🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

626 Station Wagon

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

GF

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Mazda 626 Station Wagon, part of the GF generation, was positioned as a reliable and practical family vehicle, competing in the mid-size station wagon segment against rivals like the Toyota Camry Wagon, Honda Accord Wagon, and Subaru Legacy Wagon.

Competitive Analysis:

The 626 offered a blend of Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics (though less pronounced in the wagon), comfortable ride, and practical cargo space. It was known for its build quality and value proposition, aiming to offer a more engaging driving experience than some of its more comfort-oriented competitors.

Key Features:

Practical wagon body style, available AWD on some later GF models (though less common in '98), comfortable interior, fuel-efficient engines, Mazda's reputation for reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L (FS-DE) and 2.5L (GR-ZE) engines

Transmission Coverage:

5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic

Body Style Coverage:

Station Wagon (Wagon)

Region Coverage:

Global (specific to the GF platform generation)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), starting and charging system, sensors and actuators, ECU (Engine Control Unit)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanism, gear ratios, overhaul procedures

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, transmission hydraulic system, valve body, planetary gear sets, overhaul procedures

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD), CV joints, driveshafts, differentials

Suspension:

Front struts, rear independent suspension (multi-link or struts depending on specific variant), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion), steering column, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on trim), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic system, service procedures

Electrical System General:

Battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, glass, sunroof (if applicable), chassis components, rust prevention

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, blower motor, controls

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, hangers

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Fault codes (OBD-I/OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement

Engine Repair:

Engine tune-ups, timing belt replacement, head gasket repair, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, complete engine rebuild

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, automatic transmission fluid flush, internal transmission component repair, seal replacement

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement, wheel alignment

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake fluid flush, ABS bleeding procedures

Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:

Wiring harness repair, component testing, sensor replacement, starter and alternator testing

Body Work And Restoration:

Panel replacement, door adjustment, glass replacement, rust repair techniques

HVAC System Service:

Refrigerant recharge, component replacement (blower motor, compressor), leak detection

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing and digital viewing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement And Code:

2.0L (1998cc) FS-DE Inline-4; 2.5L (2497cc) GR-ZE V6 (less common on wagons, more prevalent in sedans)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 118 hp @ 5,200 rpm

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 133 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Horsepower 2.5L:

Approx. 168 hp @ 6,000 rpm (typically for sedans, may vary if offered in wagons)

Torque 2.5L:

Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (typically for sedans)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane)

Timing Belt Maintenance:

Crucial maintenance item, recommended replacement interval typically 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, often featured 'Sport' and 'Normal' modes.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF MV or equivalent (check manual for exact spec, often Dexron III/Mercon compatible)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,720 mm (185.8 in) for Wagon

Width:

Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 in) for Wagon

Cargo Volume:

Significant cargo capacity with rear seats folded down, typical for its class (exact cubic feet varies)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,400-1,500 kg (3,086-3,307 lbs) depending on engine and transmission

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,615 mm (103.0 in)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 (5 lug, 4.5 inch pattern)

Recommended Tire Size:

195/65R15, 205/55R16 (check specific trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific crash test data for 1998 models may be limited, but generally considered safe for its era. Check for recalls.

Active Safety Features:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, Traction Control System (TCS) on some higher trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, side impact door beams, collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional). Manual climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS and optional TCS were the primary driver assistance features. Cruise control was standard or optional depending on trim.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; typically featured power windows, power locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact details).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical interval, typically 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Check manual or VIN for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Check for wear and fluid level, replace as needed (typically every 50,000-100,000 miles).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Mazda genuine coolant or equivalent (usually green).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues:

Engine oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), alternator failure, power steering pump leaks, AC compressor issues, minor electrical glitches, rear main seal leaks (on higher mileage vehicles), exhaust manifold cracks (less common).

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, and worn struts are common due to age and mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, known for its innovative engineering and sporty image, even in practical segments.

Model Evolution:

The 1998 model is part of the third generation (GF/GW) of the Mazda 626, which ran from 1992 to 1997, and was succeeded by the Capella (Japan) / Cronos (international) platform which eventually evolved into the Mazda 6.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the '98 wagon might be scarce, the GF generation 626 generally received praise for its reliability and value in its segment during its production run.