Mazda 626
Reliability, estimated running costs, and MOT data across 7 model years from 682 MOT tests in 2024.
Avg Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests
682
Highest Pass Rate
1998 (76%)
Years Covered
7
About the Mazda 626
The Mazda 626 was MOT tested 682 times in 2024 (DVSA data, retests included) across 7 model years (1996 to 2002), with an average pass rate of 72%. That's 10 points below the average of 82% across all models in our data, so check the year-by-year data carefully before buying. Our records list petrol versions.
Best and Worst Years
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 1998 model has the highest pass rate at 76% from 139 tests. The 2000 model has the lowest at 66%. The 10 point gap means pass rates vary somewhat between years, but no year is dramatically different. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger.
Reliability Trend
Older Mazda 626s tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 8 percentage points across model years.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (1996) averages 74,421 miles, while the newest (2002) averages 74,728 miles.
Compared to the Mazda brand average of 81%, the 626 is 9 points lower, placing it among the less reliable Mazda models.
Estimated Running Costs
Higher due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year, average pump prices of 174.57p petrol and 199.33p diesel (GOV.UK weekly road fuel prices, week of 19 October 2026), and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 2002 detailsHow reliable is the Mazda 626?
Mazda 626 by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
Questions about the Mazda 626
Is the Mazda 626 reliable?
Across its 7 model years in our data (1996 to 2002), the Mazda 626 averages a 72% MOT pass rate, from 682 tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included). That's 10 points below the average of 82% across all models in the same data. The 1998 model has the highest pass rate of the years with at least 100 tests, at 76%.
Which year Mazda 626 has the best MOT pass rate?
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 1998 Mazda 626 has the highest MOT pass rate at 76%, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 66%, a 10 point gap. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger, so compare years of a similar age.
Are newer Mazda 626s more reliable?
Older Mazda 626s tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 8 percentage points across model years.
Mazda 626 Guides & Articles
Most Reliable Used Cars UK 2026 (Ranked With Real MOT Data)
11 min read
Reliability20 Most Reliable Used Cars UK 2026: Real MOT Pass Rate Rankings
10 min read
Buying GuideCars That Hold Their Value UK 2026 (Up to 78% After 3 Years)
10 min read
Buying GuideFord Fiesta Common Problems (2026): What to Check Before Buying
13 min read
ReliabilityFord Puma Common Problems: 7 Issues That Could Cost £1,500+ (2026)
13 min read
Checking a specific Mazda 626?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.