1999 Mazda Protege DX review from North America
"Low price, low quality, low reliability, poor excuse for competition with the Honda Civic"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Within 2 weeks the steering wheel grip cover came loose. The wheel was replaced under warranty.
The rear door seals came away from the door causing leaking and noise.
Driver side door panel rattled constantly while driving.
Foam in the driver seat-back collapsed and the frame could painfully be felt.
Driver side lock key-flaps wore though, making the lock inoperable.
Passenger side door squeaked while driving.
Both sun-visors broke.
Air conditioning ceased operating.
A large gap developed between the rear seat-cushion and seat-back.
The engine light came on for no reason and was 'fixed' more than 8 times, before the problem was located. (At least they told me it was located).
A strong, cold draft is felt on the passenger's feet when driving during the winter.
All of the problems listed above, were fixed under warranty, with the exception of the cold draft, which is 'normal', I am told.
Since my warranty has expired, however, the problems with the car have not.
A metallic rattling sound can be heard from the front end when the car is in neutral or while shifting.
The passenger side lock is now inoperable.
The air conditioning has again, within less than 12 months, ceased operating.
The fresh-air / recirculate switch always moves to the middle of its range.
General comments?
The service department at Prima Mazda has been cooperative, courteous and apologetic. They will not repair any of the post-warranty failures free of charge.
I have just written to Mazda Canada to complain.
I would like to hear your comments if you have experienced similar misery.
Is this car what is considered a 'lemon'?
Recommended reviews
| 1999 - Protege LX (same as US ES) 1.8 Great, if you don't mind getting your hands dirty |
|
| Pretty good for the money, would like more safety |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 8000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 95000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 28th April, 2002 |