1996 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"Very good car. Might last too long!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The ignition switch died. The muffler and pipe have been replaced. I blew the speakers. The volume knob on the radio is touchy (try pushing up on it while turning). Normal brake wear. I think I have had 3 sets of front pads. The right rear wheel well is rusting through. The windshield cracked from temp changes overnight in the fall. The check engine light is on/off intermittently.
General comments?
Honestly for a 12 year old car this thing has been solid. I am getting the best mileage now @ 33 mpg. Still handles well. One pet peeve is the rear seat belts don't roll back up and the buckle gets closed in the door (kids). I second the bad position of the cup holder. Med Coke from McD's spills into the radio buttons. And the tape player is dying.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50 miles |
| Most recent distance | 132000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Escort |
| Date of Entry | 28th February, 2008 |