1992 Mazda Protege DX 1.6 from North America

Summary:

Unreliable, don't waste your money!!!

Faults:

So many things, I don't noe where to start:

1. Distributor - I replaced the distributor which cost $800 from Mazda. I had to replace it because it was the main problem behind my car leaving me STRANDED IN THE ROAD EVERY WEEK!!! The car would just come to a stop (engine would just stop) and the car wouldn't start again. I've spent so much money to tow this piece of crap.

2. Won't start in cold weather.

3. 02 sensors replaced and the throttle body as well.

General Comments:

Looks bad, drives bad, not reliable and a waste of money for a car that's old.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd May, 2007

1992 Mazda Protege 1.8L SOHC 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

The car that changed me a Mazda enthusiast

Faults:

Timing belt needed replacement

Stereo stopped working (Panasonic)

Rust around windshield, wheel wells.

General Comments:

This car was the first car I ever drove. It made me realize that I was cut out to be an auto enthusiast. The Protege had a SOHC engine with a modest 103hp, but a respectable 111 lb. ft torque, which gave it great power delivery. Never, in its 10 years of faithful service, did it fail to meet our requirements. We drove it to a total of 418,840kms on its original engine and transmission, but decided to send it to auto-heaven due to significant rust (couldn't be helped because we never took care of the body).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th August, 2006

1992 Mazda Protege DX 1.6 from North America

Summary:

Great first car

Faults:

My clutch burned out in 2002.

I eventually had to replace the whole exhaust around 2003.

My fan belt and alternator both went in winter 2004.

The paint on the car has been wearing and chipping ever since I bought it.

General Comments:

This car, for my first car at 16 was great. It has been quite reliable.

The biggest problem is the paint job, and a lot of 92 Proteges have the same problem.

I've raced my car many times, and won, even against newer cars. It has no shut off speed, and even at 100+ it rides very smooth.

I drive hard, and fast and other than typical maintenance, (which I'm not too good on...) I've had no real problems with this car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2005

1992 Mazda Protege LX 1.8 DOHC from North America

Summary:

I do not recommend

Faults:

When I first got the car both the front CV Shafts had to be replaced.

Not even two months later both the calibers had to be replaced.

Then I had to replace the radiator because it was leaking.

Now I have to replace the window regulator and switch, also I have to replace the calibers, and my transmission.

General Comments:

I do not like these cars anymore. I don't think I will ever by one of these cars again. I have had nothing, but problems with this car since I bought it. I have had to spend more in parts than this car is worth.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 3rd May, 2005

4th May 2005, 09:28

I understand your frustration, but the car does have nearly 200,000 miles on it. Most cars don't quite make it that long.

5th May 2005, 20:10

It sucks to be stuck with repair bills, but considering the car is 14 years old with 200,000 miles, those faults are fairly standard. The automatic transmission on first generation Protege's wasn't the best unit around, so getting 200k out of one isn't all bad. You can get a used one fairly cheaply I'm sure. CV joints and brakes are standard wear and tear.

1992 Mazda Protege DX 1.8 from North America

Summary:

Great, bullet proof little car!

Faults:

Replaced the CV Joints.

Gave it a full tune up.

Replaced the timing belt.

Hole in radiator caused by road debris.

General Comments:

This is a secondary vehicle to my new Kia Spectra 5 and I enjoy driving the Protege as much as the new car. The Protege has 210,000 miles on it and shows no signs of stopping. Starts every time and has never left me stranded anywhere. It does not leak or burn any oil. Still on the original clutch which will need to be replaced shortly as it is wearing thin. The cabin is relatively quiet considering it's age and the interior pieces have stood the test of time. I paid $1500 for it in 2002 and it was money well spent.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd March, 2005