Mazda 626 Repair
One of the most prominent and significant problems encountered with the Mazda
626 are transmission failures. An indicator of this is the constant flashing of
the Overdrive light. This is a sign of an electrical problem in the transmission.
But, it could also mean that bad sensor data is reaching the transmission. Other
problems involve bad engine seals, catalytic converters, and transmission pumps.
Noise can affect most Mazda engines including the 626's. A tap-tap noise is noticeable;
this is due to the non zero-lash between cam lobe and HLA.
Another problem area identified is the air conditioner. The air conditioning
refrigerant may leak out because the steel clamp holding the aluminum pipe for
the receiver/drier creates galvanic corrosion resulting in pin holes. Unless vinyl
tape is wrapped around the pipe before installing the clamp, problems will recur
even after the pipe is replaced.
Aside from suspension and wind noise, there have also been reports of water leaks
into the taillight and brake-light housing and consequently into the trunk because
of a bad seal in the housing. A problem in the electrical causes the horn to become
inoperative in more recent 626 models. Also rough/idle hesitation during acceleration
is also encountered. To sum up, the Mazda 626 is a solidly constructed and reasonably
reliable automobile representative of Mazda's reputation of excellence. But it
doesn't mean that durability and being failsafe are its main virtues.