Category:
Mid-size Station Wagon
Segment Competitors:
Toyota Camry Wagon, Honda Accord Wagon, Subaru Outback, Nissan Altima Wagon.
Target Audience:
Families seeking practical, reliable, and affordable transportation with good cargo capacity, as well as DIY mechanics and independent repair shops.
Key Advantages:
Mazda's reputation for engaging driving dynamics, practical interior space, and generally good reliability for its era.
Vehicle Focus:
Practicality, versatility, and a balance of comfort and handling.
Engine:
Internal combustion engine systems, including maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline variants.
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection, and exhaust systems, including emission controls and diagnosis.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, clutch replacement, and torque converter procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including CV joints, driveshafts, and differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment, and troubleshooting.
Steering:
Power steering system operation, maintenance, and repair, including steering gear and pump.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems, including front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, and master cylinder.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the 12V electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, and underbody components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, service, and component replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for virtually all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for electrical, mechanical, and HVAC issues.
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and adjustment procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including lighting, engine controls, and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system tracing.
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (with overdrive)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Lock-up torque converter
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific Mazda/Ford specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-M III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Length:
Approx. 4,665 mm (183.7 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1,755 mm (69.1 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,615 mm (103.0 inches)
Front Track:
Approx. 1,495 mm (58.9 inches)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1,485 mm (58.5 inches)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 453 Liters (16.0 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1,558 Liters (55.0 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,350 - 1,450 kg (2,976 - 3,197 lbs)
NHTSA Front Driver:
Not extensively rated in modern standards; typical for its era.
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Not extensively rated in modern standards; typical for its era.
ABS:
Available (Standard on some trims, optional on others)
Traction Control:
Rarely fitted as standard, may be available on higher trims or optional.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
Standard ISOFIX/LATCH on rear seats.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Recommend NGK or equivalent.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-4 years. Use Mazda Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific Mazda power steering fluid.
Common Wear Items:
CV axle boots, front control arm bushings, oxygen sensors, catalytic converter, radiator, rear wheel bearings.
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues can occur due to aging wiring harnesses and connections.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Automatic transmissions may develop harsh shifting due to worn solenoid packs or fluid degradation.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one) emphasizing driver engagement and harmonious feel.
Generation:
Third generation Mazda 626 (1991-1997) and Fourth generation (1997-2002). This 1999 model falls into the latter.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Ford Telstar in many markets, reflecting Mazda's then-affiliation with Ford.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Hofu Plant), also potentially other Mazda or Ford assembly plants globally.
Model Discontinuation:
The 626 model line was eventually replaced by the Mazda6 (Atenza in Japan) in 2002.
