Three problems related to catalytic convertor have been reported for the 1997 Mazda 626. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1997 Mazda 626 lx - transmission, catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, and computer have all been repaired in a span of 11 months. The car does not have 80,000 miles on it!.
About a year ago my engine check light came on. I took it to the Mazda dealer and they said the catalytic converter was bad. It was replace because it was still under warranty. Two months ago my check engine light came on again. I was again told that my catalytic conver was bad and it was again replaced. Today I was driving on the highway at about 75 miles per hour when my o/d light began to flash on and off. Five minutes later my car started to lose power. After pulling over to the side of the road my car would not change gears. It would not go forward or in reverse. I had it towed to the Mazda dealer and I was told that the transmission was bad and that it would take $2500. 00 to be replaced.
Recall 98v206001 done in June 1999, problems with vehicle ever since, timing chain replaced a second time in October 2000. Currently vehicle is shaking, catalytic converter was replaced, dealer thought that was the problem, engine light still on, timing chain needed to be replaced a third time.