Two problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 1998 Mazda 626. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Takata recall. The transmission cd4e tranny doesn't have switch gears unless you use excessive rpm.
Since I purchased my car used from corporate motors in sacramento, calif. I always thought the transmission was slipping at 18k, this was my first one so I just figured that's how automatics drove, wrong? air conditioning went out around 30k. I've spent well over $2500 repairing the vehicle transmission wise, and now the pump is going out. I have been told the pump just can't be replaced, I will have to get another transmission, either rebuilt or a new one. I am letting it get to the point that it will drive in a dealership and never come home with me again.