Hi all

I'm looking to buy a used 1997 Protege with the 1.5L engine w/auto trans. It does start and run very well. It has 197,000km (123,200 miles) on it.

My question is, how has the 1.5L engine been as far as reliability when they hit this mileage? Any other concerns that you think might be of interest to me regarding these Protege's with this engine and transmission combo, would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

 

It all depends on how well the car has been taken care off. I think you have it looked over by a mechanic even if it costs you a few $$. Anything could let go at this mileage.
But then it may last to 275000 miles. A mechanic should be able to tell you if the timing belt has been replaced and if the transmission shifts as it should.
Good luck, but keep your expectations low to protect your inner peace!

 

OK Thanks.

Now, lets assume the timing belt and water pump have been replaced recently. How has the 1.5L engine been for reliability? If the oil has been changed reasonably on time and the engine hasn't had the crap driven out of it - were these a good engine or were they prone to failure regardless of proper care?

 

Look through the reports and comments on this website: carsurvey.org.
I have the impression the cars are not disposed of because of engine trouble, but an accumulation of other issues. Read that website and make your own judgment call.

 

I recently bought a 97 protege 1.5L auto. I paid $1200 for it and its got 122K kms on it. Yes I know, very low miles but the price was mind boggling to pass up. I went to check it out, apparently the used car dealership got it as a trade and didnt have much history on it. Car looked solid physically and mechanically. Had a mechanic look it over before i bought it and he looks at me and says, the heck you waiting for lol. It does need a few minor things to pass safety, maybe around $200 worth of parts with labor and already has e-test done to it. I did some research before buying on the major problems and came across this link 1997 Mazda Protege Reliability - MSN Autos Somewhat gives you an idea of the major problems. I had a question, Im gonna get a tune up done on it, other than the usual, spark plugs, distributor cap, all the belts, what else should I change? I was thinking of doing the vavle cover gasket, but then I read that if youre doing that, might as well do the water and fuel pump since its right there? What do you guys think?

 

97:
You listed the things I would do to get it tuned up. Gaskets I only replace when they leak. If it's not broken, don't fix it.

There is one more thing I would suggest because it is cheap, easy and it could make a difference: give this engine a treatment with "Seafoam". Follow the instructions on the can, but do this in an industrial area and not in your cozy neighborhood. You will create a lot of stinky white smoke for 2 minutes or so. It thoroughly removes carbon built up and improves throttle response and fuel mileage. If it doesn't it only cost yo a few bucks.

tan

 

And as usually I for get something: the timing belt. Let your mechanic look at it and tell you what he thinks. Sometimes it is possible to determine that it has been replaced.
Other times there are obvious signs of wear.
If the timing belt needs to be replaced you can think about that water pump.
Get a Haynes or Chilton manual or check it out at the library.

I think you did very well buying that car.

 

I just posted in my thread about the tuneup, but lets say if timing belt needs change, i should do the water pump to be on the safe side?