Engine needed to be rebuilt beacause too bad head and other problems at 40000 miles. I have met other 2002 Mazda that have had the same problem.
Stereo shorted out 4 times.
Cd player replaced 1 month after owning the car.
Shakes very badly when it get around 70+ mph so I have put new tires on the car and still hasn't fixed the problem.
Rims rusted very badly after one winter.
Exhaust system replaced and transmission shifts hard at low speeds.
Mazda customer service is great they shipped the car to me after the engine blew in New Mexico and I flew home.
Interior is nice, but they need to move the cup holders, make the cabin more sound proof and, but a power door lock button on passenger side door.
Has overall good brakes, but needs better handling at highway speeds.
If your '78 Bronco really handles better, there must be something seriously wrong with your Mazda.
I can't believe this guy is comparing his car with a vehicle that is twice the weight and size of his Protege! Come on, compare it with a Cavalier or Pinto or something, not a truck that can possibly drive over top your car!
I have a 2002 Mazda Protege' and it has 60,000 miles on it. It's been in the shop now for 2 weeks and has been to two different mechanics. The transmission has metal grindings inside as well as the transmission oil when checked. I will never purchase another Mazda. Toyota is the only way to go if you're look for value and dependability.
3 of the calipers have been replaced within the last 3 months on my Mazda Protege 2002. The anti-lock brake system was replaced and I am still having problems with the brake system. The brakes seize up and need to cool down for 30-60 minutes. before the car will even move!
I suggest the original poster find a new tire shop. +70 vibrations are imbalanced tires, period.
I would also suggest the brake-seizing guy find a new brake shop.
Seriously guys, this is one of the most reliable cars on the road. making bad reviews like this just screams "user error"
Agree that this is one reliable car. I have owned 2002 Protege LX since new (Feb 2002). Now have 50,000 miles.
Have had NO mechanical issues.
Here's my list of what's been done:
Every 3-5K Miles -- oil change.
20K Miles New wiper blades.
30K Miles New front brake pads.
40K Miles Flushed coolant and trans fluid.
48K Miles New Tires BF Goodrich Traction T/A radials.
I'd say not bad for five years of driving !!
The new tires are much better than the original Bridgestone Potenzas that came with the car. They are quieter on the highway, and handle as well as the Potenzas on dry pavement.
This spring will install an after-market stereo. Timing belt/water pump will come at 60K.
I agree about user error...
Some of these posts are...well... ridiculous! I'm on my second P5 and I love it.
If you take care of this car... it will take care of you!!
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site