1995 Mazda Protege

Introduction:

The 1995 Mazda Protege is a compact car that offers a reliable and fuel-efficient option for everyday driving. It comes standard with a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 1.8-liter inline-4 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission are also available. The Protege is known for its affordability, maneuverability, and decent fuel economy, but some common issues have been reported.

Engine

1.5-Liter Inline-4 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leakage from the engine compartment, overheating, and rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $450
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil or coolant leaking from the engine compartment, overheating, and engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stops running abruptly, no compression, or a loud noise from the engine compartment.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8-Liter Inline-4 Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shift Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting, or a loose gear lever.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifts, or a lack of response when shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar End Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the front end, loose steering feel, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering lights, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start, or a clicking sound when attempting to start.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the metal components of the undercarriage, such as the frame and suspension parts.
  • Solution: Rust treatment and prevention measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard panel.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows do not roll up or down smoothly or at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 1995 Mazda Protege is a generally reliable vehicle, it has some known issues that can be costly to fix. The engine and transmission problems, in particular, can be significant expenses. However, most of the issues can be addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. The severity and cost of the issues vary, but it is essential to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing or owning a Protege.