2000 Mazda 626

Introduction to the 2000 Mazda 626

The 2000 Mazda 626 is a midsize sedan that offers a comfortable ride and practical features. It is offered with a choice of two engine options: a 2.0-liter inline-four and a 2.5-liter V6. Both engines are paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 2000 Mazda 626 appreciate its affordability, reliability, and spacious interior. However, some common issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include rough idling, engine stalling, and decreased fuel efficiency. The intake manifold gasket needs to be replaced. $200 - $400+
• Timing belt tensioner failure: Symptoms include a squealing noise from the engine and difficulty starting the engine. The timing belt tensioner needs to be replaced. $300 - $500
• Oil leaks from valve cover gasket: Symptoms include oil leaking from the top of the engine. The valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. $100 - $200+
• Catalytic converter failure: Symptoms include poor engine performance, increased emissions, and a strong sulfur smell from the exhaust. The catalytic converter needs to be replaced. $500 - $1000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V194000 - Fuel pump may fail
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V210000 - Side impact air bag may not deploy properly

2.5L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include rough idling, engine stalling, and decreased fuel efficiency. The intake manifold gasket needs to be replaced. $200 - $400+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine and difficulty starting the engine. The timing chain tensioner needs to be replaced. $500 - $800
• Exhaust manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include a strong exhaust smell in the cabin and decreased engine performance. The exhaust manifold gasket needs to be replaced. $150 - $300
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V194000 - Fuel pump may fail
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V210000 - Side impact air bag may not deploy properly

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears and a grinding noise. The clutch needs to be replaced. $500 - $800+
• Transmission fluid leak: Symptoms include a puddle of fluid under the car and difficulty shifting gears. The transmission fluid leak needs to be repaired. $200 - $400+

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Symptoms include delayed gear engagement and difficulty shifting gears. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. $1000 - $3000+
• Transmission fluid leak: Symptoms include a puddle of fluid under the car and difficulty shifting gears. The transmission fluid leak needs to be repaired. $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension and decreased ride quality. The strut mounts need to be replaced. $200 - $400+
• Ball joint failure: Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension and decreased ride quality. The ball joints need to be replaced. $300 - $500+
• Sway bar link failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the suspension and decreased ride quality. The sway bar links need to be replaced. $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include a battery warning light on the dashboard and difficulty starting the engine. The alternator needs to be replaced. $300 - $500+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine and a clicking noise from the starter. The starter needs to be replaced. $200 - $400+
• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine and a dim battery warning light on the dashboard. The battery needs to be replaced. $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Rust on body panels: Symptoms include bubbling paint and rust spots on the body panels. The rusted panels need to be repaired or replaced. $500 - $2000+

Interior

• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty raising or lowering the windows. The power window motor or switch needs to be replaced. $200 - $400+
• Door lock failure: Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking the doors. The door lock actuator or switch needs to be replaced. $100 - $200+
• Dashboard rattle: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the dashboard. The dashboard needs to be secured. $100 - $200+

Summary

The 2000 Mazda 626 offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience. However, it is prone to some common issues that can be costly to repair. The most significant issues include intake manifold gasket failure, transmission slipping, and suspension component failures. The severity of the issues varies, but some can impact the safety and drivability of the vehicle.