I'm asking long-time Protege 5 drivers, what ARE the issues with this model car as the additional miles accrue? Are electrical or mechanical failures at hand with mileage over 100,000, and are the repair possibilities worth a $2,000 five-year insurance policy (payable immediately in a lump sum?)
What I am wondering is: Is it worth $2,000 to purchase extended vehicle coverage for the next five - six years? With 103,000 on the car and putting around 10,000 extra miles per year, is it worth it?
I like the Mazda Protege 5. It is noisier and less fuel efficient than the '83 VW Rabbit and the '96 VW Golf I once owned, however, it was more affordable to purchase as a used vehicle. Comfort is about the same as the VWs. I love having a 5-door vehicle and can't imagine life without one. The car runs well and has more pick-up than either of the VWs, and it handles better.
I don't like the fact that only low-pro tires are available. They don't last as long and are noisier. Besides, when snow is covering the streets, I worry about traction and reliability of the tires.
I would also like to hear from some higher mileage drivers. I just purchased mine 2 days ago with 85,000 miles on it. I love it so far.
As for your complaint about the tires not gripping in snow:
There are snow tires for a reason... It does not matter if they are Summer tires or all seasons, if you live in a snowy climate you should DEFINITELY have snow tires on your vehicle, especially one that is not a 4x4.
This is not the fault of the vehicle... cough up the $400 for snow tires and you will never get stuck... I don't with my snow tire equipped Protege 5, and I live in Snowy Ontario.
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