1998 Protege LX problem
 

Hi, I'm new here and was wondering if anyone else has had this problem. I recently had 4 new tires and front brakes put on my 1998 Protege. After that the car didn't seem to drive like it used to. It's like it's shifting slower from a stop and this happens after I've driven the car for about 20 minutes (after it's warmed up). Granted, it's been windy here for the last few weeks, but even when it's not windy, I feel like I'm driving into the wind and ready to take off and fly. I don't remember having this problem before. I did take it to get a tune up after this thinking that might be the problem...also found a cracked vaccuum hose and got that repaired. My transmission fluid is fine..but still it's not driving theway it did before the new tires/brakes. Any suggestions from the forum? Thanks so much!

RE: 1998 Protege LX problem
 

Check make sure you don't have a stuck brake caliper.

RE: 1998 Protege LX problem
 

When you had the new brakes installed did you just install the pads? or pads and rotors? if it's all new, just the size difference in the new ones could cause some friction, or if it's old routers and they're warped that could possibly be it as well. chances are "MazdaES" already pinpointed it, and it's a stuck caliper. though make sure where the pad slides, isn't all full of rust and road grime. one last thought, if by chance the garage that did the work cranked on your E Brake when doing the work, and it seized on, and didn't let go, that would slow the car's acceleration.

RE: 1998 Protege LX problem
 

Yea it sounds like the brakes might be dragin a little, check the caliper and even the wheel if you see more than usual brake dust on the tires.