1997 Mazda 626

Introduction

The 1997 Mazda 626 is a midsize sedan that was offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine was a 2.0-liter inline-four that produced 125 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine was a 2.5-liter V6 that produced 170 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The 626 was praised for its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power, especially with the base engine.

Engine

2.0-liter Inline-Four

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter V6

• Timing belt failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start, loud rattling noise from engine
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Synchronizer failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise when shifting
  • Solution: Replace synchronizer
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission fluid leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: ATF leaks, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid pan gasket or transmission filter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension strut mount failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mount
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorber failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncing or swaying, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorber
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Lights flickering, gauges not working, engine not starting
  • Solution: Inspect wiring and connectors, replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on underbody:
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust or corrosion on undercarriage
  • Solution: Apply rust-resistant treatment, repair or replace affected parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard material
  • Solution: Replace or repair dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Mazda 626 is a reliable and affordable midsize sedan. However, it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, timing belt failure, and rust on the underbody. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.