2000 Mazda Protege

The 2000 Mazda Protege is a compact car known for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. Engine options included a 1.6L DOHC inline-4 producing 105 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.8L DOHC inline-4 producing 122 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque (ES model). Both engines were available with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Protege’s responsive steering and relatively low price point. Common complaints revolved around rust issues, especially in areas with harsh winters, and some reliability concerns with certain components as the car aged.

Engine

1.6L DOHC Inline-4

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover, leading to burning oil smells and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle, stalling, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L DOHC Inline-4

• Oil Leaks (Various Locations)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover, oil pan, or crankshaft seals.
  • Solution: Replace the affected seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, or transmission replacement/rebuild in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Neutral Safety Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car won’t start in Park or Neutral, but may start in other gears.
  • Solution: Replace the neutral safety switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises, vibrations, and diminished handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting, or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Wells, Rocker Panels, Underbody)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on wheel wells, rocker panels, underbody components.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handles (Interior)
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles breaking or becoming loose.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Mazda Protege presents a mixed bag in terms of reliability. Engine issues tend to be relatively minor (gasket leaks, IAC valve), but transmission problems, especially with the automatic, can be more costly. Suspension components like control arm bushings are typical wear items for a car of this age. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions with road salt. Interior issues like cracked dashboards are cosmetic but can detract from the vehicle’s overall appearance. While some repairs are inexpensive, rust repair or transmission work can be costly, making a thorough inspection essential before purchasing a 2000 Protege.