2001 Proton Waja 1.6AT review from Malaysia

Driver side power window failed after 1 year. Fortunately still under warranty.

Have the car for 4 years now. I have replaced all 4 power windows. The problem part is the ridiculously expensive ABS plastic that probably cost RM30 to produce, but cost dear me RM400 (front door) and RM250 (back door).Why can these people at Proton just strengthen or thicken the plastic at the problematic area? You don't need a genius to figure that out.

I have also change all the 4 door handles. The second round of change has just started, this time around I will just change to the black one. In 6 months' time, I should have all 4 handles in black as they are 'cheaper' at RM30 compares with RM70 for the coloured one.

The next item on the list will be the 4 absorbers. Will go for Japanese absorber this time, no more playX2 with Proton parts where possible.

I guess Proton is not in serious business of making good cars with good and reliable parts. I think they are more interested in the parts replacement market or the plastic recycling.

The Waja is not a bad car to start with. It has great driving dynamic and quite a fun car to drive especially cornering. Unless you do not mind visiting the 'sour face' receptionist at the service center every now and then and pay for those cheap plastics, I would recommend this car to you. Otherwise you should just buy a Toyota Altis and pay the government an extra RM50,000 in extra sales tax (Aren't we paying too much for this supposedly 'the most reliable' car around - remember the alien advertisement?).

Maybe it is still cheaper to change the power window casing and the door handles many times over (also one way to clear the annual leave) than pay the taxes??? and the same time "Let's Recycle". Hmmm, something to ponder.