1994 Mazda 626

Introduction: The 1994 Mazda 626 is a mid-size sedan that comes with either a 2.0L or a 2.5L engine and either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. The 2.0L engine produces 118 horsepower and 130 ft-lb of torque, while the 2.5L engine provides 164 horsepower and 156 ft-lb of torque. Drivers appreciate the 626’s comfortable ride and spacious interior, but some have reported issues with its engine, transmission, and electrical components.

Engine

2.0L Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, misfiring, and decreased engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Engine

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A slipping or broken timing belt can cause significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Gear Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slipping out of gear or refusing to shift properly.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging or disengaging the clutch, accompanied by grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts, excessive body roll, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn ball joints can cause poor handling and increased tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, and battery discharge.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Bulb Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Burned-out tail light bulbs.
  • Solution: Replace the bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Crack:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or repair the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The Mazda 626 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some potential issues to be aware of. Engine problems, such as head gasket failure and ignition coil failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, like gear slippage and clutch failure, are also relatively common. While most electrical and suspension issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, they can still be annoying. Overall, the severity of the issues with the 1994 Mazda 626 varies, and the estimated cost to repair them can range from minor to significant.