1990 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"Economy car with get up and go!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Passenger side caliper leaking, replaced at 196,556 miles.
Shifter assembly is falling, needs to be replaced.
Passenger door handle inside broken.
Motor mounts worn needing to be replaced.
Passenger side wheel bearing, both ball joints and tie rod ends replaced.
Rear struts replaced by previous owner.
Radiator replaced by previous owner.
Replaced stock exhaust with a Pacesetter cat-back system.
Replaced stock spark plugs (NGK V power) and wires.
Replaced stock clutch with a 6 Puck sprung hub clutch from Clutch-Net.
General comments?
This car is quick and responsive with the stock suspension.
Replacing stock springs with H&R sport springs, 1.25 front 1.0 rear drop.
The 1.8l DOHC motor is very powerful, Mazda has built this motor to withstand abuse, they even have a stock windage tray. (prevents the connecting rods from splashing in oil)
Moonroof is nice on hot days.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 BP DOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 190000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 197167 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Probe |
| Date of Entry | 23rd February, 2003 |