1996 Mazda Protege S review from North America
"Reliable and economical"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A/C compressor at 170,000 km.
General comments?
I have found this car to be very reliable and economical. The 1.5 L DOHC engine is surprisingly lively.
I have had very little trouble with this car aside from a ceased A/C compressor. The car however, and this seems to be common in Proteges, has always idled very rough, and the vibration rattles the heat shields on the exhaust system. I've clamped them down time and time again, but I can't completely alleviate the problem.
For the 96 protege Mazda switched the headlight bulbs to a 9003 which are often hard to get, and quite pricey, in comparison to the 9004.
I find working on the car quite easy, and have been doing my own brake jobs, tune ups, and fluid changes since I bought the car.
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? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 L DOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 97000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 185000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 24th November, 2001 |