2003 Mazda Protege ES GT review from North America
"Love it, but hate the rust problem"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Started malfunctioned at 30,000 km
Radio button fell off going over railway tracks
Rust on doors, quarter panels and rocker panels.
General comments?
So far I really like this car except for the constant rust problem. Rust will develop in the middle of a panel, there is no chip. I have had all four doors repainted, both rear quarter panels repainted and now I have rust on two doors and both rocker panels. Mazda is covering this under the warranty with out too much issue.
However, no explanation as to why it is happening. I have checked used car lots and found this problem on most 2002 and 2003 protege 5's. I suggest all owners check their Mazda for this problem.
I keep my car in a garage and don't drive it in winter, so road salt is not the cause.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 150 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 41600 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 26th September, 2007 |