1999 Mazda Protege DX 1.6
Summary:
Low price, low quality, low reliability, poor excuse for competition with the Honda Civic
Faults:
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'?
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 28th April, 2002
30th May 2002, 02:24
I have a 99 LX and my engine light came on quite frequently as well. I took it to the dealership numerous times and then they finally found the problem. They were also very friendly and apologetic. They got to know me by name and even gave me a discount on a routine brake pad replacement. But within the last month or so Mazda sent out a recall letter on the problem so they will fix that for free now if warranties are expired. I also have the problems with the seals on the back doors. Also on the rear doors the side panel on them looks like it is trying to come off. No one is ever in the back so I guess that is just poor material and manufacturing. These to me are minor problems and overall my car (now with 65,000 mile) has been very reliable and really fun to drive and own. This is my second protege and I plan on trading this one in on a 2002 ES. zoom zoom.
24th May 2002, 01:00
I had no problems with my mazda.