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2003 Mazda Protege repairs by problem area

Engine (39%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (3%)

Brakes and Traction Control (6%)

Suspension and Steering (25%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (17%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (8%)

Other (1%)

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Chart based on 454 repairs.

See TSBs and recalls for the 2003 Mazda Protege.

2003 Mazda Protege repair cost distribution

$2500+ (2%)

$1000 - $2499 (5%)

$500 - $999 (12%)

$100 - $499 (38%)

< $100 (43%)

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Chart based on 356 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

See repairs for all Mazda Protege model years.

Mazda Protege5 in British Columbia, Canada Mar 2009 - Jun 2011
Sep 2009 98580 mi	CEL, replaced O2 sensor.
Jun 2010 102300 mi C $4500	ABS sensor warning

Mazda Protege5 in Kentucky, United States Oct 2013 - Jun 2016
Aug 2015 144000 mi US $100	Sputtering at low rpm. Replaces ignition coils, wires and plugs, problem solved
Mar 2016 148000 mi US $550	Alternator bad, replaced.

Mazda Protege5 in Texas, United States Aug 2008 - Mar 2010
Dec 2008 87000 mi US $17	License plate light housing plastic broken, so that bulb (which still lit) dangled down by license plate.

Mazda Protege5 in Utah, United States Jun 2013 - Apr 2014
Apr 2014 181000 mi	Nut welded to subframe above control arm snapped off, control arm had excessive play

Mazda Protege5 in Manitoba, Canada Jan 2011 - Sep 2014
Feb 2011 90334 mi C $50	Replaced air intake boot, it snapped. Fresh air intake boot snapped; was giving off p0171 code. Ordered the part off autopartsway.ca and installed. Supposedly is a common problem with these cars.
Mar 2011 90644 mi C $800	Car making clicking sound for a few days. Then screeching metal sound. Lifted car up and wheel not spinning. Took to repair shop and driver side bearing, hub, and lower control had to be replaced. Hit a bad pothole...
Jul 2011 92380 mi C $40	Car was rattling over bumps. Someone suggested checking the sway bar endlinks for play. Both rear ones had play so I replaced them. Rattles went away!
Aug 2011 92880 mi C $130	Took car in for an alignment since I replaced suspension parts. Could not align because of bad pass. control arm/ball joint. Replaced balljoint/control arm; the boot was gone and the joint was freely wiggling around. All good now, aligned.
Mar 2012 97960 mi C $30	Car turned out a P0303 code; cylinder 3 misfire. Tried the easiest repair first, replacing ignition wires. It worked and fuel economy shows its back to normal.
Jul 2013 105400 mi C $180	Drove down a dirt road getting to cabin, bearing went. Same trip also destroyed the passenger side sway bar end link.
Jun 2014 108500 mi C $56	Took car to bodyshop to assess extreme rust. Told body of car probably has 1.5 years before unsafe to drive....
Sep 2014 108500 mi	Extreme rust on body. Hole in floor of car so just decided to give up.

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Nov 2007 - Aug 2011
Nov 2008 83700 mi C $10	Some rust in the back wheel well.
Sep 2009 88040 mi	only loose heat shield causing slight rattle. car drives like new!
Dec 2010 93620 mi C $200	a small section of the exhaust pipe was replaced due to a rattling noise issue. the car is as reliable as ever! :) great car.
Apr 2011 97340 mi C $320	rear sway links made creaking sound, dealership replaced.
Aug 2011 101060 mi	need new rear brakes, bad front wheel bearings, bent front rim, alternator belt needs replacing some rust

Mazda Protege5 in Georgia, United States Jun 2007 - Dec 2014
Jan 2010 36000 mi US $112	Rubber intake snorkel cracked with age, needed to be replaced.
Jul 2013 56000 mi US $200	Driver's window regulator broken- was replaced.
Feb 2014 56600 mi US $150	Leaky head gasket. Replaced gasket.

Mazda Protege5 in Illinois, United States Aug 2007 - Jul 2013
Nov 2008 57000 mi US $300	Left wheel bearing shot, replaced with new one. $300 including labor and parts.
Nov 2010 88000 mi US $450	Right wheel bearing failed with loud grinding noise. Replaced just under 2 years since left side wheel bearing needed replacement.
Jan 2013 92000 mi US $220	Replaced alternator. Car only ran once every 1-2 weeks, draining battery. Noticed alternator died after jump starting -- not sure if it was due to a drained battery, jumping procedure, or failed alternator.
Apr 2013 107200 mi US $150	Can't remember, something about the sway bar end links being worn/broken. Made squeaking noise over larger bumps.

Mazda Protege5 in Massachusetts, United States Aug 2007 - Apr 2010
Feb 2009 80000 mi US $75	1 headlight bulb replaced. 1 front wheel bearing, 2 rear sway bar bushings replaced.
Mar 2009 82000 mi US $100	Driver side front wheel bearing replaced.
Aug 2009 86000 mi	Ignition Coils needed replacing
Jan 2010 89200 mi US $10	Both headlight bulbs blew. Replaced with new.

Mazda Protege5 in North Carolina, United States Nov 2004 - Jun 2018
Jan 2004 15000 mi	Front suspension bushing replaced under warranty
Nov 2004 25000 mi	Crankshaft angle sensor replaced under warranty
Apr 2012 116000 mi US $130	battery replacement
Jul 2012 118300 mi US $250	Engine mount replaced
Apr 2015 155800 mi US $200	replacement of door lock relay
Jan 2017 155300 mi US $1200	Radiator was replaced after leak was detected
Jun 2017 184000 mi US $200	Replaced window regulator
Aug 2017 186000 mi US $800	Broken brake line (fluid leak). Caliper also replaced.
Jun 2018 189000 mi US $600	Starter needed replacement

Mazda Protege5 in British Columbia, Canada Dec 2012 - Sep 2017
Jan 2016 164780 mi C $100	Air intake tube cracked

Mazda Protege5 in Arizona, United States Sep 2012 - Jul 2015
Aug 2012 113500 mi US $400	Engine would temporarily cut out while driving. Took to shop where it was diagnosed as a bad cam positioning sensor. The faulty part was replaced.
Sep 2012 114000 mi US $1800	Car overheated on road trip to CA, had it towed to local repair shop. Diagnosed blown head gasket and radiator. Upon replacing head gasket they discovered that head was warped. Replaced head with a refurbished one.
Oct 2012 114700 mi US $738	Horrible engine noise, removed timing cover to investigate, tensioner pulley and springs were shot and cover was broken. Mechanic to replace pulley, springs and belt.
Jul 2014 136700 mi US $75	Latch inside driver's seat-belt broke so that seatbelt would no longer fasten. Had to remove driver's seat & replace entire latch assembly.
Jul 2015 149000 mi US $250	Car began idling low, near-stalling at stops, overheating. Shop performed diagnostics & determined that both engine head & block had severe wear related to poor workmanship on prior head replacement, not fixable, must replace engine.

Mazda Protege5 in Maryland, United States Mar 2011 - Jan 2014
Apr 2011 157000 mi US $600	Rear brake (left) caliper was leaking. Replaced both calipers. Valve cover gasket was replaced. It was leaking a lot of oil.
Sep 2011 167000 mi US $700	Front left caliper seized. Rotor started to warp. Replaced both calipers and rotors. Prevented overheating of wheel bearings.
Oct 2013 212300 mi US $70	Oil leak in Cylinder 3. From compression test, believed to be from oil ring on the piston, not from the valve stem seals.

Mazda Protege5 in Illinois, United States Apr 2011 - Sep 2015
Jun 2011 65000 mi US $875	stabilizer bar
Jul 2014 72200 mi US $975	Control arm two front engine mounts
May 2015 75600 mi US $150	stuttering; replaced plugs, wires, coils
Aug 2015 76300 mi US $600	Two front control arms

Mazda Protege5 in Virginia, United States Nov 2010 - Jun 2016
Dec 2012 109000 mi US $40	Fresh air intake hose replaced - had split. Air box retaining snaps cracking, fixed with zip ties. O2 sensor (pre-cat) failed
Apr 2014 126700 mi US $85	Rear brake caliper froze, was jamming brakes on
May 2015 145000 mi US $300	Alternator failed. Bolt hiding it was rusted on
Mar 2016 165000 mi US $300	Front calipers were frozen

Mazda Protege5 in Illinois, United States Mar 2011 - Sep 2017
Jun 2011 93000 mi US $2972	Engine overhaul. I must have dropped something into #4 cylinder as it began consuming oil after the 90K tuneup.
Apr 2012 111000 mi US $460	Bracket on strut where stabilizer bar link connects broke. Replaced both struts and both links. Since one strut broke, I split the cost of parts. If you think we should consider both struts, cost of repair with parts and labor is $460
Apr 2013 133000 mi US $247	Right front wheel bearing failing.
Jul 2013 139000 mi US $79	Replaced suspect ignition coil and plug wires
Aug 2013 141400 mi US $550	Both Strut mounts and the passenger control arm with integrated ball joint was replaced.
Dec 2013 150000 mi US $340	Alternator failure
Jun 2014 161000 mi US $71	Replaced motor mounts Replaced sway bar end links. Clunking and squeeking observed
Jul 2014 161800 mi US $110	Replaced Lower Control Arm
Dec 2014 169000 mi US $260	Wheel bearing
Jul 2015 181300 mi US $600	Wheel bearing replaced again Control arm replaced again
Jan 2016 173800 mi US $104	Short in fuel injection system
Apr 2017 218617 mi US $190	Passenger rear caliper stuck. Replaced caliper, pads, rotor, brake hose, flushed fluid and bleed system.
Jun 2017 220000 mi	A previously replaced ignition coil failed. Obtained warranty replacement part and replaced.
Jul 2017 223681 mi US $679	Replace A/C compressor

Mazda Protege5 in Florida, United States Apr 2011 - Mar 2018
May 2012 141700 mi US $550	replaced both front wheel bearings, along with front springs.
May 2014 164000 mi US $250	starter went bad, bought starter that ended up being for an automatic, had to return it for manual trans starter. 3.5 hours repair.
Nov 2015 180000 mi US $600	spun timing belt, replaced timing belt and waterpump. first timing belt change for this car @ 180,000 !! previous owner lied when he said belt changed @ 100,000 spun timing belt, replaced timing belt and waterpump. first timing belt change for this car @ 180,000 !! previous owner lied when he said belt changed @ 100,000
Feb 2016 181000 mi US $460	replaced struts, strut mounts and tie rods. (accident repairs below) rear stabilizer, ladder brace.
Jun 2016 181000 mi US $60	drivers CV axle bad
Nov 2016 182300 mi US $200	alternator went bad, replaced alternator and belt.
Feb 2018 185000 mi US $200	vehicle wont start, new starter, new alternator, new battery, started and ran fine after previous repair on electrical work. issue is either Alarm wiring or bad ignition. mechanic looking at it again this week, will update after long story short, aftermarket amp wire protective coating rubbed through to bare wire, killed old alt, replaced too late to save battery (less than 1 yr old new) and blew several fuses at the same time. cascade effect failure, started at amp, killed amp and alternator, which in turn killed battery. bad alt meant more draw on batt, once alt was replaced, bad batt overtaxed new alt... now working on a non start issue dealing with either ignition (known to go bad) or alarm wiring.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States May 2011 - Oct 2011
Jun 2011 72000 mi US $200	lighter outlet did not work
Oct 2011 76000 mi US $300	Car overheated, need thermostat

Mazda Protege5 in Georgia, United States Sep 2014 - Jul 2018
Oct 2016 186000 mi US $300	Replaced upstream catalytic converter.
Dec 2016 194000 mi US $130	Replaced left rear brake caliper because it was sticking and grabbing the brake rotor. Like a typical Protege5, the caliper was frozen which resulted in it not being able to be adjusted.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States May 2012 - Dec 2014
Nov 2014 117300 mi US $250	Replace all motor mounts. All of them were in bad condition (cracked and torn)

Mazda Protege5 in Ohio, United States Mar 2012 - Oct 2014
Apr 2012 152000 mi US $1200	rear calipers were seized and needed to be replaced coolant leak at thermostat induction cleaning to remove carbon build-up
Jan 2014 US $969	Right rear strut mount broke, needed to replace strut mounts, struts and sway bars links. Also repaired exhaust system hangers that had broken.
Sep 2014 179000 mi US $552	Alternator stopped working, shredded belt, needed to be towed

Mazda Protege5 in North Dakota, United States May 2011 - Jun 2022
Feb 2012 111000 mi US $38	Error code 171. O2 sensor code. Discovered cracks in air cleaner intake hose(connects air filter box to engine). Youtube demo available. Symptom check engine light -> Shudder when accelerating hard. Problem could destroy motor if not fixed
May 2015 119300 mi US $70	Valve Cover Gasket started to seep. While I have it apart. VC gasket, plugs, and PCV valve will be replaced. Also going to fix the rust spots on the rear fenders.
May 2017 129000 mi US $300	Long story short... If your car suddenly doesn't start make sure to check your factory alarm has power... It has a downward facing fuse that can fall out, and it isn't on the circuit diagram for the car. Now I have real issues induced by trying to figure out why my car wouldn't start.
Aug 2017 129000 mi US $250	Water pump was weeping. - Replaced water pump with full timing belt kit. Cam and crank seals replaced. Cam and Crank senors also installed as the crank sensor was damaged from getting soaked with coolant for an extended period of time. Also replaced a defective starter, but that was bad when I purchased it.
May 2018 131000 mi US $80	Fuel Pump failed to start. Replaced fuel pump.... still didn't start after much troubleshooting I found that the resistance on the signal side of the fuel pump relay was too high to trigger the relay. The issue is either in the ECU or the wire between the ECU and the fuel pump relay on the negative side. I made a circuit to bypass the ECU with 15 dollars worth of parts from the surplus center. (youtube - "Mazda benjaminlately" for a detailed video on to deal with it.
Oct 2021 134 mi US $150	Rear passenger caliper was sticky. It caused premature failure of the break pads. I replaced the entire caliper assembly due to excessive corrosion. I keep this car as a backup car and maybe drive it once a month. Some of the things that go wrong with it are just from sitting.

Mazda Protege5 in Georgia, United States Apr 2007 - Mar 2010
Jan 2007 80000 mi US $2500	replaced motor with one that has 20000 miles on it., it was a cracked head that led to all this.
May 2007 82000 mi US $3300	Bought the car, found out that it had a blown head gasket. To replace the gasket was going to cost 1100 bucks. It also needed a new clutch and pressure plate. Which was going to be another 500 bucks plus parts on top of that leaving the totol cost around
Jun 2007 84000 mi US $169	3 Blown motor mounts, replaced them with upgraded ones from AWR

Mazda Protege5 in Virginia, United States Feb 2008 - Aug 2019
Dec 2011 122000 mi US $15	Passenger rear door lock actuator died. Swapped in replacement part.
Nov 2013 143400 mi	Front passenger side shock was leaking and clunking. The shocks (Tokico Illumina) have 100K miles on them, so installed old one that was laying around and it is fixed now.
Mar 2014 147000 mi US $70	Driver's side window regulator broke. Bought replacement and installed it.
May 2014 153000 mi US $110	Strut top mount came off and ended up replacing the strut top mount and the strut itself.
Aug 2014 156000 mi US $200	Replaced front and rear wheel bearings.
Sep 2014 156000 mi US $60	Replaced rear O2 sensor.
Dec 2015 165000 mi US $20	CEL, changed spark plugs and replaced fuel injector.
Mar 2016 167000 mi US $26	CEL P0171, caused by a cracked air intake boot.
Sep 2016 169000 mi US $15	Replaced rear passenger power lock actuator.
Nov 2016 169900 mi	Replaced front engine motor mount.
Jul 2017 172000 mi	Replaced rear sway bar endlinks. Excessive rust build-up on the rotors, so removed them, sanded them done and re-installed them.
Aug 2017 174500 mi US $75	Oil Cooler Hose rusted through and leaked out the power steering fluid. Replaced with a new hose and new PS fluid, and no further issues.
Dec 2017 176000 mi US $20	Replaced rubber clutch hose that had cracked and was leaking brake fluid, resulting in no clutch and the brake light came on as well as the clutch and brake use the same fluid reservoir. The hose is about $17, and took about 30 min to replace, then topped up the fluid again and good to go.
Mar 2018 179000 mi US $30	Replaced valve cover gasket as the car has been burning some oil and wanted to see if this helped eliminate that.

Mazda Protege5 in Colorado, United States Jul 2006 - Jun 2018
Mar 2009 119000 mi US $185	Left front wheel bearing had been going out for some time. Replaced. Excellent shop, labor charge about half dealer.. Able to buy Mazda OEM parts from dealer at "shop rate".
Dec 2010 150000 mi US $220	A coil pack was firing intermittently and was replaced. Drove too many miles with intermittent misfire, and took out cat. Replaced cat.
Nov 2017 213000 mi US $329	Catalytic converter.
Mar 2018 221000 mi US $70	Electronic driver's side door latch no longer operable. Latch replaced.
May 2018 223000 mi US $60	One of two coil packs went out. Bought two replacements and installed.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States Jul 2006 - Sep 2011
Feb 2009 128000 mi	Catastrophic cooling failure, awaiting funds for repair.
Jun 2010 130000 mi US $3600	Engine replacement. Timing belt broke, didn't change it when should have. Needs new engine. Was in shop for weeks. Don't know exact odometer reading.
Sep 2010 132000 mi US $985	Small crack in radiator, probably present or cause of catastrophic failure in 2009. After engine replaced, radiator wasn't. Overheated once under extreme stress. Driven for weeks afterward, with no probs. Replaced rad, water pump, t-stat.

Mazda Protege5 in Massachusetts, United States Sep 2006 - Mar 2010
Oct 2006 70000 mi US $250	The A/C fan switch was malfunctioning.

Mazda Protege5 in Florida, United States Apr 2015 - Mar 2017
May 2015 126500 mi US $200	Replaced fuel pump relay fuse.
Nov 2016 137300 mi US $20	Coolant overflow tank developed cracks and holes due to age.

Mazda Protege5 in Michigan, United States Jul 2005 - Jun 2014
Sep 2005 24001 mi	Rear ABS sensor replaced under warranty.
Dec 2006 38000 mi	Headlight out, replaced bulb.
Oct 2007 48000 mi	Finish flaking off wheels. New wheels ordered. Wrong wheels ordered, so not installed. Will have to go back. Finish flaking off wheels. New wheels ordered. Wrong wheels ordered, so not installed. Will have to go back.
Nov 2007 49000 mi	Wheels finally replaced. Extra trip required so Mazda could approve use of polished wheels like those that originally came on the car. I had these swapped for regular painted alloys at time of purchase. Wheels finally replaced. Extra trip required so Mazda could approve use of polished wheels like those that originally came on the car. I had these swapped for regular painted alloys at time of purchase.
Jun 2008 58000 mi US $80	One low-beam headlight went out, then a few days later the other one went out. Very difficult to access and remove the bulbs, which no parts shop seems to stock. So I had the dealer do it.
Dec 2008 66000 mi US $280	Front left wheel bearing replaced after started making a loud noise during even the slightest turns over 20 MPH. Front left wheel bearing replaced after started making a loud noise during even the slightest turns over 20 MPH.
Sep 2009 76000 mi US $440	Pads and rotors all four wheels.
Oct 2009 77000 mi US $5	Repaired rust around the rear wheel openings and along the lower inner seam of the driver's door. Repaired rust around the rear wheel openings and along the lower inner seam of the driver's door.
Mar 2010 83000 mi US $80	Both headlights replaced, second time they've both failed within days of each other. Both headlights replaced, second time they've both failed within days of each other.
Apr 2010 84000 mi US $398	Another wheel bearing. Intake air tube developed a crack, perhaps when I replaced the air filter. Weak part. Caused the engine to run lean, setting off the CEL. Shop suspected this was a common problem, since the part was readily available. Another wheel bearing. Intake air tube developed a crack, perhaps when I replaced the air filter. Caused the engine to run lean, setting off the CEL. Shop suspected this was a common problem, since the part was readily available.
Jun 2010 86000 mi US $410	Alternator bearing seized up, snapping the accessory belt. Replaced alternator and belts. Alternator bearing seized up, snapping the accessory belt. Replaced alternator and belts.
Nov 2010 92000 mi US $575	Repaired rust around rear wheel openings and on the lower inside surface of the driver's door.
Dec 2010 93000 mi US $335	Front left wheel bearing replaced again after two years and 26,000 miles.
Feb 2011 95000 mi US $580	Right rear stabilizer bar link broke. Replaced both links. Shop found worn control arm bushings. Replaced both front control arms. But clunk I've been noticing in the front end is still there.
Apr 2011 97700 mi US $258	Replaced another wheel bearing, about a year old. Also replaced end links on front stabilizer bar. Clunk gone, handling tighter.
Dec 2011 108000 mi US $93	Pulled over by police because one headlight was out. They were last replaced about 20 months ago, and then 20 months before that. Originals lasted five years. What gives? And why now $30 a bulb?
Apr 2012 111200 mi US $15	Right rear power door lock hasn't worked in months. With the weather warmer, removed door panel, opened up lock actuator, and found broken plastic gear and travel slide. Purchased this piece on eBay for $14.
Sep 2013 115000 mi	Removed rust from three fenders and welds under hood, treated areas with rust converter, touched-up. Had to remove a few inches of flange from the forward edge of the left rear wheel opening. Not a complete repair.
Jun 2014 1 mi US $400	Repaired deep rust on part of the underbody and inside rear wheel openings prior to sale. Right rear strut clunking, needed to be replaced when the car was sold.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States - Nov 2008
Nov 2008 83000 mi	Past repairs include cleaning EGR valve and IAC valve (rough idle)

Mazda Protege5 in Utah, United States Dec 2016 - Dec 2019
Feb 2018 197000 mi US $50	One headlight bulb was out, replaced both bulbs

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States Oct 2017 - Apr 2018
Dec 2017 142000 mi US $170000	estimate, repair not done yet

Mazda Protege5 in Washington, United States Jan 2016 - Dec 2019
Mar 2017 125000 mi US $1900	Clutch was slipping, grinding gears when shifting. New clutch kit, master slave cylinder, flywheel and rear main seal. New gear oil.
Jan 2018 130000 mi US $50	Replaced left outer tie-rod end cap.

Mazda Protege5 in North Carolina, United States Oct 2005 - Mar 2010
Aug 2005 32000 mi	Intake manifold screws fell out, new intake manifold
Sep 2005 35000 mi	Intake manifold screws again fall out, new engine
Jun 2009 128000 mi US $500	Replaced engine for second time. Burning oil again by November.

Mazda Protege5 in South Africa Sep 2015 - Sep 2021
Oct 2015 93500 mi	Car would cut off intermittently - Replaced Fuel Pump Relay myself.Agents too expensive,so I made my own.
Dec 2016 103540 mi R 900	Replaced ball joints and tie rod ends
Mar 2018 108500 mi R 550	The car would cut out under load. We first cleaned the petrol filter situated in the tank as it was clogged. A week later it did the same thing. We then drained the petrol tank as it was full of rubbish. No parts replaced
Aug 2018 109368 mi R 2150	Replaced clutch kit,slave cylinder and gearbox seal

Mazda Protege5 in Georgia, United States Dec 2006 - Sep 2011
Sep 2008 49000 mi US $144	Car had developed a bit of a tapping noise from the engine. Mechanic suggested this was fairly normal as the engine gets older. Also had an oil change, a headlight bulb replaced. New bushings installed for aftermarket swaybar.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States Jan 2007 - Jan 2024
May 2010 53000 mi	OBD DTC P0037 - heated oxygen sensor. Dealer diagnosed sensor failure and replaced it free. Covered under CA Emissions warranty.
Feb 2015 67300 mi	Oil leak; valve cover gasket.

Mazda Protege5 in Texas, United States Nov 2014 - Jun 2016
Jan 2014 90000 mi US $70	Check Engine Light led me to P0300 code ("random/multiple misfires") and coils were the first suspect per online forum. Replaced coils and spark plug wires. Driver's door lock actuator broke, so actuator made buzzing sound and would not lock/unlock. Bought part at parts store and replaced it myself.
Mar 2015 106000 mi US $90	Replaced front engine mount with Genuine Mazda part costing less than $100. Car was running acceptably with the bad mount but had wheel hop, especially when turning left.
Sep 2015 110000 mi US $250	Replaced passenger side engine mount with Genuine Mazda part costing around $200. Car was running acceptably with the bad mount, but wanted to fix it.
Feb 2016 113300 mi US $50	Valve cover gasket was leaking, so replaced it myself. Felpro gasket was $40 and included grommets; Permatex sealant was $7.
Apr 2016 115000 mi US $300	After 13 years and 115,000 miles on he originals, I bought a good set of struts (KYB) through the mail and installed them myself. The bump stops had disintegrated so I replaced them too. I reused the strut mounts and other parts.

Mazda Protege5 in Georgia, United States Jan 2007 - Jun 2013
Jan 2007 75000 mi US $40	RF wheel bearing howling loudly. Repladed DIY.
Jun 2007 65000 mi US $30	Both low beam halogen headlight bulbs burned out. Metal spring clip broke while changing bulb, replacement only available from dealer.
Dec 2007 79000 mi US $150	RF outer wheel bearing was making very loud noise. I removed carrier myself, but could not replace bearing as I do not own a press, so I took it to a shop where they replaced the bearing. I reinstalled carrier.
Feb 2010 112000 mi US $120	Previously replaced front wheel saddle bearing repair did not last- either I did not properly tighten the spindle bolt (not likely, but could have happened) or the part was defective. RR wheel has +3.0 degrees camber- WAY out of spec. Will need a kit to adjust. STAY AWAY FROM FAIRGROUNDS BODYSHOP, MARIETTA GA. THEY DO TERRIBLE WORK AND DO NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR REPAIRS.
Feb 2012 144000 mi US $50	RF wheel bearing was very noisy. Had replaced it twice already; the real problem was the hub/bearing carrier had worn and allowed the bearing to become cocked slightly- which in turn caused the bearing to fail prematurely. Replaced hub.
Dec 2012 169000 mi US $10	Replace low-beam head light. Seems to be a problem area with these cars; I've replaced the head lights three times, and have heard of other owners having similar problems.

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Jul 2014 - Aug 2014
Aug 2014 92380 mi	Parking brake would jam up when used

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Mazda Protege5 in Texas, United States Aug 2009 - Sep 2013
Jan 2009 157000 mi US $175	Vehicle overheating and A/C not cooling. Replace thermostat fixed the problems.
Sep 2012 192000 mi US $50	Corroded battery terminal
Jun 2013 201000 mi US $350	Horn switch replaced

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Oct 2011 - Jan 2012
Nov 2011 86800 mi	Front caliper seized and needed replacement Car was rusting under the paint over rear tire wells, body shop refused to fix the car as they were concerned the $ for repairs would exceed value of the car as well that there was additional rust under the plastic moldings.
Jan 2012 89900 mi C $250	Front passenger wheel bearing was replaced Passenger side running board trim was removed as the fasteners were rusted through and part would eventually fall off

Mazda Protege5 in British Columbia, Canada Dec 2012 - Dec 2017
Oct 2014 63240 mi C $300	check engine light came on. to the mechanic i go. read code: "front oxygen sensor" Replaced that sensor, reset code, nothing further to report.
Aug 2015 67040 mi	centre bearing on passenger side driveshaft drivers side wheel bearing replaced

Mazda Protege5 in Massachusetts, United States Sep 2011 - Oct 2011
Oct 2011 115000 mi US $320	Valve cover replaced. Sway bar links replaced.

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Mar 2010 - Nov 2013
Apr 2011 85760 mi C $750	Spark plugs, cables, battery, ignition system
Apr 2012 93620 mi C $1100	Too much play in tie rods. Had them replaced.
Nov 2013 101680 mi C $1100	Front stabilisers replaced replaced water pump front exhaust

Mazda Protege5 in New Hampshire, United States Jul 2013 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014 117000 mi	rot around rear wheelwell

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Aug 2010 - Nov 2010
Oct 2010 63240 mi C $500	New front brake calipers in Oct when safetied for re-sale (These cars had a lot of brake issues.)

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Jul 2009 - Oct 2009
Aug 2009 66340 mi	Overheating problem. Source was Cracked cylinder head. Engine swap.
Oct 2009 66340 mi	MAP sensor needed to be replaced when sold. Periodic check engine light.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States Dec 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010 140000 mi US $75	Thermostat went out while on freeway. Repaired onsite from personal mechanic.

Mazda Protege5 in Maryland, United States - Nov 2007
Nov 2005 33336 mi US $21	Headlight bulb: right.
May 2006 41224 mi	Donut gasket on exhaust downpipe. Warranty repair
Sep 2006 46332 mi US $26	Headlight bulb; right
Sep 2007 66029 mi US $26	Headlight bulb: left
Nov 2007 66950 mi US $24	Headlight bulb: right

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Sep 2009 - Jun 2011
Feb 2009 54560 mi C $200	front right wheel bearing
Oct 2009 62000 mi C $400	alternator went kaput
Feb 2010 63860 mi C $300	rear sliders seize all the time. need to lube them at least once a year. caused my rear right pads to wear like crazy alternator died. Support links on all 4 wheels replaced. all worn out badly. rear sway bar bushing worn out, replaced
Jul 2010 76460 mi C $200	another wheel bearing went kapoot.
Sep 2010 77500 mi C $700	fuel pump housing was cracked. fuel would leak out and stink up the cabin as well as mark up the driveway. i do not like this car's reliability.
Feb 2011 80680 mi C $280	another wheel bearing. third one in 3 years.
May 2011 82120 mi	rear caliper sticking. again.

Mazda Protege5 in Quebec, Canada Oct 2012 - Apr 2013
Nov 2012 106400 mi C $500	Full rear suspension and ball joint on rear wheel

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Oct 2012 - Nov 2012
Nov 2012 128960 mi	1. Forward links require repair 2. Significant rust in underneath in the rear, approaching perforation. 3. Engine light remains ON (mechanic cannot find problem). Turns back ON after reset.

Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Jul 2006 - Mar 2011
Feb 2008 41540 mi	EGR r&r Purge valve replaced. New design EGR installed, finally. Covered by 7 year factory warranty, discovered by accident by owner.
Nov 2009 57040 mi C $300	Suspension stabilizers at all 4 corners making pronounced knocking sound on anything but absolutely smooth road; badly, corroded and had to be cut out. Parts replaced were after market as Mazda parts double the cost! Solved the problem completely.
May 2010 62000 mi C $150	Temp gauge went sky high, thermostat replaced [2nd try].
Aug 2010 65100 mi C $135	A rear bushing "making noise even over slight bumps - annoying to me; my wife [the owner] was oblivious. Shop owner had to work to find it, but I knew it was there!
Nov 2010 67580 mi	Shop cannot repair annoying check engine light - no obvious symptoms.
Mar 2011 68200 mi	very glad to finally RID of this problem child - the whole thing started to go rapidly downhill at age 7, but only 110,000 Kms; needed coil packs... cat. convert, exhaust... rust on hatch and rear fenders.

Mazda Protege5 in Nevada, United States Oct 2012 - Dec 2014
Oct 2012 66700 mi US $80	Battery replaced
Dec 2012 70000 mi US $55	Received engine code error, misfire on two cylinders. Replaced two spark wires and plugs.Kept original coils.
Nov 2013 88925 mi US $526	Replaced one injector, head gasket due to piston misfire.
Apr 2014 95700 mi US $905	Solenoid inside transmission replaced.
Dec 2014 108000 mi US $240	Fuel injector replacement (one injector).

Mazda Protege5 in Florida, United States Jan 2009 - Jun 2018
Jan 2013 64200 mi US $200	Sticking left caliper. Taking a break right now from replacing both.
Sep 2013 64500 mi US $43	Threw a cel(Check Engine Light) code determined to be bad downstream O2 sensor at Advance auto parts.They will read the code for free.Bought part there and replaced it myself in about 35 minutes for a cost of 43$.Runs great! Threw a cel(Check Engine Light) code determined to be bad downstream O2 sensor at Advance auto parts.They will read the code for free.Bought part there and replaced it myself in about 35 minutes for a cost of 43$.Runs great!
Jan 2014 59700 mi US $125	Driver's side seatbelt receiver no longer functions as intended.(Won't hold clip,button sticks,or traps you by not releasing belt end.)Lame for a car with 65K miles on it,as the net says It's typical on this car.
Feb 2015 80400 mi US $150	Alternator replaced.
Dec 2015 90000 mi US $180	replaced radiator
Jul 2017 115800 mi	Fumbled repair. Shop installed on drivers side(front} bad bearing was on passenger side(front) This repair took 3 days to do the one bearing then it failed at about 7000 miles. I picked the car up and dropped it off at another shop to get the correct wheel bearing replaced and had it back in 2.5 hours.
Sep 2017 125000 mi US $50	The original wheel bearing repair by idiots failed in 7000 miles. I had the good shop replace that one too. No problems since and very quiet. HVAC fan replacement, Old one got noisy. Blissfully quiet now. Won't miss the wheel of fortune sound of the old one.

Mazda Protege5 in Virginia, United States Jul 2006 - Mar 2010
Dec 2006 34000 mi	Both coil packs were failing, causing rough idle and severe hesitation. Dealer also replaced all four sparkplugs and both ignition wires as a precaution. Failing coil packs are a known problem that affects a small but measurable number of Proteges/Protege
May 2007 39000 mi	Rattling from engine bay before engine warmed up. The heat shield had come loose. Dealer reattached under owarranty. Car died while idling at a stoplight. CEL stayed on and then turned off when car restarted. Dealer unable to diagnose and no code recorded. No charge.

Mazda Protege5 in California, United States Mar 2009 - Mar 2012
Feb 2012 64000 mi US $170	Thermostat stuck in closed position, leading to engine overheating. $20 for diagnosis at random corner garage, then towed to usual mechanic, who charged $20 for replacement part and $120 in labor to screw it in, tax.

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Mazda Protege5 in Ontario, Canada Feb 2008 - Jun 2011
Feb 2008 44795 mi C $65	Change headlight that was blown out. Had both changed at the same time to keep track of the life of the bulbs, since this vehicle was bought used.
Mar 2008 45880 mi	2 rear abs sensors. mazda dealership reported that they both needed to be replaced. Dealership where vehicle was purchased 5 weeks prior was able to fix the problem with no new parts (cleaned and replaced parts). Mazda dealership wanted $636 plus 13% s
Oct 2008 50840 mi C $430	EGR valve kit needed to be replaced.
Jul 2009 59520 mi C $1600	Required new battery and alternator. Car would not start. Taken to Garage x2 to have problems figured out. Required tow x2. Also had routine maintenace done: Alternator belt, serpentine belt, tire rotation.
May 2010 68820 mi C $1350	Both front wheel bearings and stabilizer bars replaced. Rear right ABS sensor replaced.
Jun 2010 69440 mi C $222	Front intermediate pipe from exhaust manifold was corroded and fell off. New pipe installled.

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Mazda Protege5 in South Africa Mar 2017 - Aug 2021
Feb 2018 107880 mi	Car would jerk when under power. Cleaned Fuel Filter and Fuel Tank

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Mazda Protege in Pennsylvania, United States Dec 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013 120000 mi	2nd wheel bearing in one year.

Mazda Protege5 in Quebec, Canada May 2008 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010 94240 mi C $500	cardan bose (universal joint)

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Mazda Protege in Massachusetts, United States Nov 2013 - Sep 2014
Dec 2013 166000 mi US $100	Accessory belt for power steering snapped for the second time in a month.

Mazda Protege in California, United States - Nov 2007
Nov 2007 65000 mi US $2000	Transmission LSD failed, replaced with aftermarket transmission and LSD to prevent this issue again in the future. Could have been repaired for 500 dollars.

Mazda Protege in Tennessee, United States Sep 2014 - Oct 2014
Sep 2014 185000 mi US $500	Failed OEM turbo

Mazda Protege in Wisconsin, United States Oct 2008 - May 2011
Jul 2008 72000 mi US $1800	differential repair
Mar 2011 108000 mi US $250	Right side control arm. Right side wheel bearing.

Mazda Protege in New Jersey, United States Feb 2009 - Mar 2011
Sep 2010 69000 mi	Coil pack #2 failed and was replaced with new duralast one by me(owner). Car runs perfect now. Valve cover gasket needed to be replaced, I(owner) did the labor.

Mazda Protege in Arizona, United States May 2008 - Feb 2023
Nov 2008 23000 mi	Clunking noise when driven over small bumps or uneven roads was noticed coming from rear of the car. During routine oil change, mechanic checked and discovered rear suspension buhings were worn. Dealer shop installed bushings that were ordered.
May 2009 26000 mi	Drivers side door lock actuator broken and was making a grinding noise whenever locks were used. New lock actuator part installed. Problem resolved.
May 2010 32000 mi US $50	R/Front passenger door actuator went out and would make grinding noises. Dealer ordered & replaced with new part.
Mar 2014 47000 mi US $153	R/rear door lock actuator was shot. Grinding noise whenever the electronic door locks opened or closed.
Jan 2018 52000 mi US $23	Battery was seven years old; noted car would not start after sitting for > a week; starter & alternator passed diagnostic testing performed but load test of battery failed. R/R of battery with new unit. Adhesive for factory rear bumper skirt molding had failed and was sagging. Removed rear skirt and cleaned all molding adhesive off from rear skirt & bumper. Body shop technicians replaced all adhesive and mounted rear bumper skirt within factory specification.
Jan 2021 56000 mi	Battery was dead and trickle charger was not restoring battery to full charge. Battery was in final month of 36 month warranty and replacement issued for free by store.

Mazda Protege in Alabama, United States Sep 2006 - Mar 2010
Sep 2007 30187 mi	replaced end links, bushings, and rear sway bar due to design flaw. replace rear sway bar, end links, and bushings
Jul 2009 54000 mi US $250	replaced bushing and brackets for rear sway bar replaced bushing and brackets for rear sway bar
Jan 2010 63000 mi US $612	replaced leaking rear struts

Mazda Protege in California, United States Mar 2009 - Jun 2011
May 2009 50500 mi US $350	Check engine light indicating intake manifold runner stuck. Replaced intake runners. That didn't fix.
Aug 2009 52100 mi US $350	Check engine light indicating intake manifold runner stuck. Replaced intake runners again. The Check Engine light with same code still comes on sporadically and then goes off after a time (anywhere from a day to several months).
Mar 2010 57000 mi	One of my struts was clanking and needed its top nut to be tightened.

Mazda Protege in Virginia, United States May 2007 - Jul 2022
Jul 2010 49800 mi US $75	Cat pipe broke between the two cats.
Jan 2016 51800 mi US $1000	LSD Welds broke. Replaced LSD.
Dec 2016 84000 mi US $75	Front O2 sensor replacement
May 2018 92000 mi US $100	Muffler replaced.

Mazda Protege in California, United States Jan 2009 - Oct 2013
Mar 2009 101000 mi US $200	Misfire on one cylinder due to bad ignition coil pack.
Dec 2009 106000 mi	Belt(s) would squeal on startup and when cold; probably not tightened enough during timing belt service.
Dec 2010 115000 mi US $6	Oil leakage, due to bad o-ring on oil filler cap. Replaced cap with an aftermarket part.
Mar 2011 117000 mi US $5	I was looking under the hood for another problem and noticed that a boot on the vacuum line feeding the turbo wastegate, BOV/recirc valve, etc. had split. Replaced with various vacuum hoses & fittings from stock on-hand.
May 2011 117900 mi	Scantool showed code P0660. This code will not turn on the check engine light--it has to be found with a scantool. Code for VICS (variable intake) electrical problem. Tested vac. solenoid. High resistance, wouldn't pass vacuum correctly.
Jun 2011 119000 mi US $130	Installed new VICS (variable intake) solenoid valve. Old solenoid valve had high resistance and wouldn't switch vacuum ports when power was applied. A test drive confirmed significantly better high RPM power with the VICS working again.
Oct 2011 120200 mi US $61	Doors stopped locking and alarm stopped arming when key was turned in driver's door lock cyl. Checked resistance of keyswitch, and it didn’t meet specs in the “lock” direction. Cleaned w/elec. contact cleaner; didn't help. Replaced switch.
Apr 2012 123200 mi US $89	Engine was very sloppy feeling, like its mounts were worn. Replaced very worn front engine mount, which was surprisingly easy to do. Rear mount should also be replaced, but will be a very big job, so I will defer it for now.
Jun 2013 129000 mi US $65	Occasional slight misfire during warm-up, then later, a more severe misfire at startup. Check engine light came on. Code P0304. Followed Mazda troubleshooting procedure. Replaced both coil packs. Code came back again later.
Aug 2013 131000 mi US $44	Misfiring, severe during cold warmup and slight when warm. Learned that the plug gap for the turbo is less, and they are frequently mis-gapped. Checked gap, too large. Plugs almost due to be changed. Installed new plugs, regapped to proper. Driver's seat belt buckle stopped latching. The belt tongue wouldn't stay in the buckle when it was inserted. There was no obvious debris in the buckle. Tried oiling the buckle, unsuccessful. Replaced buckle with new OEM part. Car started overheating in stop and go traffic with the A/C on. Turning on the heater cooled it down, and the temp was normal once the traffic started moving. LH cooling fan was getting power but didn't turn. Replaced fan motor. Once the LH fan was replaced, it ran continuously. Tapping the fan relay stopped the fan. Later drives showed that the fan rarely came on when the car was hot. The relay was sticking in both the open and closed positions. Replaced the relay.

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Mazda Protege in Kansas, United States Dec 2008 - Aug 2009
Jun 2009 94000 mi US $180	Reset check engine light due to fuel cap (apparently) not being on tightly enough. Replaced spark plugs at same time (75k on these)

Mazda Protege in Missouri, United States Dec 2006 - Mar 2016
Mar 2013 139000 mi US $30	Valve cover gasket replacement.

Mazda Protege in Wisconsin, United States Dec 2016 - Oct 2017
Feb 2017 141000 mi US $150	Replaced motor mount and hose between air filter and intake(broke due to motor mount).
Aug 2017 151000 mi US $300	Replaced rear struts and mount. Price reflects friend doing work.

Mazda Protege in Massachusetts, United States - Apr 2008
Apr 2008 53000 mi US $1300	humming noise; fixed by replacing front wheel bearings; it has failed again twice and repaired covered by warranty

Mazda Protege in Washington, United States Jun 2007 - Oct 2010
Aug 2007 40000 mi	Dash rattle.

Mazda Protege in New Mexico, United States Feb 2007 - Nov 2011
Sep 2007 30000 mi US $120	Door lock actuator had internal break

Mazda Protege in West Virginia, United States May 2007 - Jan 2011
Apr 2007 25000 mi	Intake manifold screws released into combustion chamber resulting in dead spark plugs. Known issue related to a rolling recall. Repaired under warranty by Mazda.
Dec 2008 43000 mi US $70	Worn pads discovered during state inspection, replaced with new OEM pads.
Sep 2009 49000 mi US $50	Rust forming under driver door seam. Removed rubberized rail, removed drain plugs (other doors didn't have them??), removed loose paint and rust, sealed with POR-15 Rust forming under driver door seam. Removed rubberized rail, removed drain plugs (other doors didn't have them??), removed loose paint and rust, sealed with POR-15
Aug 2010 54000 mi US $250	Repaired rust on lower front fenders, at rocker panels. Repaired rust on front, upper strut tower mounts. Repaired rust on lower seam of driver door (second repair; seam collects moisture, not sure about longer-term fix) Inside, rear, passenger-side door handle broke in half. Repaired rust on lower front fenders, at rocker panels. Repaired rust on front, upper strut tower mounts. Repaired rust on lower seam of driver door (second repair; seam collects moisture, not sure about longer-term fix) Inside, rear, passenger-side door handle broke in half.

Mazda Protege in Colorado, United States Jun 2007 - Nov 2011
Jan 2007 50000 mi US $120	VICS screw loosened and went through engine, damaging spark plug. Engine misfiring. Replaced spark plugs. Not notified of recall.
Mar 2009 75000 mi US $600	Replace CV joints/axle shafts, replace front brake pads
Jun 2010 90000 mi US $30	Recharge A/C system Tighten recently replaced accessory belts
Dec 2010 95000 mi US $150	repair vacuum leak repair vacuum leak

Mazda Protege in Prince Edward Island, Canada Sep 2009 - Feb 2011
Jul 2010 77500 mi	Front wheel bearing.

Mazda Protege in Alberta, Canada Jul 2009 - Feb 2012
Feb 2012 93000 mi	Rusting on bottom of doors and rear fenders.

Mazda Protege in Quebec, Canada Mar 2011 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012 62000 mi C $700	Transmission oil leak, needed to lift slightly to replace gasket

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Mazda Protege in Alberta, Canada Apr 2014 - Mar 2016
May 2014 87580 mi C $170	Both front sway bar links were replaced due to wear.
Aug 2014 92380 mi C $10	Engine light came on; replaced gas cap.
Sep 2014 94860 mi C $140	Code P2009 and P0301. Spark plug in Cyl. 1 replaced. Good for a week, then code P0302. Noticed electrodes on spark plug #2 touching. Replaced spark plug in Cyl. 2. myself. Drove a few more days, then code P2009. Suspect a problem with VTCS.
Nov 2014 96260 mi	Discovered recall 3005C had not been done. This was the cause of the previous problem. Mazda dealership did the needed repairs.

Mazda Protege in Florida, United States Feb 2014 - Aug 2015
Jul 2015 66000 mi US $90	replaced plugs, wires & coils
Aug 2015 66000 mi	radiator failed, traded car for 2015 Nissan Versa 5spd

Mazda Protege in Massachusetts, United States Jan 2005 - Jan 2014
Jan 2005 9500 mi US $75	Dead Battery, Battery replaced under warranty
May 2005 14290 mi US $38	Battery Dead, Battery replaced
Jul 2005 14739 mi	Battery dead. Replaced Alarm module, under warranty
Aug 2005 14802 mi	Battery dead. Replaced audio unit. Under warranty Battery dead. Towed in at dealers expense. Loose solenoid Wire repaired.
Jan 2007 20866 mi	Battery dead. Battery replaced under warranty. Charges not shown on invoice.
May 2007 21947 mi	Check engine light on. Internal Fault. Egr Valve replaced. No charge under warranty
Feb 2011 37000 mi US $47	Heat shield on underside had rusted and loosened. Auto shop removed same, but did not replace.
Jan 2012 38400 mi US $217	Loss of Power Steering. Power Steering replaced. Repair facility experienced delay in deliver of replacelment part by Mazda distributer
Jul 2013 41000 mi US $434	Engine Light ON. E G R Valve failed, and replaced. At same time had a seasonal check up including oil and filter change.

Mazda Protege in New Jersey, United States Oct 2011 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012 185000 mi US $200	Battery needed to be replaced

Mazda Protege in Indiana, United States May 2009 - Mar 2010
Dec 2009 124000 mi US $550	Wheel bearing went out, taking wheel hub with it. Protege ES has rare hub, making repair expensive and difficult to source.

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Mazda Protege in Newfoundland / Lab., Canada Mar 2010 - Mar 2012
Feb 2011 75020 mi C $175	Replaced muffler.
May 2011 76260 mi C $80	Car almost stalls at red lights/stops. Problem does not exist while driving. Mechanic suggested starting with cheap possible fixes. He replaced spark plugs - this did not fix the issue.
Jun 2011 78740 mi C $90	Same problem as before - the mechanic rechecked everything and this time found a small hole in some kind of air intake hose. Once he replaced that, everything was OK. Ball joint was replaced. Windshield washer pump had to be replaced.

Mazda Protege in Ohio, United States - Dec 2004
Dec 2004 32569 mi US $9000	the only thing that had to be repaired was the wheel bearings at like 50k. it now has 90 thousand miles and is going strong

Mazda Protege in Ohio, United States Sep 2017 - Dec 2021
Oct 2017 111000 mi US $71	Replaced both RH interior door handles (broken). Replaced both RH door lock actuators (inoperable).
Feb 2018 113597 mi US $81	Bad driver's side ignition coil. Plugs & wires replaced as well.
Mar 2018 114409 mi US $96	Replaced broken driver's door window regulator and broken LR inside door handle
Jul 2019 132489 mi US $250	New LF wheel bearing
Dec 2019 140000 mi US $175	New LF wheel bearing
Jun 2020 151496 mi	Replacement driver's side ignition coil under warranty.
Aug 2020 143976 mi US $20	New intake hose
Oct 2020 146136 mi US $395	New LF Wheel bearing and hub
Nov 2020 146000 mi US $129	Failed drive belts from rubbing on engine cover led to failed radiator
Dec 2021 154000 mi US $30	New blower motor resistor

Mazda Protege in Ohio, United States Feb 2011 - Jun 2011
Apr 2011 99000 mi US $1600	Both brake caliper assembly's were frozen - no front brakes. Front left and right wheel bearings req'd replacement - were severely worn out. Rear suspension knocking noise -- found that entire rear suspension needed replaced (strut mounts, struts, etc, etc,) estimated cost $3000 + labor. Declined repair and sold car.

Mazda Protege in Quebec, Canada Apr 2016 - Apr 2018
Dec 2016 103540 mi C $80	During a cold snap (around -20) the alternator was not charging enough to keep the battery charged and the battery needed to be charged. Tests of the battery and charging system indicated no problems. Mechanic said too much power drawn idling in traffic.
Jun 2017 104780 mi C $180	Replaced left lower control arm and Ball joint
Sep 2017 106020 mi C $380	Replaced ignition coil for #2-3 cylinders
Nov 2017 106640 mi C $480	Alternator was replaced

Mazda Protege in Quebec, Canada Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010 52080 mi C $650	change the shocks and the link kits Change the Shocks and the 4 link kits

Mazda Protege in Louisiana, United States Dec 2006 - Aug 2010
Dec 2009 60000 mi US $49	Belt squealing. Idler pully had backed off losing tension. Belt had been replaced two months earlier on 60000 mile maintenance. So no charge. Vehicle was in for normal service so that accounts for the charges.

Mazda Protege in Nova Scotia, Canada Apr 2009 - Mar 2010
May 2009 63240 mi C $52	front sway bar-drivers side replaced

Mazda Protege in Quebec, Canada Nov 2008 - Sep 2011
Jun 2009 48360 mi C $875	Water pump started leaking coolant, had to have it replaced. Replaced the timing belt as well since it would be due soon (96000 KM), and dealer gave a package deal.
Oct 2009 52080 mi	When at full stop (idle), car's RPM would fluctuate briskly. Took it to dealership, they replaced what is called the Idle Control Valve, which is a documented weakness of this car. No cost since there is a 7 year secret warranty on this component.
Dec 2009 53940 mi C $350	Had to replace faulty alternator after the battery light came on.
Mar 2010 56420 mi C $102	Alternator replaced for second time in 4 months. Dealer thinks it is an isolated problem, only paid for labour plus applicable taxes.
Dec 2010 63860 mi C $300	ABS sensor malfunctioned in one of the rear wheels, causing the ABS light to turn on intermittently while driving. Part and labour was cheap, however, the diagnostic alone cost $100.
Jun 2011 68820 mi C $300	Noticed pronounced squealing sound from one of the back wheels while driving the car. Turns out one of the back brake calipers was malfunctioning, causing premature wear of brake pads. Replaced Caliper.

Mazda Protege in Ontario, Canada Jul 2009 - Jun 2018
Jun 2011 92380 mi C $958	Two of the ignition coils burnt out and had to be replaced, along with spark plugs. Regular 140k maintenance was also performed.
Nov 2012 109820 mi C $350	Rear sway bar links replaced. Coolant fluids flush done.
Nov 2013 132060 mi C $1500	Gas tank had a leak, engine belt replaced. Front axle bar needed welding.
Apr 2016 148900 mi C $1500	Rust treatment and new coat of paint.

Mazda Protege in Quebec, Canada Sep 2008 - Jan 2010
Jul 2009 50840 mi C $700	EGR valve stuck intake gasket

Mazda Protege in Utah, United States Aug 2008 - Jul 2018
Oct 2011 125500 mi US $130	Drivers side window motor went out and had to be replaced.
May 2017 170000 mi US $787	Wheel bearings replaced

Mazda Protege in Ohio, United States Jun 2014 - Sep 2015
Aug 2014 127500 mi US $338	Worn lateral links & bolt, LR. 2 new lateral links, new bolt, alignment.
Apr 2015 133300 mi US $15	Headlight
Sep 2015 135000 mi US $153	Rusted pipe under engine. Replacement pipe, bolts/springs plus helicoil to repair threads in catalytic converter

Mazda Protege in Pennsylvania, United States Oct 2011 - Oct 2012
Apr 2012 224000 mi US $220	leaking gas tank. replace tank and fuel pump

Mazda Protege in British Columbia, Canada Feb 2011 - Apr 2017
Jun 2011 83080 mi C $400	Bearing repaired. Not a wheel bearing but the bearing that is where the powertrain hits the transmission.
Aug 2011 85560 mi C $60	Car had oil leak. Added stop leak to the oil. Also a different humming from front suspension. Told the problem needs to get worse before servicing as they could not isolate the problem.
Sep 2011 88040 mi C $400	Front wheel bearing. Had already been changed, but housing out of spec. Replaced bearing (warrantied) and housing.
Nov 2011 89240 mi C $300	Other bearing
Apr 2012 93000 mi C $400	Replace Alternator, both belts were replaced and Oil Lead was treated
Aug 2012 97280 mi C $2	Replaced Water Pump, changed timing belt and replaced oil gasket on engine
Oct 2013 111160 mi	Battery light comes on and off but the alternator checks out fine
Mar 2014 117180 mi C $300	Carburetor hose broken
Oct 2014 122640 mi C $700	Making funny noise from front when turning
Dec 2014 125240 mi C $300	Alternator stopped working
Jun 2016 136400 mi C $300	radiator thermostat
Oct 2016 140000 mi C $500	Replace radiator

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Mazda Protege5 in Massachusetts, United States Feb 2007 - Mar 2010
Mar 2007 69000 mi	Driving to work, car went into first gear and wouldn't shift. Had it towed to used car dealer; they installed (used/junkyard) tranny. Paid by them because it was under warranty that was offered when purchased car.

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Mazda Protege5 in Connecticut, United States Jul 2006 - Mar 2010
Jun 2008 101000 mi US $200	seized rear caliper (common for high mileage proteges in cold climates) - $200. Also new pads, new rotor, and brake fluid flush needed to complete the job. Cost of those not included as I already had them waiting and don't remember the cost.
Sep 2008 109000 mi US $475	After hitting a very harsh bump on the highway, the fuel pump and fuel pump housing was cracked, causing a fuel leak (36mpg became 16mpg). I drove across the country with the leak but the gas fumes were pretty bad. Replaced the whole fuel tank/pump.

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Mazda Protege5 in New York, United States Feb 2006 - Apr 2011
Oct 2006 52500 mi US $225	Had loose front tie rod ends replaced because of noise.
Mar 2007 55000 mi US $385	Replaced the EGR valve for the third time, first out of warranty. also diagnosed creaking noise in rear as worn/loose sway bar end links. Need to be replaced at next visit.
Apr 2007 57000 mi US $85	Buzzing/creaking noise noticed in the front when turning steering wheel. Worn end links on front sway bar diagnosed. Also power steering pump may be at end of life. Not fixed this trip because of cost and not an immediate safety issue.
Feb 2008 65000 mi US $300	Replaced broken rear sway bar end links. Also flushed power steering fluid system due to unknown contaminant. Regularly required brake service and lube also performed.
Jun 2008 67000 mi	Mechanic noticed that front end links are worn/loose and causing front end clunk/creak. Will repair in the future, not a safety issue.
May 2009 75000 mi US $475	Had scraping noise in rear of car after new pads and rotors installed in February. Mechanic discovered that the rear calipers were faulty and had to be replaced. Also had to replace the 3 month old rotors and pads because of premature deterioration.
Jun 2009 75000 mi US $225	had to replace front pipe, completely rotted, needed new part, not just a welded repair
Mar 2010 80000 mi US $1400	Front struts replaced - they were badly leaking and had lost most of their rebound capabilities. Was cause severe tire wear. Had car in for tire wear and 2 alignments over past year, but they didn't figure it out til now. Shop performed rear brake maintenance. The rear brake pad/caliper slides had frozen again. Probably top problem with this car. Significant thru the panel rust on both rear wheel arches, causing the rear bumper to lose its connection points to the body. The connector has rusted away, leaving bumper to rattle in the wind. Also other rust ie bottom of all doors
Jun 2010 82000 mi US $500	egr valve problem is back,car stalling and running rough. Cel was egr flow insuficient. Cleared that then threw multiple cylinder misfire.
Mar 2011 89000 mi US $350	Front outer tie rods replaced, were significantly loose. Also complained of loud whining/gear noise, was diagnosed as bad driver front wheel bearing. I think it is the gear box whining. also had rust check, alignment.
Apr 2011 89000 mi	Sold with substantial rust.

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Mazda Protege5 in Massachusetts, United States May 2007 - Mar 2010

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Mazda Protege in Pennsylvania, United States Aug 2007 - Oct 2015
Oct 2011 105000 mi US $120	Left front sway bar link broke. Needed it replaced to pass PA state inspection (even though a sway bar is not technically a 'critical' component; a car can function without one). It was broken a while; figured I'd replace for inspection.
Jul 2013 133700 mi US $10	Positive battery terminal corroded the electrical connection (not uncommon on an 11+ yo car). I cut the terminal connector off and replaced it with a new generic terminal from an auto parts store. 'Mechanic questions' below unnecessary.
Dec 2013 141000 mi US $80	Front motor mount failed (common on these cars with age). Replaced easily.
Oct 2015 149000 mi	Left rear wheel bearing starting to go. Probably age related.

Mazda Protege in Saskatchewan, Canada Jun 2009 - May 2016
Nov 2011 106200 mi C $121	check engine light came on, and noticed some knocking. took car to dealer, who found a split intake tube. Tube was replaced, problems resolved.
Apr 2012 110360 mi C $125	Rear struts completely shot, replaced. Nearly every bolt was seized, making the repair difficult. Save the hassle and take it to a shop.
Jun 2013 112220 mi C $1100	Vehicle suddenly lost power. Towed to dealership. From the invoice: REPLACED T. BELT, WATERPUMP, W/P GASKET, COOLENT, T. BELT TENSIONER AND SPRING, ALT.BELT, V/C GASKET
Apr 2014 116560 mi C $120	had the oil pressure sensor replaced
Apr 2015 120280 mi C $700	brake pad fell off. rotor damaged. new rotor, rear pads, and a new caliper (leaking).
May 2016 126480 mi	Extensive rust around wheel well.

Mazda Protege in Massachusetts, United States Aug 2011 - Dec 2013
Oct 2011 122500 mi US $100	Best guess, threw power steering belt which caused serpentine belt to go, causing overheating and cracked radiator. Car towed back to used car dealer where car was purchased and problems fixed under 1250 mile warranty.
Jul 2012 131800 mi US $500	The EGR Value needed to be replaced after getting stuck open and stalling the car whenever at a stop.
Dec 2013 150000 mi US $500	Struts replaced due to wear.

Mazda Protege in Ohio, United States Jun 2009 - Mar 2010
Jul 2009 143000 mi US $1300	Shocks worn -- replaced.

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Mazda Protege in California, United States Sep 2009 - Dec 2018
Oct 2011 82000 mi US $26	Cracked air intake hose was causing hesitation and light pinging. Surprisingly, idle was fine and no CEL. Replacement was easy and straightforward.
May 2013 93000 mi US $1050	Brought in for knocking noise that varied with rpm - turned out to be timing belt flopping around. Root cause was not fixing leaky valve cover gasket in a timely manner. Replaced timing belt/other belts, water pump, cam/oil seals, etc.
Nov 2016 119000 mi US $575	Rattling noise over bumps and increased body lean that steadily got worse over a year - turned out to be bad strut and strut mount. Ended up getting 2 new rear struts and mounts
Feb 2018 131500 mi US $147	Noticed temp gauge started going up so went to shop a few blocks away before car overheated. It was the thermostat like I thought - easy and quick repair.

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2003 Mazda Protege repairs by problem area

2003 Mazda Protege repair cost distribution

2003 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2003 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2003 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2003 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2003 Mazda Protege

2003 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2003 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2003 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2003 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2003 Mazda Protege 4-door

2002.5 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2002.5 Mazda Protege5 4dr Wagon

2002.5 Mazda Protege

2002.5 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2002.5 Mazda Protege 4dr Sedan

2003 Mazda Protege Repair Histories