1999-2003 Mazda Protege: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Mazda Protege includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mazda Protege .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
The automatic transmission may not shift out of second or third gear due to a defective solenoid (the system stores the wrong trouble code often making diagnoses incorrect). The powertrain control module was being replaced under the standard warranty. (1999)
Battery:
The battery may go dead due to excessive current drains from memories in components (like the radio memory or engine control computer). (1999)
Check-engine light:
Drivability problems accompanied by check-engine light often due to EGR exhaust passages clogged. (1999-2001)
Cruise control:
If the brake light switch goes out of adjustment, the cruise control may quit working. (1999-2000)
Doors:
The power door locks may malfunction if contacts get wet or corrode. Countermeasure switches with rubber seals are available and were being installed under the normal warranty. (1999)
Doors:
The doors may unintentionally lock upon exit. Redesigned switches are available. (1999)
Doors:
The door weather strip comes off on some early production cars and must be glued in place. (1999)
Exhaust system:
A booming noise from the exhaust system is corrected by installing a stiffener over the front muffler and a damper weight near the rear muffler. (1999-2000)
Keys:
The key may be hard to insert or turn in the door lock because the flap breaks off and falls into the lock cylinder. (1999)
Rough idle:
Drivability problems accompanied by check-engine light often due to EGR exhaust passages getting clogged. (1999-2001)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $810 |
| Alternator | $295 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $925 |
| Brakes | $220 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $475 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,200 |
| Exhaust System | $355 |
| Radiator | $435 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,300 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $265 |
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