One problem related to starter has been reported for the 2001 Mazda 626. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Mazda 626 based on all problems reported for the 2001 626.
My daughter was sitting in her car when she noticed smoke coming from the wiper switch area and blinker area. The smoke smelled like burning plastic. Upon further inspection by a mechanic, it was discovered that the ignition switch was bad, causing the starter to stay engaged. The burning smell was coming from the ignition switch. I currently have the defective part as well as the receipt for the replacement part.