1996 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"I've had the car 12 years, not bad for a cheap car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Although we haven't had many problems with this car, the overall performance isn't what it should be.
When we are going over hills, the car bogs down and really strains to get over the hills no matter what gear it is in.
General comments?
Over the past two years, we have really developed brake problems.
We have replaced the pads often, but still would have some gosh awful noises coming from the brakes (as if parts were grinding).
The dealer told us it's just the type of pad and that nothing is wrong with the brakes.
Now we have a bad whistling sound and the dealer has diagnosed it as the brake booster.
Problem - can't get the part anywhere, not even at the dealer. They are telling me the part is about $400 and it is going to take time to get it from Japan. Gee - thanks Mazda!
Recommended Reviews:
  | Economical, practical and comfy |
| Quick, reliable, and fun to drive |
All 1996 Mazda Protege reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 Liter Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 8 miles |
| Most recent distance | 112000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda 323 |
| Date of Entry | 23rd February, 2008 |