1998 Mazda 626

The 1998 Mazda 626

The 1998 Mazda 626 is a midsize sedan that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.0-liter inline-four that produced 125 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.5-liter V6 was also available, which produced 170 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The 626 was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and poor handling.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, loss of engine power.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start or runs roughly, loss of power, catastrophic engine failure if belt breaks while the engine is running.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover, visible oily residue on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Cam Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine runs rough, loss of power, illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace intake cam position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, delayed shifting.
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, shuddering during acceleration, overheating transmission.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from suspension, rough ride, decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from suspension, decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar link.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting, illuminated battery light.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, clicking noise from starter.
  • Solution: Replace starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks, door cannot be opened.
  • Solution: Replace door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body, frame, or suspension components.
  • Solution: Rust repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat from the heater, coolant smell in the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate, window may fall into door.
  • Solution: Repair or replace window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1998 Mazda 626 is a reliable vehicle with few major issues. However, some of the common problems can be expensive to repair, so it is important to factor these costs into your decision when purchasing a used 626.