1999 Mazda Protege

Introduction:

The 1999 Mazda Protege is a compact sedan known for its sporty handling, responsive performance, and affordability. It was available with various engine and transmission options:

• 1.6L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4: 110 hp, 110 lb-ft of torque
• 2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4: 130 hp, 135 lb-ft of torque
• 1.6L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 with ES Automatic Transmission: 110 hp, 110 lb-ft of torque
• 2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission: 130 hp, 135 lb-ft of torque

Owners appreciate the Protege’s fun driving experience, fuel efficiency, and reliability. However, certain issues have been reported with specific components.

Engine

1.6L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the front of the engine
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4

• Power Steering Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Heavy steering or whining noise from the power steering pump
  • Solution: Replace power steering pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, or difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Transmission

1.6L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 with ES Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping, or transmission not engaging
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the transmission pan
  • Solution: Replace transmission pan gasket or seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Clutch Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power while driving, especially during acceleration
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noise from the front suspension when turning or driving over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, or battery warning light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog lights not working or staying on constantly
  • Solution: Replace fog light switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Clock Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clock display not working or showing incorrect time
  • Solution: Replace clock unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working or operating slowly
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350

Summary

Overall, the 1999 Mazda Protege is a reliable and fun-to-drive vehicle. However, some common issues affect certain models, such as engine gasket leaks, power steering pump failure, transmission solenoid failure, and suspension component failures. These issues vary in severity and cost to fix, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive, while others can be more serious and require significant investment.