Mazda 626 GF
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
165 PS
2.5L V6 Benzin
V6 Gentleman
Fun to Drive!116–136 PS
2.0L 16V Benzin
7 weaknesses
Good ChoiceBody Variants
The Mazda 626 GF is available as Kombi and Limousine and Schrägheck — choose your body type for specific insurance data:
Engine Overview
The Mazda 626 GF is available with 3 engine variants — from 90 to 165 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Mazda 2.0L DiTD (Diesel, 90–101 PS) comes with 2 different engines: RF (1998–2002, Be Careful) und RF (1998–2002, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L DiTD!
The Mazda 2.0L 16V (Benziner, 116–136 PS) comes with 2 different engines: FS (1997–2002, Good Choice) und FS (1997–2002, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L 16V!
The Mazda 2.5L V6 (Benziner, 165 PS) has the KL-DE (2.5L V6) — rated: "Good Choice", 7 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Left Fuel Tank Rusting Through The left fuel tank on the 626 GF can corrode internally and develop leaks. Complete through-rust has been documented in isolated cases and requires a tank replacement. Symptoms: Fuel smell under the vehicle, fuel loss, visible dampness on the underside on the left from 120,000 km | Medium | |
| Rust on Wheel Arches, Door Folds and Tailgate Nearly all 626 GF show rust on the rear wheel arches (10 o'clock position on the wheel arch), door folds and tailgate. Poor factory sealing is the main cause. Symptoms: Blistering and rust on wheel arch edges, visible through-rust on lower door faces and tailgate folds from 80,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues
A total of 29 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda 626 GF (1997–2002) — 21 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Brakes, Electronics, Interior. Considered reliable: FS (2.0L 16V), KL-DE (2.5L V6).
626 (RF, 1998–2002) — Be Careful: Interference Engine — Engine Damage on Timing Belt Failure, Leaking Injection Pump (Solenoid Valve), Injection Driver Module (IDM) Earth Fault. Power: 90 PS.
626 (RF, 1998–2002) — Be Careful: Interference Engine — Engine Damage on Timing Belt Failure, Leaking Injection Pump (Solenoid Valve), Injection Driver Module (IDM) Earth Fault. Power: 101 PS.
What to watch out for with the Mazda 626? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda 626 GF have? +
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Which Mazda 626 GF engine is the most reliable? +
Which Mazda 626 GF engine is the most fun? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee