Trouble figuring out error code when turning

try checking all your electrical and electronic connections, cornering can make things shift around and puts a strain on weak connections. I'd start with the battery cables, all the harness connectors, grounds, make sure the computer module(s) are all well seated.

Thank you, i'll go through that bit by bit once i can do so :-) Meanwhile, i figured a short video would do better than a short explanation - the car is stationary, and check engine light came on initially, until i moved the wheel around with engine running (pre-video). I can't get an error code flash, and the cel only appears once the engine runs. Does the car have a power steering fluid sensor? When stationary and driving i don't have any issues, regardless of the cel appearing or not. https://youtu.be/CmESR8lMvBk

All i could get around to is seated as it should. I've noted the check engine light appears from engine start when cold, otherwise only when i put some form of strain on the steering wheel at lower rpm, and at standstill it only lights up when the rpm changes from turning the wheel.

As far as I know, the 96 Mazda 626 does have a power steering pressure sensor. From what I understand the computer will raise engine RPM based on input from the pressure switch to assist with turning. Whether that will trigger a CEL if there is a problem with it I don't know. (versus triggering a dedicated PS idiot light). Have you tried to read the codes with an OBD1 reader? You may also want to try Mazda626.net for info,