2003 Mazda Protege

The 2003 Mazda Protege is a compact car known for its sporty handling and reliability, offering a fun driving experience. It was available with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.8L inline-4 producing 122 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People appreciate the Protege for its nimble handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Common complaints include relatively basic interior features and potential rust issues in certain climates.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Engine

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss. Visible oil around the valve cover is a telltale sign.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• MAF Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance, rough idling, and potential stalling. The check engine light will usually illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L Inline-4 Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, or harsh shifting can occur due to failing shift solenoids within the automatic transmission. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and rough shifting can indicate a failing transmission mount.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Broken or Sagging Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride height, especially in the rear, uneven tire wear, and clunking noises can indicate broken or sagging coil springs.
  • Solution: Replace the affected coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises such as clunking, popping, or creaking sounds during suspension movement. Poor steering response and loose feeling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts and potentially the struts if they are worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, and a dead battery. The battery light on the dashboard may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Rear Quarter Panels and Wheel Wells)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the rear quarter panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage, particularly in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair (patching, welding, or panel replacement) or rust preventative measures (undercoating, rust inhibitors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ per panel (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console latch mechanism breaking, preventing the console from closing properly.
  • Solution: Replace the latch or the entire center console assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mazda Protege, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to watch out for. Engine issues like valve cover gasket leaks and MAF sensor failures are common, especially on the 2.0L engine. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, can arise from shift solenoid or mount failures. Suspension problems like broken springs and worn strut mounts are also possibilities. Rust, especially in certain climates, is a significant concern. Interior problems are less common but can occur. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to repair can range from a few dollars for minor fixes to several hundred or even thousands for more extensive repairs like rust remediation. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect any used 2003 Protege for these potential problems.