Faults:

My Mazda Protege "check engine" light just came on at 29,917 miles. I was suspicious that this was a 30K checkup reminder and I'm sure it is, thanks to the comments I have seen here. Thank you for posting your comments, I was very upset and nervous... you have set my mind as ease.

General Comments:

Very nice little vehicle. No serious problems at all and I am very happy with it... except for the "check engine" light. I though this morning I would have to use my poor little 20 year old Toyota Pickup to get to work. The truck has never flashed a check engine light!

Faults:

Seem to have same issues as most other owners.

Front sway bar links.

Rear brake calipers.

Slight engine stumble at 3500 rpm, but drives through (vehicle is fast for a P5 in stock trim).

General Comments:

Overall value for money is excellent.

In comparison to domestic vehicles it handles well, drinks little, and has lots of room for a small compact car.

My wife loves it.

Shame about the brake issue - on 3rd caliper in 38000 (think the MI weather doesn't help).

Faults:

My transmission had to be rebuilt at 85,000 miles. The repair shop said that I should expect to do it again. They also said Mazda is aware of the problems with the transmission, but consider it the normal life expectancy of the transmission.

After it was rebuilt, it had to go back into the shop at 90,000 miles for the same repair. Thankfully, the repair was under warranty.

General Comments:

I like this car a lot, but I used to love it. It gets good gas mileage, is quick and responsive. Handles really well. I also love the convenience of being able to use it for a lot of cargo. It fits a 2' x 8' board inside. Also, I have successfully fit an entire futon bed inside it.

However, it is uncomfortable for long rides and my trust in the car has been severely reduced because of the transmission problems. My last Mazda ran for 202,000 miles and I was hoping this one would do the same.

Faults:

Right front wheel bearing needed replacement at 105,000 miles. Approximately $260.

No other significant repairs have been needed.

General Comments:

This car handles very well.

Front disc brakes need replacing every ~30,000 miles.

Gets about 25 MPG city, and a little less than 30 on the highway.

Performance is mediocre.

I am 6'4" and I can fit comfortably in the driver's seat.

Overall I am very pleased with this car. I have been very consistent with general maintenance and I feel confident about the car's continued mechanical reliability. I plan on driving this car until it dies.