One problem related to water pump has been reported for the 1999 Mazda 626. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Motor mounts were changed with less than 40,000 miles without having any front end damages. Covered by extended warranty. Despite regular oil changes and only 40,000 plus miles, the dealer said the engine's oil ports were clogged requiring the removal of the valve cover and oil pan to remedy the alleged problem. Cost of repairs, approx $700. Despite having the front brake pads changed and the rotors turned twice within 50,000 miles, the front wheel bearing failed and were changed. Now with 60,000 miles the engine suddenly began leaking oil from every major area: oil pan, valve cover, rear main seal, etc. , etc. , etc. In addition to those oil leak areas, one cv joint and boot is bad, the engine mounts are once again bad without any front-end damages, and the water pump is bad. There are many other items that have failed during this short period of time. Regardless of performing regularly scheduled routine service as required by the manufacturer, this vehicle far exceeds what anyone would consider to be standard failures.