2002 Mazda Protege

The 2002 Mazda Protege is a compact car known for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. Engine options included a 1.6L inline-4 producing 105 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consisted of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, depending on the engine choice. Owners often praised its reliability and fun-to-drive nature, while common complaints revolved around its small size, basic interior, and potential rust issues, especially in regions with harsh winters.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2.0L engines experience excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil between changes and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: The most common fix is replacing the valve stem seals, piston rings, or the entire engine if the damage is too extensive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine mounts can wear out or crack, leading to excessive engine movement, vibrations felt in the cabin, and clunking noises, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the worn engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or hard shifts and clunking noises when the transmission is changing gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Worn Clutch
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or cracked rear trailing arm bushings can cause excessive rear-end movement, clunking noises from the rear suspension, and poor handling, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Front strut mounts tend to fail leading to the vehicle making a clunking noise when hitting bumps or turning the wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light (CEL) - Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CEL illuminates due to a faulty oxygen (O2) sensor. This can affect fuel economy and emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty O2 sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the roof, causing it to sag.
  • Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mazda Protege is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as engine oil consumption, suspension wear, and electrical problems. Rust is a common concern, especially in regions with road salt use. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission work, can be costly. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.