As well as other 626's my transmission has blown. Was driving it, down the road, then the check engine light flashed about 7 times, and it revved, then went down and revved with the check engine light. Took it to aamco transmissions and they drove it and looked and told me that its shot. Of course this all happens after spending $1200 for a dealer only catalytic converter. Why would anyone buy this car knowing that they fall apart, and have dealer only parts!?

- Dallas, TX, USA

The contact owns a 2001 Mazda 626. On approximately November 22, 2007, while driving 60 mph, the check engine light illuminated. The dealer stated that the catalytic converter failed. The manufacturer agreed to pay half of the replacement cost for the catalytic converter. On approximately October 15, 2006, (15,000 miles later) the engine shut down and the vehicle was towed. The catalytic converter was replaced again. The contact requested information as to whether the catalytic converter was flawed. The dealer stated that this type of failure was rare and the cause could not be explained. The failure mileage was 69,000 and current mileage was 84,000.

- Conroe, TX, USA

The engine light on my car has recently come on, and goes off periodically also. I took it to have the problem diagnosed and the mechanic said it was the the catalytic converter & O2 sensors on my 2001 626 4.0 cylinder. He said the catalytic converter had to be bought from Mazda only and it was $672, and the 2 O2 sensors would be $416 as well.....is there anyone else who've had these problems"?? also, is there a warranty on the converter?"

- Columbia, MD, USA

My transmission had to be replaced on my 2001 Mazda 626 this week. I had a previous problem with the internal coolant in 2003 which also cost me money. Last week I had to replace the catalytic converter. This car has given me nothing but problems since I've owned it. I do not feel the problems I've been having should occur in a 2001 automobile when regular maintenance is kept up.

- Largo, MD, USA

Vehicle: Mazda 626 2001. The engine light has kicked on numerous times while driving at a 35-40mph. Mechanics indicate that the code references the one of two problems- oxygen sensor defect or catalyst inefficiency. But, because the code is not specific as to which piece is defective the only recourse is to drive the vehicle and if the engine light turns off don't worry or bring the vehicle back if the light continues to stay on. I have continued to drive the vehicle and of course the light turns itself off. I return to the service station when the light turns back on. This problem has been occurring over a two month time span. I have not had any work done to "solve" the problem because no one knows what the problem may be. This is not a valid answer. The engine light would not activate if there is "no problem". please provide assistance. If you are having this problem please file a complaint.

- Lexington, KY, USA