I am having ignition problems with my 4 cyl. 2000 mazda 626. When I turn the key on the key stays on start causing the starter to stay running making scraping sound. Smoke comes out of the steering column leaving a burning smell. I already burn one starter and it looks like my battery is going low too.

SOURCE: Mazda 626 power steering problem

it is normal to lose your steering, bcos it it being powered by the engine,hence it can go down when the main power source dies (ENGINE)

SOURCE: rubber burning smell and smoke

It sounds like a pulley froze up. Pop the hood have someone start the car while you are looking at the pulleys, you should be able to see the problem.

SOURCE: 2001 mazda 626 4 cyl engine turns over, but won't

See about getting a fuel pressure test. Or if your bold just go ahead and change the fuel filter. If both fail you might need a fuel pump

SOURCE: How to replace Air Filter in 1998 Mazda 626, 4 Cyl

there are 2 clips and 3 studs that sit in other side simply undo clips and it should move to the direction of the clips then up

SOURCE: white smoke on start up on 1998 mazda 626

Hi
Lots of things to check
?Leaking head gasket
Does it use brake fluid
Start engine only fo a few seconds, shut down, remove all spark plugs to see which ones are fouled