Before you buy
This 2001 Mazda 626 has 190 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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2001 Mazda 626 Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 4 2001 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.
2001 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 (2001) has 190 NHTSA complaints, with 141 related to transmission and drivetrain issues. There is 1 recall and 10 crash-related complaints. Buyers should prioritize a transmission inspection before purchase. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- 626
- Model year
- 2001
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 190
- Crash-related complaints
- 10
- Safety recall campaigns
- 1
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 22
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 19 / 25
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2001 Mazda 626 problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Engine Problems
Equipment
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Engine Problems, Equipment. 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 2001 Mazda 626?
The 2001 Mazda 626 may be a budget-friendly option, but the high number of transmission complaints warrants caution. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in good condition.
Transmission repairs can be costly, and the high complaint count suggests a pattern that could lead to unexpected expenses.
May Suit
This year may suit a buyer comfortable with higher maintenance risk or who can verify a well-maintained transmission history.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a worry-free, low-maintenance vehicle should avoid this year due to the transmission complaint volume.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2001 Mazda 626
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission for slipping, hard shifting, or leaks.
- Check engine for unusual noises, stalling, or check engine light.
- Verify airbag system operation and recall status.
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 and engine repairs.
- Check for any airbag-related recalls or warning lights.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2001 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 2001 Mazda 626 shows a high volume of transmission and drivetrain complaints (141 out of 190). With only one recall and low confidence due to limited data, buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the transmission. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Without data on other years, this 2001 model stands out for its transmission complaints, but comparison is limited.
Recall context: One recall indicates a known issue, but the low recall count does not reflect the high complaint volume.
- Transmission and drivetrain account for 141 of 190 total complaints.
- Engine problems total 21 complaints.
- Airbag malfunctions account for 11 complaints.
- Transmission and drivetrain failures are the most reported issue.
- Engine problems are the second most common complaint.
- Airbag malfunctions are a notable safety concern.
Full breakdown
All 2001 Mazda 626 complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2001 Mazda 626. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 141 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 21 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 15 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 11 | 10 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 6 | — | 3 | — | |
| Tire Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 5 | 2 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 3 | — | 2 | — | |
| Structural Problems | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Other | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related 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 2001 Mazda 626. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER FUEL WAS ADDED TO THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE SEIZED AND WOULD NOT ENGAGE. THE ENGINE WOULD OPERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS TAPPED. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE SPORADICALLY STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS UNSUR…
MY DAUGHTER WAS SITTING IN HER CAR WHEN SHE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE WIPER SWITCH AREA AND BLINKER AREA. THE SMOKE SMELLED LIKE BURNING PLASTIC. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION BY A MECHANIC, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS BAD, CAUSING THE STARTER TO STAY ENGAGED. …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, AND SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A TURN INTO A PARKING LOT, THE STEERING WHEEL EMITTED SMOKE AND BURST INTO FLAMES. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, BUT DID NOT FILE A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S …
OUR MAZDA 2001 TRIBUTE HAS BEEN LEAKING BRAKE FLUID AND MECHANIC SAID IT MAY BE SOMETHING WITH MASTER CYLINDER. AFTER SEARCHING THE INTERNET I FOUND MAZDA HAD A RECALL (#6712A) THAT COVERED 2001-2002 MODEL YEAR TRIBUTE SUVS FOR A FAULTY BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP. WE C…
I HAVE PUT SO MUCH MONEY IN THIS CAR. ALTERNATOR, TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, TIRES AND BALL JOINTS. NOW THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER NEEDS REPLACED, WIPER MOTOR AND QUARTER PANELS ARE ALL RUSTED OUT. I AM DISABLED AND THIS IS MY ONLY TRANSPORTATION. SHOULD ALL OF THIS SHOULD OF GONE WRONG?…
TRANSMISSION O/D LIGHTS FLASHING AND DOES NOT MOVE IN THE FIRST GEAR OR SHIFT TO SECOND EITHER HAS HAPPENED ON FREE WAY ALSO WHICH IS VERY DANGEROUS. MY WIFE DRIVES WITH KIDS. *TR
THIS CAR STARTED HAVING DIFFICULTY WITH GOING INTO REVERSE. FORWARD IS BECOMING DIFFICULT ALSO. TWO DIFFERENT MECHANICS INDICATE THAT IT IS THE TRANSMISSION. THEY NOTE THAT CHANGING THE TRANSMISSION FLUID MAY GIVE TEMPORARY RELIEF BUT THE REAL PROBLEM IS I NEED A NEW TRANSMISS…
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON DC JUNE 19TH 2012, I WAS WITH MY MOTHER AND PARTNER PARKING IN FRONT OF GIANT SUPERMARKET RETURNING A MOVIE AT LOCAL REDBOX, WHILE WAITING FOR MY PARTNER, I TURNED OFF THE CAR, SITTING INSIDE NOTICED DENSE FUMES CAME FROM THE IGNITION, I REMOVED THE…
TRAVELING IN CAR ON INTERSTATE IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE USING CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 70MPH. WAS COMING UP ON A CAR AND TAPPED THE BRAKE TO DISENGAGE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE CAR DID NOT DISENGAGE. I TRIED TO USE THE BRAKE AND IT WAS NOT WORKING AND WENT TO THE FLOOR. I COULD NOT SHUT …
I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED A YEAR AGO THIS MONTH WHEN MY DAUGHTERS CAR ENGINE LOCKED UP. SHE WAS OUT OF STATE SO IT WAS A HURRY UP THING OVER THE PHONE. SHE DIDN'T REALIZE THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING IN FIRST GEAR, THOUGHT IT WAS CV JOINT. SHOP DIAGNOSED THE TRANSMISSION. THIS …
THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2001 MAZDA 626 I4 HAS FAILED TWICE. THE FIRST TIME IT FAILED AT 118,000 MILES WHILE I WAS ACCELERATING FROM A STOP AT A INTERSECTION ALMOST CAUSING AN SERIOUS ACCIDENT WITH THE CARS BEHIND ME. AFTER HAVING THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT FOR 2K THE TRANSMISSION …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626LX. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH WHEN THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SLIP WITH SEVERE HESITATION. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY TWO DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS DEFECTIVE AND WOULD…
I OWN A 2001 MAZDA 626. WHILE THE CAR IS 9 YEARS OLD, IT HAS ONLY 72,000 MILES ON IT. THE PROBLEM I'VE HAD WITH IT IS THAT THE SHIFTER CABLE KEEPS FAILING ON IT. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS AND POTENTIALLY FATAL THING THAT KEEPS HAPPENING. IT HAS FAILED 3 TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEA…
2001 MAZDA 626. TRANSMISSION SHIFTING CABLE FALLS OFF SHIFT LEVER ON TRANSMISSION. ONCE OCCURS, CAN NOT SHIFT OUT OF WHATEVER POSITION YOU ARE IN AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. MAZDA SELLS A NEW CABLE KIT WITH NEW/ADEQUATE CABLE TO TRANSMISSION CONNECTION DEVICE ($180). YOU CAN N…
O/D LIGHT BLINKING, WONT STOP, CANNOT ENGAGE OR DISENGAGE O/D FUNCTION. *TR
O/D LIGHT FLASHING, AND GEARS SLIPPING. *TR
MY 2001 626 (4 CYLINDER) TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AT UNDER 81,000 MILES!!!! THE ONLY WARNING SIGN WAS IT WOULDN'T SHIFT INTO REVERSE ONE DAY, THEN BOOM, IT BARELY MOVED FORWARD AGAIN. I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR AND I HAVE MOSTLY OWNED MAZDA'S SO IMAGINE MY …
THE TRANSMISSION ON MY 01 MAZDA 626 IS BROKEN. IT WON'T SHIFT FROM THIRD TO FOURTH GEAR. I KNOW THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH ALMOST EVERY 626 THAT HAS A CD4E TRANSMISSION. SO THE TRANSMISSION IS OBVIOUSLY DEFECTIVE. *TR
I OWN A 2001 MAZDA 626 4 CYL. MY CAR'S TRANSMISSION USUALLY RUNS IN THIRD GEAR ON LONG TRIPS AND DOESN'T SHIFT TO THE OVER DRIVE. ALSO, THERE IS A DELAY WHEN SHIFTING FROM SECOND TO THIRD AND FROM THIRD TO OVERDRIVE. IT WORKS FINE SHIFTING FROM FIRST TO SECOND GEAR. THIS IS A REA…
2001 MAZDA 626 4 CYLINDER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE CAR WILL NOT DRIVE ANYMORE. AFTER DRIVING IT FOR A DISTANCE OF 60 MILES ONE DAY, I PARKED IT, TRIED TO START DRIVING IT AGAIN AND IT WOULDN'T GO. *TR
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2001 Mazda 626.
Safety recalls
2001 Mazda 626 recalls
1 campaignNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2001 Mazda 626. One recall indicates a known issue, but the low recall count does not reflect the high complaint volume. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2001 Mazda 626 buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2001 Mazda 626 reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 190 owner complaints, 10 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign for this model year. The 2001 Mazda 626 may be a budget-friendly option, but the high number of transmission complaints warrants caution. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in good condition. 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 2001 Mazda 626?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (141 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (21 complaints). #3: Equipment (15 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2001 Mazda 626?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2001 Mazda 626?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2001 Mazda 626, NHTSA complaints include 10 crash-related reports and 4 fire reports out of 190 total complaints. 11 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2001 Mazda 626 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 1 NHTSA recall campaign affect the 2001 Mazda 626. A major recall area is FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. One recall indicates a known issue, but the low recall count does not reflect the high complaint volume. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2001 Mazda 626?▾
The 2001 Mazda 626 may be a budget-friendly option, but the high number of transmission complaints warrants caution. Only consider if a mechanic confirms the transmission is in good condition. Transmission repairs can be costly, and the high complaint count suggests a pattern that could lead to 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 2001 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.