2000 Mazda 626

The 2000 Mazda 626 was a mid-size sedan known for its reliability and affordability. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 producing approximately 125 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5L V6 producing approximately 170 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically appreciated the 626 for its comfortable ride, decent fuel economy, and value for money. Common dislikes included somewhat bland styling and a less sporty driving experience compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often originate from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, low oil level, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle, stalling, or difficulty starting the engine. This is often caused by a dirty or failing IAC valve.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.0L, the 2.5L V6 can experience oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, low oil level, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.5L V6 uses a distributor ignition system, and problems with the distributor (such as a failing ignition module or cap/rotor) can cause misfires, rough running, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty distributor components or the entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially between 1st and 2nd.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or in severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear or fails to engage properly, especially under load.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty torque converter. Requires diagnosis and repair, potentially a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking, or unusual noises when engaging the clutch.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. May also require resurfacing or replacing the flywheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, unusual noises when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken or worn springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow engine cranking, a battery that won’t hold a charge, and a battery warning light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows that operate slowly, intermittently, or not at all. This can be caused by a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur in various areas, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates, due to sun exposure and aging.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-existent air conditioning, often caused by a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a clogged evaporator.
  • Solution: Repairing the leak, replacing the compressor, or unclogging the evaporator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Mazda 626 is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any older car, it is prone to certain issues. Oil leaks are common across both engine options. Automatic transmission issues, particularly harsh shifting, are also frequently reported. Suspension components wear with age, leading to ride and handling problems. Electrical issues, such as alternator failure and power window malfunctions, can also occur. Rust is also a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the severity of the problem and the location, but some repairs, such as transmission work, can be expensive.