2001 Mazda Protege

The 2001 Mazda Protege is a compact sedan that was known for its sporty handling and decent fuel economy. Engine options included a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 105 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People generally liked the Protege for its fun-to-drive nature and reliability, while common dislikes included its relatively small size and some cheap interior plastics.

Engine

1.6L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, causing the engine to run poorly, stall, or have reduced power. A check engine light will likely illuminate with codes related to the MAF sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oxygen sensors can fail, causing the engine to run poorly, reduced fuel economy, and the check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the affected oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission may experience hard shifting, delayed engagement, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. This may involve replacing solenoids, valve body components, or the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front and rear control arm bushings are prone to wear and tear, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts can fail, causing noises such as clunking, creaking, or squeaking, especially when turning the steering wheel or driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate erratically due to a failing power window motor.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters or salty road conditions. Rust can form on the undercarriage, rocker panels, and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Prevention with rust inhibitors and regular washing can help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially in areas with high sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard, use a dashboard cover to prevent further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the repair method

Summary

The 2001 Mazda Protege has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil leaks and mass air flow sensor failure are possible with the engine, and the automatic transmission can suffer from shifting problems. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts can wear out. Electrical problems can arise with power windows, and rust is a common concern, especially in certain climates. The cracked dashboard is another potential issue. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be more costly. Overall, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are advisable before purchasing a 2001 Mazda Protege.