Mazda 626 — Specs, Problems & Recalls

Decode any Mazda 626 VIN below for the exact build from NHTSA vPIC: model year, trim, engine, transmission, drivetrain and assembly plant — plus open safety recalls and crash-test ratings, free and without registration.

Research any Mazda 626 model year

Specs, engines, MPG and open safety recalls for each production year.

Each year page has that year's specific specs, EPA MPG, NHTSA crash-test ratings and every open recall campaign filed for that year and model.

Overview
MakeMazda
Model626
Body StyleVehicle
Production YearsMultiple model years
Country of OriginJapan
Available Engines

Mazda 626 generations

Model-line generations with their production years. Each generation hub lists every model year with its data.

Generations of the Mazda 626
First gen (LA) 1979–1982
Second gen (GC) 1982–1987
Third gen (GD) 1987–1991
Fourth gen (GE) 1991–1997
Fifth gen (GF) 1997–2002

Check engine light on your Mazda 626?

Every 1996-and-newer car uses the OBD-II standard. Enter any stored code, then P0300, P0420, or search our full database of over 2,000 codes, to see what it means and how serious it is.

OBD-II code lookup →

Recent Recalls

Recall data for this model has not been ingested yet. Check the official NHTSA recall lookup or decode a specific VIN — VIN decodes always query the current NHTSA database.

Related Guides for Mazda 626 Owners & Buyers

Other Mazda Models

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decode a Mazda 626 VIN?

Enter the 17-character VIN in the box above. VinSpecs returns the exact year, trim, engine, drivetrain and assembly plant for your Mazda 626, plus any open recalls, free.

Is the Mazda 626 reliable?

Reliability varies by model year and engine, decode the VIN and check the vehicle history before buying.

How do I check the Mazda 626 for recalls?

Use our free recall checker by year, make and model, or decode a specific VIN for its exact recall status.

What should I check before buying a used Mazda 626?

Run a VIN decode + recall check here, get a NMVTIS-backed title history report to catch salvage/flood brands, then have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle on a lift. Cross-reference the seller's mileage claim against the odometer history on record.

Where is the VIN located on a Mazda 626?

The 17-character VIN is stamped in several places: visible through the windshield on the driver's-side dashboard, on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb, and on the vehicle registration and insurance card. All should match, mismatched VINs are a fraud red flag.