1997 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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Common 1997 Mazda Protege problems
The 1997 Mazda Protege is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. Here are some of the most common issues and their details:
Starting Problems
One of the most common problems with the 1997 Mazda Protege is starting issues. Some owners have reported that their car starts but reluctantly, taking a few minutes to crank and start.
Low Tire Pressure Warning Light
Another common problem with the 1997 Mazda Protege is the low tire pressure warning light. This light means that one or more of the car's tires have low air pressure, too high pressure, or a slow leak or flat. It's essential to check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level to avoid this issue.
Fog Lights Are On
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported that their car's fog lights are on. While this isn't a warning light, it indicates that the car has separate fog lights or daytime running lights. It's essential to turn off the fog lights when they're not needed to save fuel and avoid distracting other drivers.
Lane-Keeping Assist System
The 1997 Mazda Protege has a lane-keeping assist system that helps keep the car in its lane and prevents it from drifting from side to side. This system is activated when the car is moving, and the light is on. It's essential to be familiar with this system and how to turn it off when necessary.
Brake System Issues
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the brake system. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) light might come on for various reasons, including a faulty speed sensor, low brake fluid, or total brake failure. It's essential to get the car checked out by a professional if the ABS light comes on to avoid any safety issues.
Valve Lash Issues
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the valve lash, which is the clearance between the valve lifter and the valve rocker arm. If the valve lash is too tight, the engine might have low compression and trouble starting. It's recommended to check the valve lash specs and adjust them accordingly to avoid this issue.
Fuel Issues
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the fuel system, including low fuel pressure and clogged fuel injectors. It's recommended to check the fuel pressure and injectors regularly to avoid any starting or running issues.
Transmission Issues
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the transmission, including slipping, grinding, and jerking. It's recommended to check the transmission fluid level and condition regularly to avoid any transmission issues.
Suspension Issues
Some 1997 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the suspension, including worn-out shocks and struts, loose steering components, and noisy ball joints. It's recommended to check the suspension components regularly to avoid any handling or safety issues.
Is a Mazda Protege a reliable car?
The Mazda Protege, a compact car produced between 1963 and 2003, is a hidden gem in the used car market, particularly for those on a budget. This vehicle is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers.
What is the gas mileage on a 1997 Mazda Protege?
32.13
Based on data from 14 vehicles, 1,119 fuel-ups and 253,474 miles of driving, the 1997 Mazda Protege gets a combined Avg MPG of 32.13 with a 0.53 MPG margin of error.
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.
What car replaced the Mazda Protege?
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.
1997 Mazda Protege car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Protege problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Mazda Protege vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Mazda Protege
The NHTSA has received 77 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Mazda Protege. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Mazda Protege vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-24
- VIN: JM1BC1413V0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MAZDA PROTG DX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER TAKING HIS VEHICLE IN FOR ROUTINE INSPECTION, THE MECHANIC INFORMED HIM THAT BOTH THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKES WERE RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT ALL THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 99,000. UPDATED 02/11/11 *BF UPDATED 11/30/2011 *LN
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-18
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE CONSUMER STATED THE FILLER NECK TUBE HAS RUSTED. AS A RESULT FUEL VAPORS SEEPED INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. A RECALL FOR THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK HAS BEEN ISSUED, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS OUTSIDE OF THE REMEDY SCOPE. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- VIN: JM1BC1417V0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AFTER FIXING THE CATALYST CONVERTER, IT THEN GOES OUT AGAIN REQUIRING ME TO HAVE IT FIXED AGAIN
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-01
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND ACCELERATION IS POOR.*MR ENCLOSED ARE COPIES OF THE RECEIPTS AND SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED IN REFERENCE TO THE DEFECTIVE VEHICLE. *CB THE CONSUMER STATED THE PROBLEM WAS FINALLY IDENTIFIED AS A FAULTY VALVEIN CYLINDER #1. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-22
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AFTER INVESTIGATING "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT" OVER A PERIOD OF 5 MONTHS, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT A VALVE PROBLEM IN THE FIRST CYLINDER WAS CAUSING A LACK OF COMPRESSION AND POOR ENGINE PERFORMANCE. 2 OXYGEN SENSORS WERE REPLACED, AS WELL AS 8 VALVES AND OTHER PARTS, TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. WE SPENT A TOTAL OF $1791.78 BEFORE THE CAR WAS FIXED. WE LEARNED FROM OUR MAZDA DEALER THAT A SERVICE BULLETIN WAS ISSUED 6/10/98 THAT COVERED THIS PROBLEM. WE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE MAZDA AREA REP, AND NO REIMBURSEMENT WAS ISSUED. *PH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 1997 626 IS HAVING A SEVERE TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. THERE IS ONLY 60000 MILES ON IT. CONSIDERING THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS FILES ON THIS ISSUE, I SINCERELY HOPE THAT MAZDA DOES SOMETHING ABOUT (RECALL OR BETTER GO OUT OF BUSINESS). *NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1410V0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION. *MR *PH
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG FAILED TO DEPLOY ON BOTH SIDES AT 35MPH WHILE REAR ENDING A VAN. TORE OFF BUMPER WITH AIRBAG SENSORS CLEARLY IN VIEW AIRBAG LIGHT INSIDE OF VEHICLE WAS NOT ON EITHER. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1410V0
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: FAILURE OF THE LATCHES ON BOTH FRONT SEAT ALLOWING THE SEAT TO RECLINE. DURING AN ACCIDENT WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS STRUCK IN REAR CAUSING THE SEAT BACK TO RECLINE. THE ACTION TRAPPED MY WIFE'S LEFT FOOT UNDER THE SEAT. THIS CAUSED SEVERE CONTUSION AND ABRASIONS.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-13
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THERE WAS A SEVERE WHINING NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL AREA, DEALER FOUND THE G1 BEARING WAS WORN ON THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT TO THE RIGHT FRONT AXLE, THE NOISE CONTINUED TO GET LOUDER AND THE DEALER FOUND THE SWAY BAR LINKS TO BE DEFECTIVE, CONSUMER IS ASKING FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPAIRS MADE. *SLC
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1418V0
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH THERE WAS A DIRECT FRONTAL COLLISION, AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, CAUSING INJURY TO DRIVER. *AK THE SEAT BELT FAILED DURING THE ACCIDENT. *YH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-01
- VIN: JM1BC1416V0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: OVERDRIVE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON, WHEN SHIFTING VEHICLE WILL KICK. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-27
- VIN: JM1BC1416VO
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: LIGHTS KEPT COMING ON, OVERDRIVE SENSOR. CONSUMER WAS TOLD BY MECHANIC THAT IT FUSE WAS BLOWN, IT HAPPENED AGAIN. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-01
- VIN: JM1BC1417V0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: POWER LOCKS WERE REPLACED TWICE BY COVINGTON PIKE MAZDA (TN) AND ONCE BY CASCADE MAZDA DEALER(OH, 44221). THIS IS THE FOURTH TIME, MY LOCKS HAVE DETERIORATED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE CALIPER PINS RUSTED OUT DUE TO MOISTURE COMING INTO CONTACT WITH THE PINS, AND CAUSING THE CALIPERS TO WORK ERRATICALLY. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. DEALER WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM. CONSUMER ADDED THAT CALIPERS WERE EXHIBITING A CLICK AND POPPING NOISE, DEALER REPLACED CALIPERS. CUSTOMER STATES DOME LIGHT FAILED. *TT
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-13
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: RIGHT SIDE AXLE SHAFT/FRONT SWAY BAR LINKS TOTALLING $576.44 IN REPAIRS.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-14
- VIN: JM1BC1412V0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ENGINE IDLED UP OR DOWN AT STOP WITH FOOT ON BRAKE CAR WOULD SOMETIMES RACE UP OVER 300 RPMS SHUT ENGINE OFF TO STOP IT FROM GOING HIGHER THIS HAPPENED THREE TIMES ALMOST GOING THROUGH BACK OF MY GARAGE ALSO SURGED WHEN TRYING TO PARK AND CAUSING CAR TO JUMP FORWARD CAR HAS STALLED AT INTERSECTIONS TWICE THEY CHANGED NUMEROUS PARTS INCLUDING WIRE HARNESS UNDER HOOD GROUNDS ALTERNATOR VACUUM LINE ENGINE MOUNTS WHEN THIS FIRST STARTED TO BE WORSENING ON SURGING AND GOT A NUMBER FOR MAZDA TECH CENTER BY MISTAKE AND THE MAN I TALKED TO SAID HE FELT THIS SHOULD BE TAKEN UP WITH MAZDA REP FOR THIS AREA AND THEY SAID HE DID NOT FEEL IT WAS SERIOUS ENOUGH TO LOOK INTO ANY FURTHER HOLIDAY DEALER SERVICE REPS DID NOT HELP ME MUCH WITH ANYTHINGI WOULD HAVE TO ASK AROUND WITH FRIENDS TO FIND WHAT ELSE MIGHT BE CAUSING SURGES AND IDLING DOWN TO STALLING EACH HAD DIFFERENT IDEAS WHICH I WOULD TAKE TO HOLIDAY AND I WOULD BE PUT OFF AS THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING EVEN THOUGH THEY HAD DIFFERENT MECHANICS SEE THE IDLE SURGES ANDCOULD NOT FIGURE WHAT CAUSED ITBESIDES THE THINGS I MENTIONED I HAD A ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH DOOR NOT UNLOCKING OR WINDOW GOING UP OR DOWN TOOK IT IN 2 TIMES AND THEN THE SERVICES REP SAID I SHOULD JUST LIVE WITH IT AND WALKED AWAY ON ME WHICH I HAVENT BEEN BACK SINCE BUT KEEP CALLING MAZDA AND THEY KEEP PUTTING ME OFF THEY SUGGESTED I GO ONLY TO MAZDA CERTIFIED PLACES WHICH THERE ARE NOT ANYMORE AROUND HERE WITHOUT DRIVING 45 MILES TO APPLETON SO A GUY AT A SHOP I WAS AT SAID I SHOULD CONTACT YOU PEOPLE TO SEE WHAT I COULD DO I HAD NO IDEA WHERE I COULD GET HELP I WILL NOT TALK TO THAT IGNORANT SERVICE REP AGAIN DO I HAVE A RIGHT TO GO TO A DIFFERENT PLACE TO SEE IF THE PROBLEM CAN BE FIXED I FOUND A COUPLE GOOD LEADS TO MY PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET WHICH SEAMS TO BE A COMMON OCCURENCE ON MAZDA AND A FEW OTHER CARS THAT WHERE FIXED BY THESE MECHANICS WHICH WAS SOME CENSOR OR VACUUM GAUGE ON THE BRAKE SYSTEMSOR AMAIN COMPUTER PROBLEMTO IGNITIONCCAN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-20
- VIN: JM1BC1415V0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY EXPLODED WHEN I TURNED ON THE IGNITION PUT 3 DENTS IN THE HOOD, MAZDA BATTREY. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-14
- VIN: JM1BC1412V0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR ALWAYS WOULD SPEED UP OR IDLE DOWN AT DIFF. TIMES ONCE WENT TO 3000 RPMS HAD TO SHUT ENGINE OFF KILLED AT STOP SIGNS HOLIDAY CHANGED DIFF COMPONENTS BUT COULD NOT STOP THE IDLING AND LURCHING FORWARD PROBLEM ALSO AT DIFF TIMES IT WOULD IDLE DOWN AND STALL OR JUST IDLE UP AND DOWN TIL I WOULD SHUT IT OFF AND RESTART OR JUST STOP ON THE GAS THIS IDLING UP AND LURCHING FORWARD HAS AT DIFF TIMES ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT BY GOING FORWARD. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-19
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE FAILED, CAUSING INOPERATIVE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED, AND INFORMED CONSUMER IT WAS NOT COVER UNDER A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL. *AK THE CONSUMER PURCHASED REPLACEMENT PARTS AND THE PROBLEM WAS SOLVED. *YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1414V0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MAZDA PRO HAD ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS RESULTING IN 2 ENGINE FIRES IN 3-4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1416V0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1) AIRBAG DIDNT DEPLOY DURING A RIGHT ANGLE (T BONE) ACCIDENT AT AN INTERSECTION .. THE DRIVER (ME) SYSTAINED HEAD AND FACE / CHEST INJURIES. 2) SINCE NEW THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE ON MY NON ABS CAR LOCKES UP VERY EASILY, AND HAS CAUSED A SPIN OUT IN SEVERAL CASES, ON WET SURFACES. A DEALER TRIED TO DO SOMETHING, BUT IT HAS NOT CORRECTED THE PROBLEM. FURTHER, WHEN I WROTE MAZDA CUSTOMER SERVICE HQ, THEY SIMPLY SAID TO GO BACK TO A DEALER FOR THEIR JUDGEMENT / ACTION TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES ON WET PAVEMENT PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR, RESULTING IN EXETENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-30
- VIN: JM1BG2267M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT CABLE WILL NOT RELEASE FROM THE RETRACTING MECHANISM, CAUSING SEAT BELTS TO BECOME INOPERABLE. CABLE OF BELT IS STICKING OUT OF TRACK AND MOTORS HAD TO BE DISCONNECTED BECAUSE THEY WERE RUNNING ALL THE TIME AND RAN DOWN THE BATTERY. *AK *ML
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BC1418V0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD-ON COLLISION WHILE TRAVELING 40 MPH. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER DRIVER'S SIDE NOR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
1997 Mazda Protege recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Mazda Protege.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Negative 1997 Mazda Protege car reviews
Positive 1997 Mazda Protege car reviews
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Actually, there are a lot of performance parts available for the 1.5l LX that can increase the stock HP of 92 to around 150, resulting in a significant improvement in such a small car. These upgrades can be done for less than a thousand dollars and can drastically improve the car's performance without sacrificing fuel economy too much (I have personally done these upgrades and I get around 28 mpg overall, with a majority of highway driving).
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This is the very first car I have ever bought and paid for myself - and it is worth every penny. I always make sure to keep up with all of my scheduled maintenance - this car will be with me for a long time!
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Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it a little over 3 years ago with 45,000 miles on it, and I have to say, it's been a great car overall. I did have a minor issue with a cracked header, but other than that, it's been fairly easy to maintain and repair. It's also been a reliable car for road trips, performing well on the highway. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for an efficient people mover. In fact, my wife even switched from Toyota to Mazda when she bought her P5. Thanks for reading!
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I am so glad I bought this car brand new 9 years ago, and I have not had a single regret. It has been as flawless as any vehicle could possibly be for this long. I can't say enough about how great it's been, and it says a lot for how underrated Mazda is as a company, in general. Additionally, this car is deceptively roomy-- total interior volume tops an Infiniti Q45 of the same year (their flagship luxury car)! If you're looking for a little more power/fuel economy, I would recommend the addition of a K&N air filter.
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I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned buying a car for your daily commute. It sounds like you put a lot of miles on it, but I'm glad to hear that it drove well on the freeway and around town while also getting great gas mileage. While it may not be the most comfortable option out there, it definitely seems like the best buy for its cost.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Mazda Protege problems:
1997 Mazda Protege Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 1997 Mazda Protege Problems · Engine Cranks and Doesn't Start · Squealing In Timing Cover Area When Cold · Idles Rough, Misfires, and Possible Check Engine ...
The Unofficial User's Guide to the '95 to '98 Mazda Protégé - Mazda ...
Feb 25, 2013 ... Here is a list of common problems and fixes. Engine: Maintenance: Most people should adhere to the severe duty maintenance schedule in the ...
Common Mazda Protege Map Sensor Problems - Q&A for 2000 ...
Jun 23, 2009 ... 2 problems with my '00 Protege 1.6l First, got a MAP sensor pressure code. replaced the MAP no fix. Think the vacuum - Answered by a ...
Mazda Protege 1997 1.5L Automatic Transmission Problem | BAT ...
Receptionist & Complaint Dept. Joined: Nov 14, 2006. Messages: 2,953. Points: 0.
1997 MAZDA Protege Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1997 MAZDA Protege? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Mazda Protege
Are you having problems with your 1997 Mazda Protege?
Jarod Cormier 2024-11-23
I've owned this car for only 9 months and unfortunately, I've had to replace the oxygen sensors, exhaust manifold, and catalytic converter, which were all quite expensive. Additionally, I've experienced an issue with the accelerator pulling from my foot and sucking down to the floor twice, which was quite scary on the freeway. The mechanics suspect it may be related to the cruise control, but they're still investigating. Lastly, there's been a persistent squeaking sound from the front right that no one has been able to identify or fix. Overall, it's been a bit of a hassle, but I'm hopeful that we can get everything sorted out soon.
Emilio Bins 2024-11-09
We bought this car with the intention of driving it until the wheels fall off. We've only had to put a few dollars into it for things like brakes and the emission system, but it still runs great and gets an impressive 31 MPG around town. While it may not be the best choice for long family trips, it suits our needs perfectly and at a low cost.
Israel Little 2024-10-22
The interior dome light has unfortunately never worked, despite attempts by the dealer to fix it. The power windows track and switch both broke at 70K, but given that they were rarely used, it is surprising that they wore out so quickly. At 90K, there was some internal engine noise which was repaired for $1,300, but unfortunately the problem returned a week later. The dealer has now advised that it is not worth fixing. It is recommended to use high test gas to prevent valve pinging, which can cause damage to the engine. However, it is important to note that using high test gas can also lead to catalytic converter damage, which can be costly to repair. Despite being 6 model years old, the blower motor is unfortunately going bad. While these issues are frustrating, it is important to address them with confidence and a focus on finding solutions.
Carol Miller 2024-10-11
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share some information about my car with you. I bought it used back in 2001 when it only had 30,000kms on it. Since then, I've had to replace the exhaust at 150k kms and the windshield wiper connecting rod after using the wipers in heavy rain. Unfortunately, the plastic was cheap and the bill was almost $300! However, besides those minor issues, I've never had any major problems with the car. It gets excellent mileage and I'm really happy with it overall.
Elwyn Nienow 2024-08-13
The car's pick up is subpar and has caused me concern when making left turns into busy intersections. As a result, I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to replace this vehicle.