1999 Mazda 626

Introduction

The 1999 Mazda 626 is a mid-size sedan that was offered with two engine options: a 2.0L 4-cylinder and a 2.5L V6. The 2.0L engine produced 130 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L engine produced 170 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The 626 was a popular choice for consumers who wanted a reliable and affordable sedan. It offered a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy. However, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 2.0L Engine
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to a decrease in power and fuel economy, as well as a rough idle. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500.
  • Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. The solution is to replace the timing belt and water pump. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $700.
• 2.5L Engine
  • Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant to leak into the engine oil. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500.

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Shifting problems: The transmission may be difficult to shift into gear, or it may pop out of gear. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500.
  • No reverse: The transmission may not engage in reverse. The solution is to replace the transmission range sensor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $300.

Suspension

• Front strut mounts: The front strut mounts can fail, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps. The solution is to replace the strut mounts. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
• Rear shock absorbers: The rear shock absorbers can fail, causing the rear of the vehicle to bounce excessively. The solution is to replace the rear shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500.
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.

Exterior

• Rust: The body of the 626 can be prone to rust, especially in the wheel wells and undercarriage. The solution is to prevent rust by applying a rust-resistant coating to the affected areas. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.

Interior

• Power window failure: The power window motors can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable. The solution is to replace the window motors. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400 per window.
• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in hot climates. The solution is to replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Summary

The 1999 Mazda 626 is a reliable and affordable sedan that is known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of, including intake manifold gasket failure, timing belt failure, head gasket failure, shifting problems, slipping, no reverse, front strut mount failure, rear shock absorber failure, alternator failure, starter failure, rust, power window failure, and dashboard cracking. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can range from $200 to over $1,500.