1998 Mazda Protege
Introduction:
The 1998 Mazda Protege is a compact sedan offered with three engine options: a 1.6L inline-4 (BP-ZE), a 1.8L inline-4 (BP-4W), and a 1.8L inline-4 with variable valve timing (BP-6D). The 1.6L engine produces 103 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.8L engines generate 122 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque (125 horsepower and 128 lb-ft for the BP-6D). The Protege is available with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners praise the Protege for its sharp handling, comfortable interior, and low maintenance costs. However, some owners have reported various issues with the vehicle.
Engine
1.6L BP-ZE
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, decreased engine performance, rough idling. Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Head Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Overheating, white smoke from exhaust, loss of coolant, decreased engine performance. Solution: Replace head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
Timing Belt Failure: Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine stoppage, catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace timing belt and associated components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: NHTSA #99V054000
1.8L BP-4W
No Issues Found
1.8L BP-6D
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine performance issues, rough idling, poor fuel economy. Solution: Replace VVT solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Shifting Difficulty: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises. Solution: Replace worn or damaged transmission components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
4-Speed Automatic
Shift Solenoid Failure: Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifts, no engagement. Solution: Replace shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Suspension
Strut Mount Bearing Failure: Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, vibration in steering wheel. Solution: Replace strut mount bearings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Electrical
Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, charging system light on dashboard. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
Ignition Coil Failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, loss of power. Solution: Replace ignition coil. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
Exterior
Rust on Undercarriage: Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on metal components underneath the vehicle. Solution: Apply anti-rust treatment, repair rusted areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
Interior
Climate Control Malfunction: Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heating not working properly, temperature regulation issues. Solution: Diagnose and repair/replace faulty climate control components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
Summary
Overall, the 1998 Mazda Protege has a range of potential issues spanning various components, including the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, and exterior. While some issues can be relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their decision-making.