2003 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 2003 Mazda Protege problems
The 2003 Mazda Protege is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Here are some of the issues to be aware of:
- Faulty Seat Belts: The 2003 Protege has been reported to have issues with its seat belts, including the driver's side seat belt latch breaking or failing to work properly. This can be a safety concern and should be addressed promptly.
- Powertrain Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, including the accelerator pedal sticking in the depressed position and the transmission seizing while driving downhill. These issues can lead to accidents and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
- Airbag Non-Deployment: There have been reports of the front airbags not deploying in collisions, which can result in serious injuries. This is a critical safety issue that should be addressed immediately.
- Electrical System Problems: The 2003 Protege has been reported to have issues with its electrical system, including problems with the voltage regulator damaging the alternator and battery. These issues can affect the car's performance and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
- AC Not Working: Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system, including the AC not working properly. This can be an inconvenience, especially during hot weather, and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
- Rusting: The 2003 Protege has been reported to have issues with rusting, particularly in the body and brake system. This can affect the car's appearance and performance and should be addressed promptly.
- Engine Problems: The 8th generation Protege (1999-2003) ranks 19th in reliability out of 36 generations, with 49 complaints mostly about engine problems. These issues can affect the car's performance and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
- Brake Issues: The 2002 Protege has been reported to have issues with the caliper and brake system, including problems with the brake pads and rotors. These issues can affect the car's safety and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
- Interior Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the interior of the 2003 Protege, including problems with the dashboard and upholstery. These issues can affect the car's appearance and comfort and should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
In summary, the 2003 Mazda Protege is known for its reliability and value, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include faulty seat belts, powertrain problems, airbag non-deployment, electrical system problems, AC not working, rusting, engine problems, brake issues, and interior problems. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's safety and performance.
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 does my 2003 Mazda Protege idle 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.
How many 2003 Mazda Protege were made?
4,500 Mazdaspeed Protegés
4,500 Mazdaspeed Protegés were built, making this car a bit more rare than the Millionth Edition Chevy Vega. I couldn't find any Mazdaspeed Protegé commercials, so here's a video of a Mazdaspeed Protegé losing a drag race to a Mazdaspeed3.
How many miles per gallon does a 2003 Mazda Protege get?
2003 Mazda Protege
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 2003 Mazda Protege/Protege 5 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| 24 combined city/highway MPG 22 city 28 highway 4.2 gals/100 miles | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 2003 Mazda Protege/Protege 5 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic (S4) | |
| Regular Gasoline | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
2003 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Mazda Protege vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Mazda Protege
The NHTSA has received 121 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Mazda Protege. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Mazda Protege vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-22
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-28
- 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- 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.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-17
- 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ245931
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE 5 WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 45MPH AND STRUCK A MOVING VEHICLE IN THE REAR QUARTER PANEL. NO AIR BAG WAS DEPLOYED IN THE MAZDA PROTEGE 5. THE OTHER VEHICLE'S AIRBAGS DEPLOYED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-02
- VIN: JM1BJ245831
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEVERE RUSTING OF LEFT AND RIGHT REAR QUARTER PANELS LEADING INTO REAR OF ROCKER PANELS DUE TO POOR RUST PROTECTION FROM FACTORY.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-25
- VIN: JM1BJ225X30
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH IS NO LONGER WORKING. THERE APPEARS TO BE BROKEN PARTS IN THE FEMALE PART.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-02
- VIN: JM1BJ225931
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I WAS PULLING UP TO MY RESIDENCE WHEN THE SEAT BELT POPPED OUT OF THE RECEIVER BY ITSELF.. I TRIED TO RE-LATCH THE SEAT BELT AND IT WOULD NOT LATCH. I ATTEMPTED A FEW MORE TIMES AND THE SEAT BELT RECEIVER COMPLETELY FELL APART.. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-01
- VIN: JM1BJ245X31
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE STRUT TOWER HAS RUSTED TO THE POINT THAT FAILURE OF THE SUSPENSION IS IMMINENT. THE RUST INHIBITOR THAT WAS APPLIED FROM MAZDA MOTOR CORP. DURING MANUFACTURING, ON THE PASSENGER FRONT WHEEL WELL HAS FAILED AND IS ALLOWING WATER, ROAD SALT ETC TO ENTER THE ENGINE BAY AND CAUSE SEVERE RUSTING ON THE TOP AND SIDE PORTION OF THE STRUT TOWER WHERE THE SIDE MOTOR MOUNT AND STRUT TOWER BRACE ATTACH TO THE STRUT TOWER. THE FAILURE OF THE RUST INHIBITOR HAS NOW CAUSED THE FAILURE OF THE STEEL STRUT TOWER WHICH IN-TURN COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE AND/OR FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SUSPENSION TO BECOME DISLODGED AND CAUSE A SEVERE ACCIDENT. PICTURES CAN BE PROVIDED UPON REQUEST. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-05
- VIN: JM1BJ225430
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM A SMALLER CHEAP DEALERSHIP, I HAD NO IDEA THAT THE FRONT END WOULD BE AS BAD AS IT GOT. MY LOWER CONTROL ARM / BALL JOINT WAS SO CORRODED EVERY TIME I MADE A LEFT TURN IT WOULD MAKE A LOUD NOISE IN THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL THEN WOULD CONTINUE TO HAPPEN OVER AND OVER EACH TIME. THIS WOULD HAPPEN OFTEN WHEN IT WAS DRY AND WARM AND SAT FOR AWHILE. LIVING IN BUFFALO, WELL YOU CAN NOT HELP BUT HIT POTHOLES IN SOME PLACES MORE THAN OTHERS. THIS WOULD MAKE THE PROBLEM WORSE AND THROW MY STEERING OFF WHILE TRAVEL AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. IF I WAS DOING THE CURVES ON ROUTE 33 OR ROUTE 290 I WOULD HAVE TO SLOW DONE TO MAINTAIN STEERING ABILITY. I HAVE RECENTLY BEEN TOLD IT WAS SO BAD I COULD LOSE MY WHEEL AND CRASH. SO I WENT TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND THEY FIXED THE PROBLEM; BUT WITH A SLIGHTLY NEW PROBLEM ONE OF THE SCREWS WERE SO CORRODED THEY CHARGED ME $100.00 TO MAKE AN ACCESS PANEL FROM MY DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR PANEL UNDER MY FEET. THE TOTAL FOR JUST THOSE PARTS CAME TO $350.00 PLUS WHEEL ALIGNMENT. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-31
- VIN: JM1BJ225631
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE INNER FENDER WHERE THE STRUT IS MOUNTED IS GETTING RUSTED BADLY MAKING THE CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE. CAR RUNS FINE BUT I CAN PUSH WITH THE FINGER FROM THE WHEEL SIDE AND SEE THE BODY MOVE. IF CAR GOES OVER A POT HOLE IT MIGHT MAKE THE STRUT FALL OFF AND CAUSE A MAJOR ACCIDENT. THIS IS STRUCTURE ISSUE. I CANT REPLACE ANYTHING. MAZDA SHOULD BUY IT BACK JUST LIKE NISSAN DID ON THEIR PATHFINDER. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-01
- VIN: JM1BJ225231
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 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 13,200.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-26
- VIN: JM1BJ245131
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SEAT BELT WILL NO LONGER WORK. THE MALE END WILL NOT CONNECT TO THE FEMALE END. I LOOKED WITH A FLASHLIGHT AND THERE WERE BROKEN PIECES INSIDE. IT LOOKS LIKE THE BUCKLE CAME APART. I NOW HAVE TO USE THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-26
- VIN: JM1BJ245131
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED A '03 MAZDA PROTEGE5. WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD YESTERDAY AT 65 MPH, I HEARD A LOUD BANG AND HEARD SOMETHING HIT THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR. THE CAR EXHAUST SUDDENLY BECAME MUCH LOUDER. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OFF THE ROAD. I LOOKED UNDER THE CAR, AND THE EXHAUST HAD COME APART. THE PIECE OF THE EXHAUST AFTER THE CAT WAS HANGING ABOUT 1 INCH FROM THE GROUND. THIS PIECE IS AFTER THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, NEAR ONE OF THE HANGING POINTS OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. TWO BOLTS, WHICH HOLD THIS PIECE TOGETHER, AND THE EXHAUST GASKET WERE MISSING. LUCKILY, THERE WAS NO DAMAGE WHATSOEVER. THIS PROBLEM COULD HAVE ENDED TRAGICALLY. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-16
- VIN: JM1BJ225X30
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE IT WAS STATED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
STEERING,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-28
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BJ227230
- Components: STEERING,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHILE MY SON WAS DRIVING TO WORK ON A HILL CURVE TURN HE LOST CONTROL ON ICY WET ROAD AND HIT A TREE HE DIED ON 01/29/2013 HE WAS 18 YEARS OLD HE WAS GOING TO SCHOOL AND WORKING. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-21
- VIN: JM1BJ246031
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ON AT LEAST 3-5 OCCASIONS THIS 2.0L ENGINE HAS SUFFERED THE EXACT SAME FATE AS NHTSA ID# 10422484. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, MISFIRING, ASSOCIATED NOISE SOUNDING LIKE A BOLT / SCREW BOUNCING AROUND IN THE ENGINE FOR MAYBE 15 SECONDS, THEN WOULD RETURN TO NORMAL. EACH TIME THERE HAS BEEN A DIFFERENT CYLINDER MISFIRE, UPON SPARK PLUG REMOVAL IT WAS FOUND THE GAP WAS CLOSED CAUSING NO SPARK. EACH TIME, A NEW PLUG WAS INSTALLED AND CORRECTED THE IMMEDIATE PROBLEM. AFTER SEEING THESE COMPLAINTS AND A RECALL REGARDING THIS ISSUE I REALIZED I'VE HAD THE SAME ISSUE. DON'T KNOW IF MY VIN # IS IN THE EFFECTED RANGE OR NOT. CAR NOW HAS 123105 MILES. WOULD HOPE THAT MAZDA WOULD COVER ANY VEHICLE WITH THIS PROBLEM. *TR
POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-18
- VIN: JM1BJ246331
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: WHEN ENGAGING SEAT BELT INTO LOCKING MECHANISM, THE MECHANISM BROKE INTO ABOUT SEVEN PIECES. IT WILL NO LONGER HOLD THE SEAT BELT. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-03
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY CAR DOES THAT AS I AM TURNING OUT THE DRIVEWAY AND GOING OVER THE BUMPS ON ROADS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-10
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA PROTG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING A LEFT TURN AT 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN SLIDING ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES IN ORDER TO SHIFT GEARS BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE CONTACT THEN ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE BUT TO NO AVAIL AND CRASHED INTO A CURB. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT THE BRAKE SENSOR WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 98,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY 03 PROTEGE HAS VICS SCREWS FALLING OUT AND ALL ISSUES THAT COMES WITH IT. MY CAR HAS BEEN PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY UNTOUCHED BECAUSE I CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS DUE TO HOW MANY TIMES MY CAR HAS HAD ISSUES AND CANNOT PASS EMISSIONS. SO I HAVE TO TURN MY TAGS IN WITHIN THE MONTH BECAUSE MAZDA WONT RECOGNIZE THE ISSUE BEING THEIR RECALL SINCE MY VIN IS OUT OF THEIR WINDOW FOR CARS BEING DEFECTIVE. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY IF SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM; WHY THOSE MONTHS WHEN WE HAVE THE SAME PARTS? MAZDA CLAIMS ITS THE TORQUE BUT OBVIOUSLY ITS THE SCREWS FALLING OUT INCLUDING THE BUTTERFLIES. WHY WAS THE TORQUE DIFFERENT THOSE 3 MONTHS? IF MAZDA IS SAYING THE RECALL IS DUE TO THE TORQUE BEING WRONG AND THE SCREWS ARE FALLING OUT THEN WHY ARE SO MANY VEHICLES THAT ARE IN AND OUT OF THE VIN NUMBER NEEDED TO BE REQUIRED FOR FREE REPAIR? WHY ARE SO MANY VEHICLES BEING CHECKED AND MECHANICS FINDING SCREWS AND BUTTERFLIES IN OTHER AREAS OTHER THAN WHERE THEY SHOULD BE? IF THE RECALL IS DUE TO TORQUE, THEN WHY ARE YOU REPLACING THE ORIGINAL SCREWS? IF TORQUE IS THE CASE WHY NOT JUST USE THE CORRECT TORQUE USAGE, YOU KNOW THE TORQUE THAT'S IN MY CAR! WHY ARE PROTEGES WITH THE VINS OUT OF THE RECALL WINDOW HAVING THE SAME CORRECTIVE ACTION WHEN THEY GO TO GET THE REPAIR AND GET THE SAME PARTS WHEN THEY HAD THE CORRECT TORQUE IN THE FIRST PLACE! ITS CLEAR THIS RECALL ISN'T ABOUT TORQUE, THIS IS ABOUT IT THE RECALL PART BEING FAULTY NO MATTER WHAT TORQUE WAS USED. WOULDN'T IT HAVE BEEN MORE COST EFFECTIVE AND EASIER FOR YOU JUST TO USE THE REQUIRED TORQUE RATHER THAN NEW PARTS SINCE YOU SAY. MAZDA DOESN'T TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY AND FIX THEIR FAULTY PART. WE NEED HELP! *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RECEPTACLE (FEMALE) ON MY 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE5 WILL NOT LATCH, THE VEHICLE HAS 147,000 MILES ON IT NOW AND IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-05
- VIN: JM1BJ225031
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA PROTEGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE COMPLETELY FRACTURED WHEN ATTEMPTING TO LATCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT PLANNED TO NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 151,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-21
- VIN: JM1BJ246831
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CAR SUFFERED A FAILURE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WHEREBY THE SCREWS INSIDE THE INTAKE HAD COME LOOSE AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. IT IS UNCLEAR AT THIS TIME IF MY CAR IS COVERED UNDER THE CURRENT RECALL 3005 C. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-24
- VIN: JM1BJ245831
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE TIGHTENING TORQUE OF THE SCREWS USED FOR MOUNTING THE INTAKE MANIFOLD SHUTTER VALVE LOOSENED AND FELL OUT (1 INTO THE SPARK PLUGS AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO PLUGS AND COILS).CAUSED MISFIRING, AFFECTING THE EXHAUST EMISSIONS. THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2006 BUT NOT FOR MY CAR'S VIN - BUT MY CAR HAD THE EXACT PROBLEM FROM THAT RECALL. WAITING TO SEE IF MAZDA WILL HONOR THIS RECALL AND PAY FOR REPAIRS/PARTS. *TR
2003 Mazda Protege recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Mazda Protege.
- 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.
- 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: 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.
- 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.
Negative 2003 Mazda Protege car reviews
Positive 2003 Mazda Protege car reviews
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I really enjoy owning and driving this vehicle. I have experienced excellent mpg, especially on the highway. My maintenance costs have been relatively low, with only scheduled maintenance for the timing belt interval, two brake jobs, and two sets of tires. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a similar type of vehicle. Although there are a few minor annoyances, such as the 'hey your seatbelt is not buckled' alarm when you are in an idle state, and the stiff ride, overall it's a great car.
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I own the Protege 5 and absolutely love it! While there may be faster sport wagons out there, the Mercedes styling and crisp handling make the Protege an absolute blast to drive. In my opinion, it's the best bargain on the market. If you're considering purchasing one, I highly recommend getting the 5-speed. And if you're not familiar with driving a clutch, don't worry - it's a skill worth learning!
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After looking at and test driving Hondas, Toyotas, and Saturns, you would have been silly not to get a Protege. Not only does it handle very well, it's comfortable, can move like any 6 cylinder in its class (mine is only 4), and has a fantastic factory-installed audio system. Its design is sleek both inside and out. You can expect to average 35-40 miles to the gallon.
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I have a paper route that covers 60 miles every night, with continuous stop and go, and a heavy load of newspapers. This car has never complained and still has excellent get up and go, even after almost 150000 miles of hard driving. It has never been in the shop for anything aside from a belt replacement and an AC recharge. This is the most reliable and solid little car I've ever owned. It doesn't have any rattles, clunks, or squeaks that would drive one crazy. I absolutely love this car!
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So far, I've had the car for less than a week and I must say, I absolutely love it! Although it could use more horsepower (I think we can all agree on that), it's an absolute blast to drive. The handling is fantastic. I find myself looking for excuses to drive it around, even for my daily commute.
Additional sources
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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 ...
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Feb 7, 2004 ... Owner's Guide: Mazdaspeed Protege Problems & Solutions ... 2003 PROTEGE 00000000 ZZZZZZZZ Symptoms and ... Welcome to a Protege's transmission. How ...
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Are you having problems with your 2003 Mazda Protege?
Unique Kuphal 2024-04-29
Although my Protege was involved in a minor accident a few days ago, it is important to note that the car is generally durable. However, within the first year of owning it, I experienced a reoccurring problem with moisture on the inside of the car during rainy weather. Additionally, the windshield would take a long time to defrost or fog up, which was not ideal for my morning commute during the winter. The weather stripping on the passenger door began to peel, and the door handle became loose one winter. Lastly, the car would rattle when stopped in traffic. Despite these issues, I am confident in the overall quality of the Protege.
Johnathon Dibbert 2024-04-09
I really enjoy the driving experience that the Protege offers, although I do have some concerns about the gas mileage. Unfortunately, even after 12000 miles, I am still not getting the mileage I was hoping for in the city, as it only goes up to 23 miles per gallon. Despite this, the overall build of the car is pretty decent and it is definitely a fun car to drive. I have noticed a few creaks developing on the front doors, but the dealer assured me that this is normal for these cars. While the Accords may offer better mileage, I still appreciate the driving experience that the Protege provides. Although, I must admit that I do feel a little shortchanged on the mileage front and perhaps I should have considered a larger car. Unfortunately, I have also noticed that the engine has become noisier, which is a little disappointing after only 12000 miles.