Table 1 shows seven common steering related problems of the 1997 Mazda 626. The number one most common problem is related to the hydraulic power assist steering system (two problems). The second most common problem is related to the steering gear box shaft pitman (one problem).
While traveling on the highway and without prior warning power steering belt fell off, causing the vehicle to shut down. Read details...
1) purchased a used '97 Mazda 626 dx, with 115000+ miles on it, supposedly in decent condition. The vehicle required a new fuel pump, so wasn't in any kind of road use until replacement. After replacing, the car seemed to work fine, but had odd 'jumps' forward in low speeds and stops (making me Read details...
Steering failed causing vehicle collision. Read details...