The contact stated while pulling the shifter into drive the spark plug blew out of the engine. The contact called the dealer for assistance, but they offered no free remedy. The manufacturer has not been contacted.

- Des Plaines, IL, USA

In August 2001, I purchased a brand new Mazda 626. In May 2003, I started to experience major problems with the car. At 23,000 miles, the following had to be replaced: Transmission assembly, thermostat and radiator sub-tank. At 31,000 miles, my car was in the shop for 11 days in order to replace the following: Mass air flow sensor, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, valve idle air control, thermostat gasket and the throttle body gasket. Now at 48,000 miles, I returned from a trip, got in my car and started driving. After a couple of minutes, I noticed that the thermostat was really hot, then the engine light came on and immediately the car died and started smoking (left my husband and myself stranded on the 405 fwy at midnight). I was told I need a new engine (engine long block, all water hoses, radiator, knock sensor, gasket set and spark plugs). The cost: $8400. They offered to reduce the cost to $5200, however I don't see how this is helpful for the car is probably worth less than that and even if they did replace the parts I have no doubt that they would just start falling apart again. I drive my car less than 10 miles a day, so I definitely do not think that all this damage is from normal wear and tear, rather I believe that Mazda is making inferior parts.

- Sherman Oaks, CA, USA

Vehicle stalled several times while driving. Also, water leaked into sun roof. Last week the car stalled. Towed it to marlin Mazda. Consumer had to pay $65 for a new battery.consumer cancelled warranty, stating sludge in engine. That was a lie. Towed vehicle to ocean Mazda, they did not find sludge. They said they could not fix it because warranty wa scancelled by marlin Mazda (code W8). Ocean Mazda said this code did not exist. This car was purchased new 03/2001. My factory warranty was for 3 years or 50,000 miles. Consumer only had 38,000 miles and an extended warranty.

- Miami, FL, USA