22nd Jul 2008, 13:37

I own a 2002 Mazda Protege 5. The ABS and brake light recently has come on and remains on. My mechanic attached a diagnostic machine and it does not register any numbers. I have continually had to replace brake pads, calipers and rotors. I have taken this car in for regular service and the mechanic works on another Mazda Pro 5 in town that is experiencing the same brake problems.

4th Aug 2008, 14:36

I have a 2000 Mazda Protege LX. Recently I had the ABS and Brake lights come on at the same time and stay on - the brakes were fine (I just had the inspection done) so when the mechanic looked at the brakes he determined that the ABS Unit in the front right was opening, but not closing - thus tripping the lights on the dash. A NEW PART WAS 1400.00. AVOID BUYING THAT PART, Even the dealer felt bad for me when I called and asked for a pricing. I managed to find one used from a junk yard for 200.00. Altogether, with an oil change and some brake line work it cost me 500.00. Certainly better than the 2000.00 quote from the Mazda dealer.

3rd Sep 2008, 23:07

I have EXACTLY the same problem as the person who wrote the Aug 4 posting (2000 Mazda Protege LX, the brake warning lights are stuck on, and the ABS pump is kaput). Recently, I moved to Alberta and had to get an out of province inspection done. The car failed because the ABS does not work (it has not for 4 years and I am still living), although the brakes are all new and in excellent working order.

Does anyone have tips on how to save on repair costs? Is ABS a requirement on ABS enabled vehicles in Alberta?

9th Oct 2008, 09:12

I have a 2003 Protege 5. I thought I was buying a great car, but I am doubtful of that when I look back on what I have been spending my money on. I like to be getting good customer, and service department service and have not been satisfied at all by the dealer. I hear and have read most peoples comments, and it seems as though most of us have the same problems.

I know there is regular maintenance, brakes, tires, oil changes, but then there is the Oh you have to replace your oil pan, and the mid part of your muffler as it attaches to the engine... I am not mechanically inclined, so not wanting to pay the hefty price went and got a second opinion. Yes that stuff was all wrong with it, so I got it done, and did go back to the dealer for it, because I didn't have faith in the other shop. But it gets better, the dealer proceeds to tell me that I need an additional 250+ of work done, Merry Christmas to me. I needed rear sway bars, replaced. Come on, I was just in here 2 weeks ago, what are you guys not checking the car over like you say you do!

I have also had to replace the EGR valve I believe it is, luckily they called it an extended warranty, probably because I complain every time I am in there for service, but my car was idling very low, and would stall out in parking lots and traffic lights...it's an AUTOMATIC!

I can honestly say I do not think I will be buying another Mazda, don't get me wrong, I love the way it drives, but I dread taking it anywhere for service!

17th Oct 2008, 18:23

I purchased a used Mazda Pro 2002, believing that this was a Japanese car and it will not give me any trouble for long time. I purchased this car before three months and I did not find any problem. But yesterday when I drove the car around 40 km on highway and then entered into the city, my car started shaking. I thought that there is some problem with plug or garbage in the fuel pipe. I went to mechanic and after checking with his device, he replied me that there is problem either with the plug or with the coil. Still I have not fixed the problem. And I don't know what is the solution. If any one knows, please post it on this site.

10th Nov 2008, 22:34

Anyone with a Mazda Protege 5 that's stalling and dying, ABS and Brake lights on, etc., I had that problem, and I got it fixed:

I took it to two mechanics who had no idea, but charged me a handful for their tests anyhow. Then finally took it to a friend who took the time and effort to figure out the REAL problem. Evidently, the car was filtering exhaust back through the engine. That was layman's terms at least. So, if you take it to a mechanic, maybe suggest that as being the problem?

Cheers, good luck all!

18th Oct 2011, 09:23

Hi, I am having the same problem, but I am wondering what you mean by exhaust fumes going back into the engine? Can you please help me understand what it is I have to look for? Thanks, Andrew.

19th Oct 2011, 14:09

I am not 22.34, but that person's comment must refer to a fault in the EGR System. EGR stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. Essentially the exhaust gases are inert gases, and reduce the combustion temperature so that less nitrous oxide is created. There is a valve that should only open under certain conditions.

8th Jun 2012, 21:45

We own a 2002 Mazda Protege 5. Just replaced both CV joints and wheel bearings. But still makes a noise when braking. There is also a rattling noise. Has anyone had this problem?

9th Jun 2012, 09:04

Every time you brake, you give your car/truck/SUV a major workout... the brakes have a lot components to them... but it also affects steering, struts/shocks, engine mounts, front suspension parts, and drive shafts. Any one of these can cause noises when you brake.

You might be better off leaving it alone... sometimes taking things apart puts other smaller pieces at risk when you put it back together.

11th Jun 2012, 21:31

Thank you.

12th Jun 2012, 09:00

I am sorry to say, but "leave it alone" is not good advice here. The owner should take it to a shop and tell them of the noise when braking. It is probably caused by worn brake pads and rotors. A thorough brake job should fix it.