2002 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.
Social links
Common 2002 Mazda Protege problems
The 2002 Mazda Protege has been reported to have several issues related to its electrical systems, engine and cooling, powertrain, and seatbelts. Here are some of the most common problems with the 2002 Mazda Protege:
- Seatbelt Failure: The driver's side seat belt latch on the 2002 Protege is prone to fail. Numerous reports describe that the driver’s side seat belt latch breaks in the latched position, requiring the latch to be removed to release the belt. Another report mentioned the driver’s side seat belt latch was no longer working due to broken components in the female part.
- Faulty Transmission: The 2002 Protege has been reported to have several transmission issues, including rough shifting, hesitation, locking into a specific gear, and high-pitched noises. These issues can cause the vehicle to accelerate and jerk, resulting in an accident. In some cases, the transmission has been reported to seize while driving, causing the passengers to be thrown forward.
- Powertrain Issues: The 2002 Protege has been reported to have several powertrain issues related to its automatic transmission. One report mentioned the accelerator pedal sticking in the depressed position, causing the vehicle to accelerate and jerk, resulting in an accident. Another case detailed how the vehicle’s transmission seized while driving down a hill, causing the passengers to be thrown forward.
- Non-deployment of Airbags: In some cases, the front airbags on the 2002 Protege have failed to deploy during a collision. One report described a front-end impact of at least 45 mph that occurred without the braking. Despite the force of the collision, the front airbags didn’t deploy, resulting in serious injuries to the driver.
- Electrical System Problems: The 2002 Protege has been reported to have several electrical system issues, including problems with the voltage regulator that can damage the alternator and battery. Additionally, the car's AC system has been reported to fail, and the car's body is prone to rusting.
- Engine and Cooling Issues: The 2002 Protege has been reported to have issues with its engine and cooling system, including problems with the EGR system and the ignition system. The car's engine is prone to running rough, and the car may have difficulty starting due to issues with the starter or the fuel pump.
In summary, the 2002 Mazda Protege has several common issues related to its electrical systems, engine and cooling, powertrain, and seatbelts. These issues can cause the vehicle to accelerate and jerk, resulting in an accident, and can also result in serious injuries during a collision. Additionally, the car's electrical system, AC system, and body are prone to failure, and the car may have difficulty starting due to issues with the starter or the fuel pump.
Is a 2002 Mazda Protege a good car?
Car runs great. It has a decent amount of power which makes it fun to drive. It handles well and is enjoyable to drive. It's not the most stylish but it's great for your kids when they first start driving.
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.
Why is the check engine light flashing on my 2002 Mazda Protege?
Best Answer
On Mazda's, when the check engine light is flashing it means you have a misfire.
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.
2002 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:
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Tires problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Mazda Protege vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Mazda Protege
The NHTSA has received 100 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Mazda Protege. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Mazda Protege vehicles.
2019-05-12
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-07
- 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.
2017-09-10
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-09
- 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.
2016-05-04
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-10
- Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I'VE OWNED MY 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE5 FOR 7 YEARS NOW. IT'S ALWAYS HAD A VIBRATION WHILE BRAKING. EVEN AFTER HAVING OUT BRAND NEW BRAKES, ROTORS AND CALIPERS. I'M VERY ANAL ON HOW MY CAR LOOKS AND DRIVES. IF I FEEL SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY, I KNOW SOMETHING IS OFF. THIS HAS HAPPENED EVER SINCE I'VE HAD THE CAR. IT DOES CAUSE ME TO DRIVE MORE CAUTIOUSLY ESPECIALLY IN THE BACK ROADS ALONG WITH WET PAVEMENT. THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKES WHILE BRAKING AS WELL. AS FOR THE BODY OF THE CAR, THE PAINT IS FAIDING FAST. IT'S YELLOW, AND I HAND POLISH AND WAX IT ONCE BEFORE SPRING, SUMMER, AND WINTER. I USE MAGUIRES WAX AND POLISH EVERY TIME. AND IT'S ALSO GOT A RUST SPOT ALONG THE BACK LEFT WHEEL LIP. I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF THE VEHICLE. AND WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO BE REPAINTED AFTER I PLAYED FOR THE CAR. IT WAS MAGICALLY ONLY 24 HOURS FROM THE WARRANTY COVERING IT. OTHER THAN THAT, IT'S BEEN A GREAT CAR. I WOULD PURCHASE ANOTHER IF I CAN FIND ONE. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT BOTH OF THESE CONCERNS. PLEASE FIX AND I WOULD DRIVE THIS CAR UNTIL IT HITS 1 MILLION MILES. AS LONG AS YOU KEEP MAINTENANCE UP ON IT, IT LAST FOREVER.
2015-11-02
SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ225420
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: UNDERNEATH THE CAR IS NOTHING BUT RUST. IT IS AFFECTING THE UNDERCARRIAGE, THE BALL JOINTS, THE CONTROL ARM, AND THE CAR'S FRAME ITSELF. I HAVE REPLACED BOTH BALL JOINTS BOTH CONTROL ARM SHOCK AND THE CAR IS STILL HARD TO STEER
2015-09-24
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-03
- VIN: JM1BJ246421
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD. THE VEHICLE THEN ACCELERATED UP A HILL AND SUDDENLY STOPPED. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A TOW YARD. LATER, THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME WAS BENT AND THE FUEL AND BRAKE LINES WERE DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE REPAIRED AND WAS DESTROYED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. UPDATED 11/09/15*LJ
2015-09-18
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-18
- VIN: JM1BJ245621
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH BROKE IN THE LATCHED POSITION. NECESSITATED TAKING THE LATCH APART TO RELEASE THE BELT.
2014-12-09
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-05
- VIN: JM1BJ225721
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 35 MPH AND HIT A BUMP ON THE ROAD THAT CAUSED THE DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE TO COME LOOSE AND IT GOT IN MY WAY OF THE STEERING WHEEL. I WAS LUCKY TO BE DRIVING ON THE LEFT LANE ON ONE WAY STREET, I WAS ABLE PULL OVER, AND TO MY SURPRISE THE BUCKLE WOULDN'T LATCH TO THE FEMALE CONNECTOR. IT SEEMS LIKE THE FEMALE CONNECTOR PIECES INSIDE IT HAD BROKEN. PLEASE CHECK, THIS IS A HUGE CONCERN FOR ANYONE. IF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED ON AN INTERSTATE FREEWAY I CAN'T IMAGINE TAKING MY EYES OF THE ROAD FOR EVEN 1 SEC. PLEASE INVESTIGATE! *TR
2013-12-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-17
- VIN: JM1BJ245621
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE5. WITHOUT WARNING, IT WOULDN'T START. THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT BURNED OUT. THE HEAT, STEREO, HEADLIGHTS & POWER WINDOWS ALL WORKED. THE CAR HAD NO POWER AND DIDN'T EVEN TURN OVER. ABOUT 15 MINS LATER, IT STARTED FINE AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM AGAIN UNTIL A FEW DAYS AGO (APPROX A MONTH IN BETWEEN INCIDENTS). SAME THING ALL OVER AGAIN, BUT THIS TIME THE CAR REFUSES TO START. WHAT CAN I DO? WHAT INFO SHOULD I BE AWARE OF? I DISCOVERED ONLINE THAT THIS IS AN EXTREMELY COMMON PROBLEM. *TR
2013-10-25
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-01
- VIN: JM1BJ245X21
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE BUT THE ENGINE FAILED TO START ACCOMPANIED BY AN ABNORMAL KNOCKING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED MORE OFTEN WHEN THE ENGINE WAS COLD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 880. UPDATED 05/28/14*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED MODEL YEAR 2003 VEHICLES HAVE BEEN REPAIRED FOR THE SAME FAILURE BY THE MANUFACTURER. BUT THE MANUFACTURER REFUSES TO REPAIR MODEL YEARS 2001-2002. THE CONSUMER STATED THIS CONDITION DOES NOT KEEP THE ENGINE FROM STARTING. IT CAN AND HAS CAUSED CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, WHICH SHUTS DOWN THE POWER STEERING AND BRAKES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING. UPDATED 05/29/2014 *JS
2013-06-22
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-02
- VIN: JM1BJ225820
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AT FIRST THE SEAT BELT LOCKED AND I COULD NOT GET OUT OF IT. AFTER ABOUT 15 MINUTES I WAS ABLE TO GET IT RELEASED. THANK GOD I WAS IN THE GARAGE AT HOME. THEN APPROX 6 WEEKS LATER I WAS LATCHING THE BELT TO THE BUCKLE AND THE DARN THING FELL APART. THE RIGHT REAR DOOR HANDLE BROKE LAST YEAR BUT SINCE NO ONE SITS BACK THERE I NEVER WORRIED ABOUT IT. NOW WITH THE SEAT BELT ISSUE I WAS SEARCHING FOR THE PART AND SOMEONE SUGGESTED I CHECK THE RECALL LIST FOR THIS CAR, BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO DO THAT. I FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON LINE AND THEN THIS SITE. *TR
2012-12-06
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-22
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER-SIDE SEATBELT LATCH FELL APART. THE SEATBELT IS NO LONGER OPERABLE. *TR
2012-04-28
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-10
- VIN: JM1BJ245221
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE: FIREHAWK GT BL 205/50R16 87V 50K MILE TIRE. TREAD SEPARATION WITH ONLY 13,582 MILES ON THE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN THE TIRE WAS OBSERVED TO BE FLAT. ATTEMPTS TO INFLATE FAILED. REMOVED TIRE AND NOTICED TWO PLACES ON THE INWARD SIDE WHERE TREAD WAS SEPARATING - ONE SPOT WAS JUST OVER AN INCH AND THE OTHER WAS JUST UNDER AN INCH. FULL SET (4) ORIGINALLY PURCHASED AT FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE STORE, WHICH IS WHERE THE FAILED TIRE WAS TAKEN THE FOLLOWING MORNING. TIRE HAS SINCE BEEN DISCONTINUED AND WAS REPLACED BY A FALKEN ZIEX 912 BL 205/50R16 87V 40K MILE TIRE. HAD OTHER TIRES INSPECTED FOR SAME ISSUES THE NEXT DAY - SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE STATES THE OTHER THREE TIRES DO NOT SHOW ANY SIGNS OF THE PROBLEM. BASED ON TREAD DEPTH, WARRANTY COVERED CLOSE TO 90% OF REPLACEMENT TIRE. IN THE TWO WEEKS SINCE, THE REPLACEMENT TIRE APPEARS TO BE FINE - NO OBSERVABLE MIS-MATCH ISSUES. *TR
2012-02-22
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-21
- VIN: JM1BJ246X21
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON 905 WEST, CLOSE TO THE 805 N EXIT, AND THE ROAD WAS BROKEN. THERE WAS A HOLE ON THE ROAD AND MY CAR'S TIRE EXPLOTED WHEN I DROVE BY IT. MY CAR'S ALIGNMENT IS LOST. I ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF IT. UNFORTUNATELY I DIDN'T HAVE A GOOD SPARE TIRE SO I HAD TO DRIVE TO MY HOUSE WITH THE EXPLOTED TIRE, AND SINCE IT HAPPENED AT 10PM I WILL HAVE TO MISS WORK TO FIX IT, AND BUY A NEW TIRE. *TR
2012-02-21
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR BEGAN TO SHUTTER AND DROPPED FROM 50 TO 25 IN SECONDS. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT (CIL) STARTING FLASHING AND THE CAR BEGAN TO STUTTER LIKE IT WAS GOING TO DIE, I PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE CAR DIED. STARTED CAR AGAIN THE CIL CONTINUED TO FLASH, IT ONLY WOULD ACCELERATE TO 25 MILES AN HOURS EVEN WITH MY FOOT ALL THE WAY DOWN ON THE GAS. I TOOK IT TO THE A MECHANIC AND THE CODES WERE P0421, 171, 300. THE MECHANIC DID EVERYTHING FROM ENGINE FLUSH, SPARK PLUGS, OIL, AIR FILTERS AND INSTALLED A NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTER BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. ITS NOW A YEAR LATER AND THE CAR IS DOING THE EXACT SAME THING. *TR
2011-09-30
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-30
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEATBELT WILL NOT LOCK IN ON DRIVER'S SIDE AND TODAY THE HANDLE BROKE ON THE INSIDE DRIVER'S SIDE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR! *TR
2011-02-26
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- VIN: JM1BJ226821
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE. WERE THE UPPER PASSENGER SIDE MOTOR MOUNT ATTACHES TO THE CAR BODY, THE CAR BODY METAL IS SEVERELY RUSTED AND STARTING TO SEPARATE ON THE INSIDE OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. I DID TAKE THE CAR TO A MAZDA BODY SHOP AND THEY QUOTED ME IN THE AREA OF $1,000.00 TO FIX THE ISSUE. I DO NOT FEEL IT IS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO PAY FOR THE FIX AS THIS IS AN AREA HIGH IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT NOT SUBJECT TO THE ELEMENTS. BASICALLY MAZDA HAS SOME PROBLEM WITH THE METAL, THE ANTI CORROSION TREATMENT OR THE FINISH TREATMENT TO THE METAL. THIS IS IN A PROTECTED AREA AND IF PROPERLY MADE SHOULD NEVER RUST. NEEDLESS TO SAY, A GOOD SOLID MOTOR MOUNT IS A CRITICAL ITEM. I FIRST NOTICED THIS PROBLEM ABOUT JUNE 1ST 2010. *TR
2011-02-18
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-09
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS FRONT SEAT BELT WILL NOT LOCK IN. *LN
2011-01-11
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-09
- VIN: JM1BJ245721
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2002 MAZDA POWER STEERING PUMP FAILURES. PUMP HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, NOW ON ITS 3RD UNIT.. CAR, A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE5 HAS APPROX. 102,000 MILES ON IT. FIRST FAILURE WAS A COMPLETE FAILURE WITH LOSS OF STEERING WITH NO WARNING NOTICED. 2ND PUMP LEAK WAS DETERMINED BY MECHANIC CAUSING ERRATIC STEERING PROBLEMS. FIRST PUMP (ON CAR WHEN NEW) FAILED AT 87,000 MILES, 2ND OCCRRED SOME 10,000 MILES LATER. THE THIRD PUMP HAS ONLY 3K MILES AND NO WAY OF TELLING HOW LONG IT WILL LAST. MAZDA DENIES ALL RESPONSIBILITY. PUMPS HAS BEEN REPLACED 2X AND ON ITS THIRD PUMP ON THIS CAR. OLD PART NOT LIKELY AVAILABLE. MAZDA TOLD OWNER THEY HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS (EVER?) WITH POWER STEERING PUMPS, A LIE. CHECK INTERNET FOR POWER STEERING PUMP FAILURES. CURRENTLY RECALLING 500,000 POWER STEERING PUMPS ON OTHER YEARS. BELIEVE THEY HAVE NOT ADMITTED THEIR COMPLETE PROBLEMS ON THESE UNITS TO THIS DATE. *TR
2010-12-23
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-15
- VIN: JM1BJ245621
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2002 PROTEGE HEATER FAN SWITCH MALFUNCTIONED AND MELTED PLUG AND SWITCH ALMOST CAUSED A FIRE BUT IT WAS SMOKING WHEN IT FRIED AND CAUSED THE 4TH SPEED OF THE FAN NOT TO WORK I HAD TO SPLICE A NEW PLUG IN TO FIX THE ISSUE AND TO KEEP IT FROM CATCHING FIRE I HAVE PICTURES IF NEEDED. *LN
2010-12-14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ225721
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA PROTG. THE CONTACT WAS ENTERING A PARKING SPACE WHEN THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKE BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE AND CRASHED INTO A POLE. SHE STATED THAT THE POLE STRUCK A BUILDING AND CAUSED MINOR DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A CLAIM WAS FILED WITH HER INSURANCE COMPANY. THE FRONT BUMPER OF THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,624 AND THE APPROXIMATE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 2/22/11 *CN UPDATED 07/01/11
2010-11-29
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ225020
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MYSELF, THE DRIVER, REAR-ENDED ANOTHER DRIVER AT A SPEED OF 35-40MPH. THE DRIVER SLAMMED ON HIS BRAKES AND I HAD NO TIME TO REACT. THE RESULT IS A TOTALED FRONT END W/ $4000+ OF REPAIRS. THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN ME AND THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CAR WILL BE TOTALED AND I SUFFERED EXTENSIVE BRUISING BECAUSE OF THIS FAILURE. *TR
2010-08-11
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-09
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS FRONT SEAT BELT WILL NOT LOCK IN. *TR
2010-03-31
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ226221
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON 10/31/09, WHILE MOVING THE '02 MAZDA PROTEGE ES FROM 2ND BAY TO 1ST BAY IN MY SHOP, AT THE 1ST BAY EVEN BRAKE PEDAL BEING APPLIED, THAT CAR RUSHED FORWARD TO THE SHOP WALL ; MY SHOP WALL AND CAR CRASHED. MY ADDRESS IS [XXX](CELL) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2010-01-08
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ225620
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE RADIO STOPPED WORKING AND THEN SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE RADIO. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE FUSE TO DISENGAGE THE RADIO AFTER SMELLING THE WIRES BURNING. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE RISK SINCE SERIOUS DAMAGE MAY HAVE OCCURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,275.
2009-11-20
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-28
- VIN: JM1BJ225620
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVE SEAT BELT LATCH BROKE INTO PIECES. *TR
2002 Mazda Protege recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Mazda Protege.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 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: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- 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.
2006-07-17
- Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
2006-05-08
- Manufacturer: ALFAOTTO AUTO ACCESSORIES
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. 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: ALFAOTTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ALFAOTTO AT 626-656-2992 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.ALFAOTTO.COM.
Positive 2002 Mazda Protege car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Mazda Protege problems:
2002 Mazda Protege Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-mazda-protege/problems
Top 2002 Mazda Protege Problems · Engine Cranks and Doesn't Start · Squealing In Timing Cover Area When Cold · Idles Rough, Misfires, and Possible Check Engine ...
2002 P5, what are the common problems? | Mazdas247
https://mazdas247.com/forum/t/2002-p5-what-are-the-common-problems.119138/
Aug 23, 2005 ... Member · 1. Rattling in engine- Short Block replaced under warranty · 2. Heater went out- Replaced under warranty · 3. Alarm system went out- ...
On-going problems with 2002 Mazda Protege 5 - Maintenance ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/on-going-problems-with-2002-mazda-protege-5/20168
Sep 30, 2008 ... I've had the 2002 Protege 5 for 4 years. Bought it at 11000 miles and now have 85000. 6-weeks ago, the check engine light started coming on ...
Mazda Protege 5, any common issues I should know about? - Cars ...
https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/boards/271-cars-and-trucks/69805639
Aug 7, 2014 ... Besides normal wear and tear stuff and regular maintenance, my protege has been very reliable. The rear engine mount is difficult to replace ...
2002 Mazda Protege issues with starting : r/MechanicAdvice
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/14nkqn0/2002_mazda_protege_issues_with_starting/
Jul 1, 2023 ... Took it to the auto store and they ruled out any issue with the battery or alternator - both are fine. Next day, wouldn't start again, but read ...
Other years of Mazda Protege
Are you having problems with your 2002 Mazda Protege?
Maximillian Green 2025-01-08
I can't express how much I love this car. It's been such a reliable companion, with the original clutch and water pump still going strong. All I do is change the oil every 3,750 miles and perform the major service every 30K miles. It's truly an amazing car.
Mac Ward 2025-01-02
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share with you that earlier today, on Jan 26 at 12:09, my friends and I were in a car accident involving a speeding pickup truck. Unfortunately, my 2002 Mazda Protegé ES was totaled due to the impact, but the good news is that all four of us walked away without any injuries. We're grateful to be okay!
Martin Koelpin 2025-01-01
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I think your 2002 Mazda Protege DX is a fantastic car! It looks great both inside and out, and I'm so glad to hear that it's been reliable for you. Plus, the air conditioning and music system sound like they're working perfectly. I'm really happy to hear that you're enjoying driving it, and I hope it continues to serve you well. Thanks for sharing your experience with me!
Alexys Kunde 2024-11-23
This is actually my second Protege. My first one was a 2000 model, which unfortunately got totaled. If it hadn't, I would have kept driving it for at least another 5 years! The Protege is a very well-built car that feels tight and reliable. I highly recommend getting one with the ES premium package and the mid-cycle refresh, which includes restyled rims and side blinkers, as well as a few interior tweaks. I test drove a Civic (too boring), a Focus (too many recalls), and an Elantra GT (???) before ultimately deciding to go back to the Protege ES. It just feels more solid and doesn't give you that small economy sedan vibe.
Ronaldo Gleichner 2024-11-14
You have a very nice car! It's outstanding in every way and has been very reliable for almost 2 years now. Although, I understand your wish for a sixth gear.