2000 Mazda 626 Problems
The 2000 Mazda 626 has 224 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls, with transmission issues dominating owner reports. Based on 224 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2000 Mazda 626 has 224 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Transmission / Drivetrain.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2000 Mazda 626 Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 4 2000 Mazda 626 trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 4 trims analysed.
2000 Mazda 626 Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
MAZDA 626 (2000) has 224 NHTSA complaints, with 161 related to transmission/drivetrain issues. Engine problems (22) and brake system complaints (14) are also common. Only 2 recalls exist. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- 626
- Model year
- 2000
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 224
- Crash-related complaints
- 6
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 22
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 19 / 25
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2000 Mazda 626 problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Engine Problems
Brake System
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Engine Problems, Brake System. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2000 Mazda 626?
The 2000 Mazda 626 is a high-risk choice due to the overwhelming number of transmission complaints. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in excellent condition and all recalls are addressed.
Transmission failures can be costly to repair, and the high complaint count suggests a systemic issue. A pre-purchase inspection is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.
May Suit
This year may suit a budget-conscious buyer willing to invest in a thorough inspection and potential transmission repairs.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a reliable daily driver or those unable to afford potential transmission repairs should avoid this year.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2000 Mazda 626
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission for slipping, hard shifting, or fluid leaks.
- Check engine for unusual noises, smoke, or check engine light.
- Examine brake pads, rotors, and fluid condition.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic perform a transmission inspection and test drive.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission, engine, and brake repairs.
- Check for any NHTSA investigations or technical service bulletins.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2000 Mazda 626, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2000 Mazda 626 shows a high volume of transmission/drivetrain complaints (161 out of 224 total). Engine problems (22) and brake system issues (14) are also notable. With only 2 recalls and low confidence due to limited data, buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2000 Mazda 626 has an unusually high number of transmission complaints, making it less desirable.
Recall context: With only 2 recalls, the recall count is low, but buyers should still verify all recalls are completed before purchase.
- Transmission/drivetrain accounts for 161 of 224 total complaints.
- Engine problems total 22 complaints.
- Brake system issues total 14 complaints.
- Transmission / Drivetrain failures are the most reported issue.
- Engine problems, including stalling and overheating.
- Brake system malfunctions, such as premature wear.
Full breakdown
All 2000 Mazda 626 complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2000 Mazda 626. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 161 | 1 | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 22 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 14 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 14 | 1 | — | — | |
| Equipment | 13 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 10 | 2 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 9 | 3 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 7 | 1 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Interior Lighting | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2000 Mazda 626. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE THE CABIN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (PERRY FORD, 440 HITCHCOCK WAY, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93105 (805) 682-2411),…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, A STRONG FUEL ODOR WAS DETECTED IN THE VEHICLE. THE ODOR WOULD DISAPPEAR SEVERAL MINUTES AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PERRY FORD OF SANTA BARBAR…
TRANSMISSION FAILURE. CAR IS PARKED, AND WON'T GO INTO GEAR. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE FOR THIS MAKE AND MODEL CAR.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLAMPS FAILED TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THERE WAS A FUEL ODOR THAT EMITTED IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE WINDOWS WERE OPENED WHEN DRIVING IN ORDER TO AVOID THE STRONG FUEL ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SEVERAL DEALERS WHERE…
AUTOMOBILE DEALER, LIBERTY PONTIAC GMC, 9028, E. INDEPENDENCE BLVD, MATHEWS, NC 28105, 704-708-8000. FINANCE COMPANY, AUTO CREDIT OF CHARLOTTE, 4410 INDEPENDENCE, CHARLOTTE, NC 28206, 704-569-9444. ACCOUNT#CH441545 THE SALVAGE TITLE NADA NOT REGISTERED AT PURCHASE $12,172.…
WHILE COMMUTING, THE CAR STOPPED SHIFTING. TOOK IT TO MECHANIC--THEY FIXED A LEAK IN THE TRANSMISSION FLUID-- CAR WAS THEN SHIFTING HARD, TOOK TO TRANSMISSION SHOP--THEY DIAGNOSED TWO PROBLEMS THAT CAUSED THE LEAK. THE TRANSMISSION IS NOT EFFECTIVELY PUSHING THE FLUID THROUGH THE…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A GARAGE, THE ODOR OF GASOLINE FUEL WAS PRESENT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT …
DRIVING IN THE HIGHWAY BUT ABRUPTLY IT SLOWED DOWN AND CAN'T SPEED UP WHILE I WAS IN THE TRAFFIC, IT WAS ALMOST BUMPED TO STOP, TERRIFYING TRUCKS WERE CHASING BEHIND ME. THIS IS A TRANSMISSION FAILURE. TERRIBLE, AND A BIG SAFETY ISSUE TOO. *TR
PURCHASED USED MAZDA 262, YEAR 2000, THAT HAPPENED TO HAVE ORIGINAL KNOWN-FAULTY CD4E. CAR NOW INOPERABLE AFTER LESS THAN A THOUSAND MILES AFTER LEAVING THE LOT. OCCASIONAL ACCEPTABLE OPERATION, INTERSPERSED WITH TRANSMISSION SLIPPING/LOSING GEAR/NO POWER, NEARLY CAUSED A REAR-EN…
TRANSMISSION OVERHEATED ON THE FREEWAY, BLEW OUT TEMPERATURE GAUGE AND NO LONGER SHIFTED AFTER THAT. SPEED SENSOR STOPPED WORKING. HAD TO GET REBUILT TRANSMISSION AND TRANSMISSION COOLER AND SEVERAL OTHER PARTS REPLACED. THE REPAIR ONLY LASTED 6 MONTHS BEFORE THE TRANSMISSION WEN…
D&M AUTOBROKERS SOLD ME A "DEATH TRAP" VEHICLE THAT COULD NOT PASS DEQ EMISSIONS TESTING. MULTIPLE THINGS KEPT GOING WRONG, AND THE DEALERSHIP HAD MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO FIX THE ISSUES. EVENTUALLY, ALL THE ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLE AND THE NUMEROUS LIES I WAS BEING FED WERE TOO OVER…
PARTS INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION BROKE ON MY 2000 MAZDA 626 2.0L. *TR
I HAVE A CONCERN WITH THE TRANSMISSION'S ON THE MAZDA 626 TRANSMISSION STYLE CD4E. THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE (INTERNET SEARCHED) WHO HAVE THESE VEHICLES AND HAVE BEEN PLACED IN DIRE STRAITS AS I AM. I WAS TRAVELING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH AND FROM OUT OF NOWHERE, MY OD STO…
WE HAVE MAZDA 626 4CYL, 2000 YR., AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE TRANSMISSION IN OUR MAZDA ALWAYS HESITATES TO SHIFT UP AND REVS UP TO VERY HIGH RPMS EVENTHOUGH THE ACCELERATION IS GRADUAL. THERE IS ALSO QUITE A BIT OF NOISE IN THE CAR COMING FROM ENGINE WHEN I AM MERGING ON …
I HAVE A 2000 MAZDA 626 AND THE TRANSMISSION IS HORRIBLE. WELL, WAS BECAUSE I HAD TO REPLACE IT. INSTEAD OF MY CAR GOING IN REVERSE WHEN I PUT IT IN REVERSE IT WENT FORWARD. MY OVERDRIVE LIGHT KEPT COMING ON AND BLINKING AND THE CODE WAS ALWAYS THE TEMPERATURE HIGH DUE TO HIGH…
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO START. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VEHICLE HAD A HISTORY OF PROBLEMS. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO PURCHASE A NEW TRANSMISSION. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 53,296. THE FAILUR…
MAZDA 1996 626 AND A MAZDA 2000 626. BOTH 4 CYL AND BOTH AUTOMATICS, AND BOTH HAVING TO HAVE TRANSMISSIONS REPLACED. LEAVES YOU STRANDED ON THE ROAD, AND CAUSES BAD SHIFTS IN SPEED BEFORE YOU STOP GOING FORWARD COMPLETELY. *TR
I HAVE A 2000 MAZDA 626 WITH THE CD4E FORD TRANSMISSION AND I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION FOR ABOUT 3 YEARS NOW. I HAVE DONE NUMEROUS RESEARCH AND TOOK IT TO MANY SHOPS AND HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THIS TRANSMISSION IS TRASH. THIS TRANSMISSION WAR POORLY BUILT…
I BOUGHT A 2000 MAZDA 626 LX FROM A NEIGHBOR, AND WITH ONLY 95K ON THE ODOMETER, THE CAR BEGAN SHIFTING ROUGH. IT DIDN'T SEEM TO CAUSE MUCH OF A PROBLEM AND I CONTINUED TO PROVIDE GENERAL MAINTENANCE FOR THE CAR. HOWEVER, I ALMOST NEVER TRAVELED OUTSIDE OF A 20 MILE RADIUS WITH T…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2000 Mazda 626.
Safety recalls
2000 Mazda 626 recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2000 Mazda 626. With only 2 recalls, the recall count is low, but buyers should still verify all recalls are completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2000 Mazda 626 buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2000 Mazda 626 reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 224 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2000 Mazda 626 is a high-risk choice due to the overwhelming number of transmission complaints. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in excellent condition and all recalls are addressed. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2000 Mazda 626?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (161 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (22 complaints). #3: Brake System (14 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2000 Mazda 626?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2000 Mazda 626?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2000 Mazda 626, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 224 total complaints. 7 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2000 Mazda 626 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2000 Mazda 626. A major recall area is FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. With only 2 recalls, the recall count is low, but buyers should still verify all recalls are completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2000 Mazda 626?▾
The 2000 Mazda 626 is a high-risk choice due to the overwhelming number of transmission complaints. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in excellent condition and all recalls are addressed. Transmission failures can be costly to repair, and the high complaint count suggests a systemic issue. A pre-purchase inspection is essential to avoid unexpected expenses. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Mazda 626 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2000 Mazda 626 based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.