1994 Mazda Protege

Introduction The 1994 Mazda Protege is a compact car that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was praised for its affordability, handling, and fuel efficiency. However, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 1.5L SOHC
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.8L DOHC
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Transmission Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises when shifting
    • Solution: Replace transmission bearings or gears
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace transmission fluid and filter, or rebuild transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension
  • Strut Mounts
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises when turning or braking, decreased handling
    • Solution: Replace strut mounts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension
  • No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator
  • Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical power, dimming lights, battery not charging
    • Solution: Replace alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Battery
  • Premature Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies or has reduced lifespan
    • Solution: Replace battery
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seatbelts
  • Retraction Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts not retracting properly
    • Solution: Replace seatbelt retractor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Airbags
  • Deployment Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbags not deploying when needed
    • Solution: Replace airbag module or wiring
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 1994 Mazda Protege is a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Some of the more severe problems, such as head gasket failure and transmission slipping, can be expensive to repair. However, most of the other issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost.