Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2000
Best: 2002
3 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 7 model years, the Mazda 626 has 2,016 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 20 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and engine and engine cooling. 1998 drew the most complaints (438), 2002 the fewest (88).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mazda 626 vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 1998 (438 complaints). Lowest: 2002 (88).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain.
Very sluggish or hard shifting, failure to shift out of park, complete failure requiring rebuild, often at low mileage (e.g., 85,000 miles); flashing Overdrive (O/D) Off light is a common warning sign.
Persistent overheating, coolant leaks from the reservoir, suspected clogged radiators, thermostat failures; issues often exacerbated by using air conditioning.
Intermittent turn signal failure, alternator/voltage regulator problems causing battery drain, rough idle and stalling linked to faulty sensors (MAF, O2), malfunctioning neutral safety switch.
Rough idle, stalling when cold, hesitation on acceleration, misfires; often related to fuel delivery (pump, injectors) or ignition components despite replacements.
Susceptibility to rust, particularly in older generations; noted as being rust-prone in certain climates.
Owner insights cover all generations of the 626. Individual model years are broken down above.
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