2005 Proton Waja 1.6 Mitsubishi from Malaysia
Summary:
A good car. Should improve on the durability of its fittings
Faults:
Power window mechanism failed after 2 years on the driver's side.
Reverse sensor failed after 2 years; had it replaced.
Brake pump started leaking after 130,000km; replaced for a whopping RM380.
Brake disc rotors; all 4 replaced after 80,000, charged 200 per disc by the thieving Proton service center, then after another 60,000km was asked to replace the front 2 disc rotors; this time RM235 per piece.
Replaced radiator after developed overheating problems in 166.000km. Also replaced thermostat, temperature sensor, and both radiator and condenser motors. All in cost was about RM800. Was done with a mechanic near my home; Proton would have charged a bomb, as they seem to have the blessing of the authorities to rip off the Malaysian Public.
General Comments:
Generally this is a very reliable car, other than the problems mentioned above, and is a pleasant and stable car to drive.
It has covered many Km in relation to its age, just touched 5 years about 1 month ago.
Parts cost should be made cheaper, shame on you Proton.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 18th January, 2011
21st May 2014, 00:36
Very fair and information review of the Waja.
I had a 2004 1.6 (before Campro) and generally I was pleased enough with it. But it had one very big problem - if the fuel level reaches the yellow light (and there's at least a quarter tank left), the engine would sometimes cut off while driving. Now this is dangerous! Just imagine this happening at night while you are on the right lane... and this has indeed happened to me a few times. In countries where driver safety is prioritised, this would have warranted a recall.
Then the cheap, rough and sharp plastics inside. What a letdown! The plastic on my father's 1994 Wira 1.5 (dashboard, doors) is way better than the Waja, which is supposed to be `premium' when compared to the former. Then the air filter's latch which has broken. Proton must give the particular vendor the boot - they are responsible for creating a bad name for Proton. Driver's power window unit is also a common issue. Very low quality!
But there are pluses. The engine and transmission are very good, and the car feels stable at 130 km/h. The seats are surprisingly comfortable.
Maintenance costs are significantly higher than a Wira and especially the Iswara. The air conditioning components, for instance. But this is "comparatively" - I also have a 1999 Mercedes E200 and the Waja "feels cheap" to maintain when compared to this Merc :-)
This Waja was stolen in Bukit Raja, Klang in 2012. Apparently, it's not too difficult to steal. Would be advisable to invest in a good quality wheel or gear lock and make it a lot more difficult for these thieves. Fortunately, I had first party insurance cover and the company (Etiqa) paid in full (RM24k).
This is a car I'd buy again should there be the need.