Faults:

First we had to get an engine flush only a month after we got it. Then we had the locking mechanism replaced 3 times.

All the spark plugs have been replaced with all the wires.

The A/C started draining into our floor board, and the dealership fixed it 5 times until they finally decided to redirect the drain.

No hubcaps have ever stayed on.

We replaced the A/C compressor clutch.

We have had to replace both CO2 sensors.

We had to replace something 2 years ago that required the whole transmission to be disassembled. And still the check engine light is on, and we haven't been able to pass inspection because of it. Very frustrating.

Taking it the Auto-zone tomorrow to get yet another diagnostic test done to see what is wrong now. I will never ever purchase a Mazda again.

Faults:

First at all, the A/C stopped working, and just at 76000 miles the transmission starts giving problems. I took the car to the shop and they told me the transmission had to be changed. I did it.

The car was having the same problem until they found out that the problem was the computer, and the computer was replaced.

Faults:

Well, so far the vehicle has not had any mechanical problems. There is a small rush spot where the seal on the window lifted, but that is nothing. (know someone that works at a body shop.)

The vehicle has evidently been rust protected and the kilometres are all highway. Bought as a trade in from a Honda Dealer.

The sunroof squeeks as it opens, but it works.

I need to get the A/C recharged/Repaired. But honestly, I can live without. I like having the wind flowing through the car as opposed to air conditioning (My contacts dry out from the air conditioning)

General Comments:

Slow to start - but when you get in 3rd there is plenty of "Zoom Zoom"

Highway cruising speed is easily reached and passing is made effortlessly.

My vehicle has alloy wheels, spoiler and sunroof so it's a real eye catcher - I wouldn't change a thing.

Handles like a dream, the YOKOHAMA low profile tires amaze me with their gripping capability.

Faults:

Mass Airflow Sensor failed around 40K miles. Check engine light went on. I replaced the sensor myself. No problems since.

Replaced front calipers and pads at 120K miles. No problems.

General Comments:

Best car I've owned in over 30 years. Absolutely no problems except the mass airflow sensor failure at 40K miles.

I liked my 1990 Mazda Protege DX, so bought this 2000 model LX in March of 2000. Gets even better mpg than the earlier one. Averages 38mpg with 20% local, 80% highway driving.

Could use more horses when accelerating on a hill or entering an interstate, but livable. The 1.8 engine would probably have been a better choice for power - but wouldn't have given the great mpg I get with the 1.6.

So far (knock wood!) no mechanical, electrical, a/c, instrument problems.

Five speed transmission still tight.

Interior seems spacious, well appointed, and more comfortable than I expected in the Protege.

Only recommendation I'd make is that the cruise control be on the steering wheel (horn pad) itself, not on a stick on the column. But can't be done as the horn pad is the crash bag cover.

Highly recommended car!