Hi guys,

I’m going to inherit a 2002 Mazda Protégé next week. It is an auto and I believe it is the 2.0 and has around 150,000 mi. It was a well maintained car. Are there some common issues/ problems that I should watch out for? I read the sticky for 95-98, but I’m not sure that it applies to the 2002.

Thanks!

 

Its getting old, be aware old cars wear out.
Continue regular maintenance.
If something doesn't feel right or sound right, get it checked out ASAP, the longer you leave it the more its likely to cost to repair.

 

Thanks, Grim.

I have three other vehicles at least as old as this one (1979, 1993, 2002), from 150-250k miles, so I’m familiar with maintaining old cars, but I appreciate the general advice.

Does anyone know of any model-specific issues to watch out for (i.e. engine, transmission, suspension, etc. issues?) My experience has been that most models have some specific common problems as they age.

 

From observation on this forum and from casual observation on the road I risk to say this:
If the vehicle was used on salted roads expect rust. It starts on the rear wheel arches and rocker panels.
Expect rubber parts to fail. Go the the "unofficial user's guide to the 95-98 protege" to get a feel. Your 02 has a slightly larger engine and wider tires. I believe you have CoP or CnP ignition.(coil on plug or coil near plug). Check on Carsurvey.org for reviews.
It is possible that this engine has no EGR system. That would be a big +.

 

Thanks, Tan.

I greatly appreciate it.