2002 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"Great car if you use synthetic oil"
General comments?
I have owned my car for 2.5 years. A Protege LX. I have put 150 000km in that time.
Here is what I do different in order to preserve the motor. I use supreme gas and use best synthetic oil available. I only change oil every 10 000kms because it is synthetic.
Motor runs great at 245 000kms. No gasket leaks or anything. It is bad on stabiliser link bushings, but that is cheap and easy fix. Well, cheap considering the car runs great.
I have never changed or did any maintenance on rear brakes or any wheel bearing. Front brakes I changed pads and rotors once.
Yes I replaced other wear and tear parts, but have I have 245 000kms.
So my recommendations are use synthetic oil and get a mechanic you can trust. Don't trust anybody that says, I can fix this the quick way.
Oh I forgot, of course I had problems with the EGR valve. All I can say is find someone who can plug the damn thing. There is no other fix for that one. I did it. Runs great!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L Manual |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 105000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 245000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 29th September, 2009 |