What to look out for in a 1999 Mazda 626 ES Sedan?

Question

I'm buying a used car, and have chosen a 1999 Mazda 626 ES Sedan. The VIN # report checks out, and I'm wondering what defects I should be looking for. It currently has 130,000 miles on it and a clean history. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You didn't specify if it was a 2.0 or 2.5.  If it is a 2.0 be wary of the automatic transmission, and make sure the service intervals were followed (oil changes, other vital fluids, and timing belt).  If it is a 2.5 make sure the valve covers aren't leaking, and make sure the oil has been changed regularly.  

If I were you, I would try to take it into a mazda dealer and let them look it over (not free but may save you a bundle in the long run).

Answer 2

I own a 626 1998 with about 122K miles, bought it with 90K

The most important things to look at are:

Slipping transmission: Automatic transmission problems are very frequent in Mazdas 626 [1993-2000]. This should be your main concern. Avoid a defective transmission. Mine slips when changing from first to second gear and it’s certainly not pleasant. The repair is very expensive, apparently about $1,500.-

Timing Belt + Water Pump: Those need to be replaced every 60K miles. At 130K miles, they were either just been replaced or they need to be replaced  immediately. My mechanic quoted me about $350 for the job; Pepboys would be around $500, the dealer...who knows.

Axel shaft and bearing: Maybe it was because I neglected to check the seals or something, but I had to replace one side (axel shaft and bearing). Two indications of problems ahead: the handling would feel somewhat loose and you will hear a noise, like an old airplane using propellers. At the beginning the noise is almost unnoticeable, but it becomes really bad in just a few hundred miles.

It might also be time to replace the alternator…..



When buying any old car, try to budget some money to take care of the breaks, belts and hoses, transmission fluid flush & replace, oil change, tires and the rest of the usual maintenance.

Mine loses some oil, nothing bad for an old engine. In general I cannot complain about the car. I drive it on daily about 45min. on highway and it’s been reliable so far (knocking on wood).

I hope this helps….but if I were you, I would go with a Toyota or Honda, or maybe the Protégé (I heard this Mazda in particular is bulletproof)

Good luck