Mazda Protege problems
The Mazda Familia (Japanese: マツダ ファミリア, Matsuda Famiria), also marketed prominently as the Mazda 323, Mazda Protegé and Mazda Allegro, is a small family car that was manufactured by Mazda between 1963 and 2003. The Familia line was replaced by the Mazda3/Axela for 2004.
It was marketed as the Familia in Japan, which means "family" in Latin. For export, earlier models were sold with nameplates including: "800", "1000", "1200", and "1300". In North America, the 1200 was replaced by the Mazda GLC, with newer models becoming "323" and "Protegé". In Europe, all Familias sold after 1977 were called "323".
The Familia was also rebranded as the Ford Laser and Ford Meteor in Asia, Oceania, Southern Africa, some Latin American countries and, from 1991, as the Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer in North America. In addition, the Familia name was used as the Mazda Familia Wagon/Van, a badge-engineered version of the Nissan AD wagon (1994–2017) and Toyota Probox (2018–present).
Mazda Familias were manufactured in the Hiroshima Plant and also assembled from "knock-down kits" in various countries including Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Colombia, and New Zealand. Some of these plants kept manufacturing the Familia long after it was discontinued at home.
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Mazda Protege model years
Common Mazda Protege problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mazda Protege, several common problems have been reported. These issues encompass various aspects of the vehicle, including the engine, brakes, airbags, powertrain, and more. Here is a detailed list of the common problems with the Mazda Protege based on owner complaints:
- Brake and Caliper Issues:
- Common complaints involve caliper and brake issues, particularly in the 2002 Protege model, with reports of three complaints related to this problem.
- Powertrain Problems:
- The 2000 Mazda Protege has been reported to have several powertrain issues, including automatic transmission problems like the accelerator pedal sticking, transmission seizing, and non-deployment of airbags leading to accidents.
- Electrical System Concerns:
- The 2002 Protege model has been associated with electrical system issues, including problems with the transmission such as rough shifting, hesitation, gear locking, and high-pitched noises, affecting its reliability.
- Safety Issues - Airbags and Seat Belts:
- Reports highlight safety concerns with airbags and seat belts in the 2000 and 2002 Protege models. Non-deployment of airbags during collisions and seat belt latch failures have been documented, leading to serious injuries and accidents.
- Mechanical Problems:
- The 1999 Mazda Protege is flagged for severe safety and mechanical issues, with complaints and recalls related to these concerns. Specific details of these mechanical issues are not provided but are significant enough to warrant avoidance of this model year.
These common problems reported by Mazda Protege owners underscore the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance to address potential issues and ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Are Mazda Proteges reliable?
Many users say that their Mazda Protégés are fairly reliable, though they do need to take them in for maintenance more regularly than once per year in many cases. However, this isn't terribly surprising given the fact that the last Mazda Protégé was created in 2003.
How long can a Mazda Protege last?
One of the key features of the Mazda Protege is its robust and durable engine. Many owners report that these cars can run smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles with regular maintenance and care.
What was the problem with the 2001 Mazda Protege?
Most Common 2001 Mazda Protege Problems
An electrically shorted air flow sensor can cause a crank-no start condition. diagnosis may show that ignition spark... The timing belt tensioner pulley may make a squealing noise from the timing cover area on cold startup.
What year did they stop making the Mazda Protege?
Interior room is spacious for a small sedan and includes a fairly comfortable rear seat. A four-door hatchback/wagon, called the Protegé5, joined the line. Large fog lights, wide tires, and exaggerated bodywork lend it a sportier appearance. It was discontinued after the 2003 model year, replaced by the Mazda 3.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Protege years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Protege cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Protege model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Protege model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Protege years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Protege car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Protege , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Protege vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Protege model years
A total of 199 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Protege model years
There were a total of 27 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Protege model years
There were a total of 223 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Protege model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1198 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Protege . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Protege vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Protege 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1411W0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Straight-on, front-end collision occurred, that destroyed radiator and folded hood. Air bag did not deploy.
Mazda Protege 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-16
- VIN: JM1BJ222710
- Components: SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: EVERY TIME I GO TO FASTEN MY SEAT BELT INTO THE BUCKLE, IT'S ALWAYS UNBUCKLING IT SELF. THIS HAPPENS IN STATIONARY AND IN MOTION. MY RADIOS SCREEN CANT BE SEEN OR READ. THE VISOR ON THE CAR BROKE OFF AND NOTHING WAS PULLING IT.
Mazda Protege 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-22
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-16
- VIN: JM1BJ246231
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE AND TIMING BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE ENGINE WAS TAKEN APART AND THE MECHANIC FOUND A SCREW INSIDE OF THE INTAKE VALVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 188,000.
Mazda Protege 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-02
- VIN: JM1BJ246731
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ROUGH IDLE CAUSING TO STALL WHILE DRIVING, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON FOR CYLINDER MISFIRE, FOUND CYLINDER 4 WITH A BENT SPARK PLUG WITH THE GAP CLOSED. REPLACED ALL 4 PLUGS CAR RAN FINE FOR A FEW MONTHS ONLY TO HAVE THE SAME ISSUE CYLINDER MISFIRE WITH CYLINDER 4 WITH ANOTHER BENT PLUG GAP CLOSED. POSSIBLE SOMETHING LOOSE INSIDE CYLINDER 4 CAUSING THE MISFIRE ISSUES TO THE PLUG. MILEAGE 130,280
Mazda Protege 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-27
- Date Complaint: 2019-11-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2221Y0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TODAY WE GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT AND THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DIDN'T COME OUT UNTIL AFTER MY GRANDAUGHTER'S FACE HIT THE WINDSHEILD.
Mazda Protege 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-30
- VIN: JM1BJ226631
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE WOULD NOT PASS 2019 VIRGINIA SAFETY INSPECTION DUE TO DEFECTIVE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG. DEALER CANNOT REPLACE BECAUSE MAZDA HAS DISCONTINUED THAT PART. UNDER VIRGINIA LAW, CAR CANNOT BE OPERATED WITHOUT VALID INSPECTION CERTIFICATE. INSPECTION DISCLOSED NO OTHER DISQUALIFYING CONDITIONS.
Mazda Protege 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-07
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-12
- VIN: JM1BJ225721
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: BULGES ON SIDEWALLS OF BOTH PASSENGER TIRES. TIRES ARE 6 MONTHS OLD AND ONLY HAVE APPROXIMATELY 3,000 MILES.
Mazda Protege 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-13
- Date Complaint: 2018-04-14
- VIN: JM1BJ2223Y0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR GOES IN AND OUT OF OD BY ITS SELF AND THE OD BUTTON DOES NOT WORK WHILE IM DRIVING AND THE OD LIGHT FLASHES WHEN IT GOES ON AAND STOP WHEN IT DEACTIVATES IT SELF
Mazda Protege 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-18
- Date Complaint: 2018-04-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2213Y0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I DROVE THE CAR FOR 2 MILES AND THE LEFT UNDERSIDE OF THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE, NOW THE ENGINE IS DEAD AND IN NEED OF A NEW ENGINE?
Mazda Protege 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-19
- Date Complaint: 2018-04-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2213Y0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: AFTER DRIVING 2 MILES OR LESS THE RIGHT UNDERSIDE OF THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE AND NOW THE ENGINE IS BLOWN.
Mazda Protege 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2018-02-13
- VIN: JM1BJ2229X0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE PLASTIC DIP STICK TO CHECK OIL SNAPPED OFF
Mazda Protege 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2017-12-05
- VIN: JM1BJ225031
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: EXCESSIVE WEAR IN THE AREA INSIDE AND OUTSIDE IN TIRES ... MANY SEVERAL WORKSHOPS CAN NOT CORRECT THE ALIGNMENT FAULT ... THE STEERING WHEEL GO TO THE RIGHT AND I HAVE TO FORCE TO THE LEFT ... ALL THE FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION PART ARE NEW , INCLUDING THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS NEW AND CONTROL ARM AND LINK ROD AND BUSHING ...THE CENTRIC BOLT NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE ...I SEE OVER ETHERNET MANY PEOPLE HAS THE SAME FAIL IN THIS CAR ..I BUY THIS CAR NEW AND NEVER CRASHED OR OR MISTREATED ..I REPORT THIS IN THIS YEAR BECAUSE PEOPLE HAVE TOLD ME IT'S A MANUFACTURING FAULT..AND I HAVE HAD TOO MUCH EXPENSES AND I CAN NOT SOLVE ... RIGHT NOW I NEED TO BUY OTHER TIRES...PLEASE I NEED A SOLUTION ...I SEND A ETHERNET PHOTO AND THE CAR AND COLOR IS SAME ...TO REMEMBER THE MILLEAGE VALOR AND YEAR PRESENTED IN THE NEXT QUESTION IN THIS FORM IS APPROXIMATED ...THANK YOU I WAIT YOU RESPONSE
Mazda Protege 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2017-10-24
- VIN: JM1BG226XR0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT ON DRIVER SIDE DID NOT RETRACT COMPLETELY WHEN VEHICLE WAS OFF AND DOOR WAS OPENED. SEAT BELT ONLY RETRACTED 1/3 OF THE WAY AND STAYS THERE. SEAT BELT STILL RETRACTS BACK TO SHOULDER POSITION WHEN KEY IS TURNED.
Mazda Protege 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2017-09-10
- VIN: JM1BJ246921
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE SECURITY ALARM FEATURE BECOMES ACTIVATED AND WILL NOT DEACTIVATE WITH EITHER THE KEY FOB, THE IGNITION KEY, DISCONNECTING THE BATTERY, OR PULLING THE INTERNAL IGNITION/ALARM FUSE. THIS PREVENTS THE CAR FROM BEING STARTED AND DRIVEN FOR INDETERMINATE PERIODS OF TIME. THIS HAPPENS AFTER THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY, AND ALL THE DOORS ARE LOCKED, NO MATTER BY WHAT METHOD. THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE CAUSED THE CAR'S ALARM SYSTEM TO BECOME ACTIVATED WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING GREAT CONCERN THAT SOMETHING MAY SHORT OUT IN THE ENGINE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY.
Mazda Protege 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2017-08-28
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT SYSTEM HAS FAILED. HAD TO UNPLUG BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT BELT MOTORS, BECAUSE THE SEATBELT LOCK WOULDN'T STOP TRYING TO MOVE WHILE IN DRIVE.
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Protege
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 35 recalls for different components of the Mazda Protege.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Protege 1996
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
- Model: Mazda Protege 1990
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
- Model: Mazda Protege 1997
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
- Model: Mazda Protege 1992
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
- Model: Mazda Protege 1998
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
Latest negative Mazda Protege car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Protege car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1994
I bought this car when I was 15 for $800, and it still runs perfectly even now that I'm 20. The air conditioning is still working great, and I only had to replace the clutch once, which only cost me $300 thanks to my amazing mechanic. Other than that, this car is fantastic! It's a DX, 1.8 DOHC, manual 5-speed transmission. A couple of months ago, my muffler fell off, probably because there was a big hole, but even though it's always been loud, it's still going strong. It never had a passenger side mirror, but I managed just fine. This is truly the best car ever! I recently bought a new Mazda 3 because it was a great deal, not because I needed a new car, but I will always keep my Protege. It has 230,000 miles on it now, and I will NEVER get rid of it.
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Vehicle year: 1994
Wow, it's amazing to hear that you've had your Mazda Protege for 7 years and it's still going strong! You bought it with 98000 miles on it and now it has an impressive 270,000 miles. It's great to hear that you've only had to replace the alternator once, the battery once, and the radiator hoses twice. Those sound like simple problems with simple fixes. Even after being in a wreck a few months ago, you still drive it around town for the hell of it before your insurance runs out. It's truly a testament to the quality of the car that it still does 120 mph and gets 30 mpg. You must have a lot of great memories with it. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2002
I bought my 02 Protege ES new and it was a fantastic car! It was so much fun to drive and had excellent handling. The performance was great and it was also very comfortable. The gas mileage was decent and it had great safety features. I had the dealer find me an ES that had the ABS/Side Airbags/Power Sunroof package. On the highway, it got around 32 mpg and in the city, it got low 20's. The transmission shifted smoothly and easily, and the engine revved up quickly and offered decent power. The real treat with this car is the handling, it's fantastic, and especially nice with the sleeper looks. It feels a lot faster and sportier than it is. I only had to replace the front brakes at 70k, 2 sets of tires, and oil changes. No problems in 115K.
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Vehicle year: 2002
In November 2002, I purchased my 2002 Mazda Protege and I have been absolutely delighted with it ever since. With 86,700 miles on the clock, the interior still looks as good as new and I have never had any problems with it. In fact, I loved it so much that I bought a second one! My previous Mazda Protege, a 1998 manual, was also a fantastic car that I drove for an impressive 134,000 miles without ever having to change the gear shift. Unfortunately, in June 2010, I was rear-ended on the highway while driving my beloved car. Although it suffered $1,160 worth of damage, it still drives like a dream. While I have considered buying a new Mazda, I am a bit nervous about all the electrical problems that seem to plague modern cars. It seems like cars just aren't made the way they used to be. So, for now, I think I'll hold on to my baby!
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Vehicle year: 1994
I have owned this car for six years and it has been a great ride. I bought it used with 21,000 miles on the odometer and it has never needed any repairs. It's perfect for driving around town, although it may be a bit too small for longer trips. The fuel economy is excellent and it is peppy and very responsive. All in all, it's been an excellent car.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Protege?
Hudson Prohaska 2025-11-21
Vehicle year: 2001
This car works marvelously! The steering and brakes are unparalleled in this class, even surpassing the Altima and Solara. While the car may feel a bit underpowered, the aforementioned features more than make up for it. However, it is worth noting that some of the smaller, luxurious details are lacking, such as the 3-speed wiper, vanity lights, and armrest. If you are considering this car, it is important to understand that you are paying the same or more than the Corolla or Sentra, but for the exceptional steering and brakes. If you can live without the extra power and luxury features, you will absolutely love the ES!!!
Joaquin O'Hara 2025-11-18
Vehicle year: 2001
The Protege's good looks and performance did not align with its reliability, unfortunately. The engine required replacement due to a rod bearing issue at 80k, and the transmission needed repair at 81k. Additionally, the rear brakes had to be replaced three times and the rear links twice, with the fronts being replaced once, all by the time the car reached 94k. A strut also failed at 85k. Despite being under warranty, both the dealer and Mazda have avoided taking responsibility for these issues. Overall, this purchase has been very disappointing.
Hyman Brekke 2025-11-12
Vehicle year: 1995
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 95 Mazda DX. I've been driving it every day since I bought it with 118,000 miles on it. I've taken good care of it by having the timing belt, water pump, and belts changed, as well as having a new clutch installed. Now, with 184,000 miles on it, it still drives great and gets amazing mileage of about 34-36 mpg. While it may not be the fastest car out there, it's perfect for me. I do have to admit that the cup holders and stereo are a bit too close together, and it can be a bit loud inside at times. I've also had to replace the rear defrost button a few times, but it's an easy fix. Overall, I'm really happy with my 5-speed Mazda, although I do wish it had a 6-speed. Thanks for listening!
Perry Quitzon 2025-11-11
Vehicle year: 2003
In the past 2 years, I've had to replace a lot of parts on my car including 2 wheel bearings, the front axle, the alternator, and even the seat belt. Unfortunately, I also had to get a valve job which ended up causing issues with the piston rings. This is something to be aware of if you own this type of car. It's not an easy fix and may require a new engine. It's important to note that the newest versions of these cars are now 13 years old, so it may not be the best investment to buy one.
Eli Kshlerin 2025-10-16
Vehicle year: 1997
I own both a 97 and 98 Protégé. Both have been very dependable. If you are looking for something that is inexpensive, reliable and provides good gas mileage, I would definitely recommend this car. Both of my cars are LXs, which are somewhat sporty looking, but it's important to note that this is not the car to buy if you are looking for performance.