2000 Mazda Protege

2000 Mazda Protege

Overview

The 2000 Mazda Protege, a compact car known for its sporty handling and affordability, generally presented a decent reliability record for its era. While not without its quirks, many owners found it to be a dependable daily driver. Common areas of concern tended to be related to age and mileage, particularly with certain powertrain components and electrical systems. However, for its time, the Protege offered a good balance of performance and practicality, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Regular maintenance was key to ensuring its longevity, as with most vehicles of this vintage.

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Engine

1.6L DOHC (BP-Z3)

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

2.0L DOHC (FS-DE)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

4-Speed Automatic

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Hesitation during shifts, engine revs without acceleration.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, potential internal repairs or rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel.
• Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings, sway bar links, or bushings.
• Cost: $250 - $600

Electrical

Wiring Harness & Components

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, engine stalling.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Power Window Motors

• Symptoms: Windows not operating, slow movement.
• Solution: Replacement of individual power window motors or regulator assemblies.
• Cost: $150 - $350 per window

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Rust

• Symptoms: Corrosion on wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, rustproofing treatments.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting, or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

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Summary Verdict

The 2000 Mazda Protege is a reasonably reliable compact car, particularly with its manual transmission and 1.6L engine. Owners should be aware of potential issues with automatic transmissions, oil leaks on the 2.0L engine, and age-related wear on suspension components and electrical parts like alternators and power window motors. Rust can also be a concern in certain climates. Overall, with diligent maintenance and addressing common wear items, the Protege can remain a dependable vehicle, offering good value for its age.