1999 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 1999 Mazda Protege problems
The Mazda Protege, produced from 1990 to 2003, has been known for its reliability. However, some specific model years, including the 1999 Mazda Protege, have faced certain common problems. Based on complaints from owners, the following issues have been identified:
- Engine Problems: Engine issues are the most common problem category for the Mazda Protege. Some of these problems include rough idling, misfiring, and a failing catalytic converter. To address these issues, it is recommended to follow the severe duty maintenance schedule in the owner's manual, including regular oil and oil filter changes, coolant changes, and PCV system maintenance. Regular maintenance can help prevent engine problems and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission issues have been reported in the 1999 Mazda Protege, with some users experiencing hesitation after stopping and then jerking forward when moving. This can give the sensation of a rear collision and may be due to clutch or transmission problems. It is important to have these issues inspected and addressed by a professional to prevent further damage.
- Airbag Issues: Some 1999 Mazda Protege owners have reported issues with the airbags, including non-deployment during collisions. This can be a serious safety concern and may result in injuries. If you are considering purchasing a 1999 Protege, it is important to have the airbag system inspected to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Brake Problems: Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 to 3 years to prevent moisture buildup and maintain the condition of rubber seals. For the 1999 Protege, it is also important to check for sticking brake calipers, which can result in reduced brake performance, reduced fuel economy, and delayed shifts if the vehicle is automatic. Rust and corrosion on sliders and in the mounting hole for the sliders, as well as under the anti-rattle shims at the pads, should be removed and high-temp disk brake grease applied to cleaned surfaces.
- Drive Belt Issues: The drive belts in the 1999 Protege are flat, ribbed serpentine belts that need to be tensioned properly to avoid squealing. If a properly tensioned serpentine belt squeals, the alternator pulley should be inspected for polishing that may cause the belt to slip. Roughening the surface with sandpaper can help prevent this issue.
By being aware of these common problems and addressing them promptly, Mazda Protege owners can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and keep the vehicle running smoothly.
Is 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.
Why is my 1999 Mazda Protege idling rough?
The most common reasons a Mazda Protege has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
Is 2000 Mazda Protege a good car?
On the road, the Protege is a bit louder than expected, but it does provide a good drive. The suspension is equal in both performance and ride quality when compared to the other top cars found in this class. Both engines come with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
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.
1999 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
- Tires problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Mazda Protege vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Mazda Protege
The NHTSA has received 91 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Mazda Protege. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Mazda Protege vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-01
- VIN: JM1BJ2229X0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE PLASTIC DIP STICK TO CHECK OIL SNAPPED OFF
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-03
- VIN: JM1BJ222XX0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS STARTED TO FLICKER AND FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL WIRING FAILURE THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-07
- VIN: JM1BJ2221X0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON NO MATTER WHAT THE READING SAYS CHANGE ALL PARTS WILL GO OFF BUT BACK ON AND FAIL INSPECTION MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR HAS BEEN CHANGE THREE TIMES AND CAYLI. CONVERTER TWICE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHTS NO LONGER WORK ON LOW BEAM. THE HIGH BEAMS STILL WORK. UPON REMOVING THE STEERING COLUMN COVER AND UNPLUGGING THE WIRING HARNESS I FOUND THAT THE CONNECTOR IS LITERALLY BURNED AND MELTED AT THE POINT OF CONNECTION IN THE HARNESS. MAZDA NO LONGER MAKES THE PART AND I CANNOT HAVE IT FIXED BY A MECHANIC BECAUSE THE PART IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND IN A USED SALVAGED VEHICLE. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-18
- VIN: JM1BJ2225X0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE REAR SEAT BELT AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR DOES NOT STAY LOCKED, MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO SAFELY INSTALL A CHILD SAFETY SEAT. THE SEAT BELT WAS RARELY IF EVER USED UNTIL THE CAR SEAT WAS INSTALLED. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2212X0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED HE REAR-ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE AT 50 MPH. UPON IMPACT THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. AS A CONSEQUENCE HE SUSTAINED MODERATE HEAD INJURIES. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS IN THE PROCESS OF INVESTIGATING THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. HE CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER, BUT WAS NOT PROVIDED WITH ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 217,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-22
- VIN: JM1BJ2221X0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FAULTY TIRE VALVES (DILL ACP 123 TR 418) ON A 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRE DEFLATED. THE CONSUMER STATED HE WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF A RECALL RELATING TO THE VALVE STEMS BY DILL-ACP MODEL TR-418. RECALL# 08T0228000. *JB SEE ALSO 10496085 *SY UPDATED 06/23/10.*JB THE CONSUMER STATED HE HAS SINCE EXPERIENCED ANOTHER TIRE FAILURE, DUE TO A DEFECTIVE TIRE VALVE STEM. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VALVE STEM WAS CRACKED AND THE REAR TIRE WAS SPLIT. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT BOTH TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE REASON FOR THE SPLIT WAS DUE TO HEAT BUILD-UP, BECAUSE HE CONTINUED TO DRIVE ON THE TIRE, BEFORE HE REALIZED THE TIRE HAD DEFLATED. UPDATED 10/24/12 UPDATED 02/07/13
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-01
- VIN: JM1BJ2226X0
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: PROBLEM MAZDA TRANSMISSION FAILURE .MAZDA PROTEGE 1999 THIS CAR HAD A MAJOR ENGINE OVERHAUL RECENT ABOUT A YEAR FROM NOW. ONE MONTH AFTER OVERHAUL TRANSMISSION FAILED. MAZDA REFUSED TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS FAILURE. TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED AT OWNER EXPENSE EXACTLY ONE YEAR AFTER THAT TRANSMISSION WAS FIXED FAILURE AGAIN . AGAIN TRANSMISSION NOT COVERED OUT OF WARRANTY. ESTIMATE AS TO HOW MUCH HAS BEEN SPENT SO FAR $3,500. AS OF NOW I CANT DRIVE THIS CAR BECAUSE THE CAR CANT BE MOVED DUE TO MALFUNCTION. AFTER RESEARCH ONLINE I HAVE FOUND THIS VIN NUMBER ON THIS MAZDA HAS HAD ISSUES WITH TRANSMISSION FAILURE AT OFF LAMP FLASHING NO SHIFT CONDITION 3RD GEAR SHIFT RATION SET ERRATIC SHIFTS ISSUES WITH TRANSMISSION ISSUES ETC. I PERSONALLY FEEL THEY SHOULD COMPENSATE OR AT LEAST TRY AND HELP TO GET THIS RESOLVED AND THEY REFUSE TO ADMIT THEY HAVE AN ISSUE WITH THE TRANSMISSIONS ON THIS CAR VIN VERY BAD PRACTICE THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL OR AT LEAST TRY AND HELP PAY FOR ALL THESE DAMAGES I DON'T THINK I SHOULD HAVE TO BUY A CAR TRANSMISSION EVERY YEAR BECAUSE THEY DON'T WANT TO ADMIT OR TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY WITH THIS "KNOWN ISSUE" I CALLED MAZDA THEY SAID I HAVE TO PAY ALL DAMAGES ON TRANSMISSION I DON'T DRIVE ALOT CAR IS DRIVEN VERY MINIMAL WORK AND BACK. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-15
- VIN: JM1BJ222XX0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WE OWN A MAZDA PROTEGE 1999. BOTH THE HEADLIGHTS & BRIGHT LIGHTS FAILED. WE TRIED REPLACING BULBS & A RELAY, NEITHER OF WHICH WORKED. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT AN INDEPENDENT AUTOMOBILE ELECTRICAL SHOP. THE OWNER STATED THAT THE INTERNAL WIRING FOR THESE COMPONENTS BURNED OUT. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED AN INTERNAL FIRE BEHIND THE DASHBOARD. THE WIRES WERE NOT EXPOSED UNDER THE HOOD SO WE COULD NOT HAVE KNOWN THAT THEY WERE WEARING THIN. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH MAZDA USA AS THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH MAZDA. I AM DISTRESSED THAT MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING A CAR KNOWN TO HAVE FAULTY WIRING THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ENGINE AND/OR INTERIOR FIRE. MAZDA USA ADVISED ME THAT THE CAR WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY, AND I WAS FACING A $700 COST FOR REPAIRS. I WAS HOPING MAZDA WILL HELP WITH THIS, BUT AS YET THEY HAVE NOT, AND MY DAUGHTER WAS WITHOUT A CAR TO DRIVE AT NIGHT.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-08
- VIN: JM1BJ2221X0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS AND THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT HONOR THE WARRANTY. *MR THE VEHICLE WAS TAKNE IN FOR THE TIMING, WATER PUMP, ETC. *SC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
- VIN: JM1BJ2221X0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE DEVELOPED PROBLEMS WITH THE ENGINE. REPAIRS WERE MADE AND THE TOTAL CAME UP TO $804.64. *MR A NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. *SC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY SON PURCHASED A 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE LX LAST YEAR. HE HAS HAD MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING HOT. HE WAS TOLD HE NEEDED A TIMING BELT AND WATER PUMP. HE HAD THE CAR FIXED AT A COST OF $750.00. AGAIN THE SAME THING HAPPENED ABOUT TWO MONTHS LATER. HE AGAIN IS BEING TOLD THAT HE NEEDS THE SAME WORK DONE. THIS TIME IT IS GOING TO COST HIM $900.00 AND THE ENGINE HAS TO BE TESTED TO SEE IF THERE IS NO DAMAGE. IF THERE IS DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE IT WILL BE MORE COSTLY. ALSO THE POWER LOCKS ARE DAMAGED AND THIS OCCURRED THE FIRST WEEK OF PURCHASE.*AK
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-06
- VIN: JM1BJ221XX0
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I AM NOW HAVING TO PUT THE 3RD TRANSMISSION IN MY 99 MAZDA PROTEGE, THE FIRST TWO WERE AT MAZDA EXPENSE AND I FEEL THE 3RD SHOULD BE AS WELL SINCE THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE AND THIS MODEL.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-27
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I OWNED A 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE THAT HAD THE ORIGINAL TRANSMISSION REPLACED AT 49500 MILES. APPROXIMATELY 24 MONTHS LATER AT 85000 MILES, THE REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION WENT OUT AS WELL. IN BOTH INSTANCES THE PROBLEMS WAS THE AXLE BREAKING THE RESTRAINING CLIP CAUSING THE TRANSMISSION TO MOVE OUT OF POSITION. THE TRANSMISSION WOULD THEN LEAK CAUSING SLIPPING AND LURCHING. THE REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION INSTALLED BY THE DEALER WAS A REBUILT TRANSMISSION THAT ONLY HAD A 12/12000 WARRANTY. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-22
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH FAILURE. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME CLUTCH FAILED. FIRST TIME AT 57K, NOW AT 149K. FIRST TIME WAS FIXED AT MAZDA DEALERSHIP, BOTH REPLACED WITH MAZDA CLUTCH PARTS. HIGHWAY MILES USED MAJORITY OF TIME. *LA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-15
- VIN: JM1BJ2220X0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I BOUGHT THE CAR IN AUGUST 1999,IT HAD 12 MILES ON IT I HAD JUST GOTTEN RID OF ANOTHER PROTEGE 1994 THE MOST LOUSY CAR I HAD EVER SEEN,I HAD SPENT OVER$ 8,000 ON REPAIRS. 2 TRANSMISSIONS IN 2 YEARS. 2 SETS OF CV BOOTS ETC. ANYWAY I THOUGHT IF I COULD GET A NEW ONE I WOULD NOT HAVE ANY TROUBLE FOR A LONG TIME, IF ANY AT ALL. WELL,I HAD IT PROBABLY HAD IT ABOUT 6 MONTHS OR SO,AND IT STARTED MAKING A METALLIC RATTLING IN THE FRONT IN THE ENGINE. IT SOUNDS LIKE BACK IN THE OLD DAYS WHEN A CAR NEEDED OIL IT WOULD RATTLE LIKE A PIECE OF JUNK. THEY CHECKED IT OUT COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING,TOOK IT BACK SEVERAL TIMES, SO THE SERVICE MANAGER JOE BURK VERY NICE MAN VERY HELPFUL. THEY CHANGED A FEW PARTS, POWER TRAIN ETC, PLEASE CHECK MY RECORDS WITH THEM IF YOU CAN, OR I WILL HAVE TO DIG IN MY FILES TO FIND ALL OF THE RECEIPTS.SO HE SUGGESTED THAT I TRY DIFFERENT GAS. WELL,I DID I TRIED ALL OF THEM COST ME ALMOST $1,500. MOBIL,EXXON,CHEVRON,TEXACO,SHELL MID GRADE GAS. ABSOLUTLEY DID NOTHING,THIS WENT ON FOR A YEAR.THIS IS ABOUT 2001. WELL IT SEEMS IT DOES THIS VERY BADLY WHEN IT GETS HOT. HE SAID THAT THEY HAD HEARD ABOUT SOME OF THESE PROBLEMS IN HOUSTON WITH THEIR HEAT AND HUMIDITY. I ASK IF THIS DOES NOT WORK WHAT ARE THEY GOING TO DO? WELL MAZDA MENTIONED MAYBE GIVING ME ANOTHER CAR. THEY DECIDED TO PUT A BRAND NEW ENGINE IN IT,(A BRAND NEW CAR)BY THAT TIME IT HAD A LITTLE 20,000 MILES ON IT. I PAY $412.64 A MONTH ON A CAR THAT RATTLES LIKE A PIECE OF CRAP. THAT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. AS OF THE WEEK OF AUGUST 4-8 TOOK IT BACK STILL DOING IT, THEY REPLACED THE POWER TRAIN ON IT AND IT STILL DOES IT. THEY LOOKED AT IT AGAIN. NOTHING CAN BE DONE,AS LONG AS I AM IN WARRANTY I AM ALRIGHT, BUT WHEN THAT RUNS OUT I AM SCREWED.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- VIN: JM1BJ222XX0
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR STARTED WITH UNINTENTIONAL ACCELERATION LAST FEB. 2003. THEN IT STARTED TO FELL LIKE THE GEARS WERE SLIPPING. THE PROBLEM WAS INTERMITTENT. I TOOK IT INTO THE DEALER AND THEY COULD FIND NO PROBLEM. NOW, IT IS OCT. 2003 AND THE TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED. LAST NIGHT THE CAR GOT STUCK IN LOW GEAR AND WILL NOT REVERSE. THE RPM GO UP WHEN YOU TRY TO ACCELERATE, BUT THE CAR WILL NOT GO PAST 10 MILES AN HOUR. RIGHT NOW THE CAR IS AT THE DEALER'S SHOP AND I AM MAD!!! I AM A SINGLE MOM WHO BOUGHT THE CAR NEW. I'VE HAD ALL MAINTENANCE, AND I WANTED A CAR THAT WOULD LAST FOR 10 YEARS. NOW I FEEL CHEATED BY MAZDA!!
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2223XO
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE ABOVE DESCRIPTION IS THE FIRST TIME THE TRANSMISSION HAD BEEN REPAIRED. NOW AT 47,000 MILES, THE TRANSMISSION IS OUT AGAIN. JOEY
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ2224X0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH THE CONSUMER REAR ENDED ANOTHER MOTORIST. NONE OF THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED UPON IMPACT. AS A RESULT THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER STERNUM FROM IMPACTING THE STEERING WHEEL. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER'S VEHICLE HIT THE REAR END OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. FRONT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DRIVER SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-06
- VIN: JM1BJ222XX0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE AND DAMAGED THE FENDER WHILE DRIVING AT NORMAL SPEED. FIRESTONE, SIZE P185/65R14, DOT# H406JDNO79. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE VEHICLE AND STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING. THE CONSUMER TURNED OFF THE A/C, RADIO AND REDUCED SPEED TO LISTEN AND DETERMINE THE CAUSE. ONLY TWO EXITS AWAY FROM THEIR EXIT, THE CONSUMER HEARD A THUD. HE PULLED OVER AND SAW THE RIGHT REAR FENDER HANGING OFF TO THE CURB AND THE RIGHT REAR TIRE WAS BALD. ALL THE TREAD ON THE SURFACE WAS GONE. HE CHANGED THE TIRE, SECURED THE FENDER WITH DUCT TAPE AND WENT TO SEARS TO PURCHASE A NEW TIRE. CONSUMER SENT THE TIRE TO FIRESTONE/BRIDGESTONE FOR INSPECTION AND COMPENSATION. CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THERE INSPECTION SHOWED THAT THE TIRE WAS OPERATED FOR AN UNKNOWN PERIOD OF TIME WITH INSUFFICIENT AIR PRESSURE TO CARRY THE LOAD. THE INSUFFICIENT AIR PRESSURE WAS EVIDENT BY THE DEFORMATION THROUGHOUT THE TIRE BEAD AREA. THEY CONCLUDED THAT THE TIRE FAILURE WASN'T THE RESULT OF DEFECTIVE MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP. THE TIRE WAS RETURNED TO THE CONSUMER UPON HIS REQUEST. THE INSURANCE COMPANY ESTIMATED DAMAGES AT $902.54. *PH *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-15
- VIN: JM1BJ2223X0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE WITH 40K MILES AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. CAR PURCHASED NEW AND CARED FOR, AT RECENT SERVICE VEHICLE WAS TESTED AND FOUND TO HAVE SLIPPAGE IN 2ND AND 3RD GEAR AND TRANS WILL NOT "LOCK UP". REBUILD STARTS AT $1700 AND GOES UP. MAZDA SEEMS TO HAVE PROBLEMS RELATING TO TRANSMISSIONS AND NOT STANDING BEHIND THEIR PRODUCTS. TRANSMISSION SHOP INDICATES MAZDA'S TRANSMISSIONS ARE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR (AS MUCH AS LEXUS). *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-21
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CAR HESITATES BEFORE TAKING OFF AFTER STOPPING. WHEN IT DOES SWITCH INTO THE RIGHT GEAR AND MOVE FORWARD, IT IS AS IF YOU HAVE BEEN HIT IN THE REAR BECAUSE IT JERKS FORWARD HARD. THE CAR THEN DOES NOT ACCELERATE VERY WELL.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-11
- VIN: JM1BJ2223X0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE TRANSMISSION.*MR THE VEHICLE'S TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REPLACED A 32600 MILES. THE VEHICLE'S WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED AND THE CONSUMER HAD TO PAY FOR THE REPLACEMENT. THE CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT. *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-07
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AND WITH NO WARNING RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
1999 Mazda Protege recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1999 Mazda Protege.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A PARTICULAR FACTORY INSTALLED AUDIO UNIT. IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED AT LOW SPEED IN A HOT AND HUMID ENVIRONMENT WITH THE WINDOW OPEN, AIR CONDITIONER RUNNING, AND AUDIO ON, CONDENSED WATER ON THE A/C DUCT SURFACE COULD DROP AND ENTER INTO THE AUDIO UNIT, CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT.
- Consequence: IF THE SHORT CIRCUIT OCCURS AT ONE SPECIFIC SET OF TERMINALS, THE REAR RIGHT LOUDSPEAKER CAN OVERHEAT AND, IN SOME CASES, CATCH FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL AFFIX ALUMINUM TAPE OVER THE AUDIO UNIT TO PREVENT WATER FROM ENTERING.
Negative 1999 Mazda Protege car reviews
Positive 1999 Mazda Protege car reviews
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This is truly a great car. I purchased my 99 Mazda Protege used in March and I absolutely love it. Although I had to have the Catalytic converter changed on the car at 30,000 miles due to the previous owners using it only in the winter, I have not run across any other problems. The Mazda Protege is definitely worth considering.
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I've been driving this car for almost 4 years. Other than the mass air flow sensor going out on me, I haven't had any problems whatsoever. I would definitely recommend the Protege to anyone looking for an inexpensive and comfortable car. When it comes time to buy another car, I would definitely consider another Protege, perhaps one with more power like the Mazdaspeed version.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my '99 Mazda Protege LX. I bought it used back in July of 2003 and, unfortunately, I got into a pretty bad accident just 3 weeks later. Thankfully, the car's safety features like the seat belts, air bags, and crumple zones worked perfectly and I only ended up with some bruised ribs. The police officers who arrived at the scene were amazed that I wasn't more seriously hurt. Despite the accident, I still loved my '99 Protege and it drove like a dream even after 70K miles. In fact, I loved it so much that I ended up buying a used 2000 Protege to replace it. It's a fantastic little car!
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I love my Protege!
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Congratulations on your purchase! You've made a great choice with the 99 ES. With only 74k on it, this car is a steal for the price. It's definitely a better value than the Civic, Corolla, or Sentra. The ES model, with its 122hp and 15in wheels, makes it easy to forget that this is an econobox. The build quality and materials are top-notch, which is why it's still running strong after eight years on the road.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Mazda Protege problems:
1999 Mazda Protege Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 1999 Mazda Protege Problems · Engine Cranks and Doesn't Start. 104 people have reported this · Squealing In Timing Cover Area When Cold · Idles Rough, ...
Got a misfire/lag/bogging problem in my 1999 mazda protege 1.6L ...
Oct 1, 2022 ... If it's only one cylinder misfiring, move cyl.4 coil to a known good cylinder and see if the misfire stays on cylinder 4.
1999 MAZDA Protege Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1999 MAZDA Protege? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Owner's Guide: Mazdaspeed Protege Problems & Solutions ...
Feb 7, 2004 ... Owner's Guide: Mazdaspeed Protege Problems & Solutions ... Welcome to a Protege's transmission. How To ... 1999 MILLENIA 00000000 ZZZZZZZZ 2000 ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1992 Mazda Protege LX
Apr 8, 2011 ... hello, i have a 1992 mazda protege LX 1.8L DOHC. i have a problem going on for about a week now. the car started surging at idle and while ...
Other years of Mazda Protege
Are you having problems with your 1999 Mazda Protege?
Buster Rau 2024-10-04
This car has experienced some issues with its brakes, transmission, spark plug, speakers, and other components. However, it is important to note that these issues are not indicative of the car's overall performance. While it may not be the fastest car on the road, it still offers a smooth and reliable driving experience. With proper maintenance and care, this car can continue to provide dependable transportation.
Maxwell Huel 2024-06-19
The road noise was excessive and unfortunately, the transmission failed after only 46,000 miles. The customer service experience was unsatisfactory.