The Mazda 626, also known as the Capella, was a common sight on New Zealand roads during the 1990s. It was a popular choice for families due to its reliability, practicality, and affordability. Many were sold new or imported as used vehicles. This review focuses on the key considerations for owning and maintaining a 626/Capella in New Zealand.
Common issues to watch out for include rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and the floor pan), automatic gearbox issues (particularly in higher mileage examples), power window regulator failures, and general wear and tear due to age.
WOF tips
When getting your Mazda 626/Capella ready for its WOF, pay close attention to rust, oil leaks, coolant leaks, suspension wear (listen for noises and check for play), and the condition of the brakes (rotors, pads, and brake lines).
About the Mazda 626 D Comprex
The Mazda 626/Capella represents an era of practical and affordable Japanese cars that became a mainstay for New Zealand families. It was known for its dependability and served reliably as everyday transportation. While not a performance car, it provided a comfortable and economical ride for many.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella in New Zealand?
When inspecting your 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella, pay close attention to rust around the wheel arches, sills, and the floor pan. These areas are particularly prone to corrosion and are critical for WOF inspections.
Are there any known issues with the automatic gearbox in the 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella?
Yes, automatic gearbox issues are a common concern, especially in higher mileage examples of the 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella. It's advisable to have the transmission checked if you notice any unusual shifting or performance.
What should I look out for when preparing my 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella for its WOF in NZ?
For your 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella's WOF, focus on rust, oil leaks, coolant leaks, suspension wear (listen for noises and check for play), and the condition of the brakes, including rotors, pads, and brake lines. These are common failure points for this model.
Where can I get replacement power window regulators for my 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 69 SKUs for the 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella, and while specific power window regulators might not be listed as a direct partslot, you can check our inventory or contact us for availability. Power window regulator failures are a common issue for this model.
How often should I service my 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella?
The recommended service interval for your 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella is every 10,000km to ensure its continued reliability and address general wear and tear due to its age.
What are common signs of suspension wear on a 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella?
Common signs of suspension wear on a 1993–1996 Mazda 626/Capella include unusual noises (like clunking or squeaking) over bumps, excessive body roll, and noticeable play in the steering. These issues are important to address, especially for WOF compliance.