Problem Reports
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1997 Mazda 626 Problems
Stalling/Starting Issues Due to Distributor Failure
Distributor failure is common, often causing the vehicle to stall and/or crank but not start.
Engine Misfire Under Load
Vehicles with a V6 engine may develop an engine misfire under load (acceleration). This can be caused by a valve cover gasket leaking oil into a spark plug well, shorting the spark plug to the cylinder head. To repair this concern, the valve cover needs to be resealed and the spark plugs and wires should be replaced.
Check Engine Light Due to Restricted EGR System
The passages for the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system can become restricted or clogged causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate. The EGR valve will need to be inspected and the passages cleaned.
Crank but No Start Condition and No Fuel Pressure
If the engine cranks but does not start, it may be caused by a tripped inertia switch. Switch the key to "ON" and the fuel pump should be heard running for a second or two. Listen at the gas filler if necessary. If you do not hear the pump the inertia switch should be reset, it will "click" when it is reset.
Transmission Failure Common
Premature automatic transmission failure is common. Diagnoses of the fault will be necessary to determine if repair or replacement is the proper repair.
Crank but No Start Condition and No Spark
If the engine cranks but will not start, it may be due a failed distributor. In the diagnosis, it may be discovered that the Electronic Engine Control (EEC) Unit is the cause if ignition spark is restored after disconnecting the Spark Output (SPOUT) Connector.
Misfires Under Load
Misfires under load (acceleration) can be caused by leaky spark plug boots. When a spark plug boot leaks, it allows the spark to arc, or jump, to the cylinder head. If evidence of arcing can be seen on the inside of the spark plug boot, new spark plug wires will be needed.