2001 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"Exceptionally frustrated and disappointed in this product"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Repair items, all within a 13 month period:
02/27/06 - 103,382km - Front exhaust pipe
05/26/06 - 110,000km - Ignition Coil
07/07/06 - 114,298km - A/C Pressure Switch/repair
03/16/07 - 134,454km - EGR Valve
03/23/07 - 136,017km - Transmission and clutch.
Total cost - $2283.82.
In addition to the above, I also have an unidentifiable noise in the front end when accelerating in a turning position from standstill.
Plastic on this car is frail - plastic at base of windshield and windows chips very easily if scraping ice (I'm very careful to avoid any contact), hubcaps are cracked/chipped and one is missing.
Shifting still feels stiff to me, especially 2nd gear (I've driven four other older vehicles with standard transmissions that all shifted much easier)
General comments?
Car is fun to drive, when it runs properly, but I can't believe the repair costs lately. I'm almost afraid to continue driving it at this point as it has emptied my bank account.
Recommended reviews
| I like the interior and exterior styling of the car, but I would trade it for a more reliable car |
|
| This model is a joy to drive and own, and was a terrific bargain |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 136700 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda MX6 |
| Date of Entry | 4th April, 2007 |