Used 1996 Mazda Protege Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Great little car!
BMH, 02/07/2017
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I got my 1996 Protege DX with an automatic transmission in 2006 and it's been a great car. I just turned 112,000 miles on it and have only replaced the waterpump and timing belt and have had regular fluid changes. No leaks or smoke. Starts up every time. I just replaced the stock Mazda battery two years ago! The gas mileage is about 32-34 highway and it's roomy inside. The engine could use a few more horses with the automatic but I'm used to it after all this time and it doesn't really bother me too much. I do wish I could find an actual replacement molded carpet though. All that is available is padding and rolls of carpeting that I would have to cut to fit and doesn't have the driver's side floor pad. Someone changed the stock 13" rims to nice aluminum 14" and the ride is nice compared to others with stock wheels that I have driven. I also wish it had cruise control and whomever came up with the cup holder design at Mazda probably doesn't have a job there anymore. It has developed a few interior rattles and squeaks, mostly from the door panels and the glove box door, but they are to be expected for a car that is this old and has mostly plastic interior. My biggest issue with the car though is the seals. It builds up condensation inside and takes forever to clear. Sometimes it runs down the inside of the windshield and yes I have had it checked for leaks. I have read where this is a common problem with this car in damp areas. I have learned to live with it and have kept an eye out for rust but none yet.
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- Reliability
Nice car, very few problems
Jayman770, 07/15/2002
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my protege in October of 1999. The only thing that i have fixed on it was a blower motor about 2 years ago. Other then basic oil changes nothing else has been fixed on it. I would highly recommend the protege for those people wanting an economy car but not willing to pay the price of other highly rated Toyota and Honda economy cars.
20 years and still running like a champ
Abe25, 10/13/2015
1996 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I just bought one. It was the best investment I have ever made. I paid $400 for it on Craigslist because it needed repairs. The parts were cheap. I ended up spending just $300 to replace the rear struts and springs, all four brake pads and rotors, headlights, spark plugs, air filter and replaced all of the fluids. Now it runs like new which is surprising since the engine and transmission have never been replaced or rebuilt. Some of the reviews I have read stated that the acceleration is sluggish but that has not been the case with the 1.8 liter engine paired with a 5 speed. The best part is that I was able to get close to 350 miles on a single tank of gas and it cost about $30 to completely refill the tank. The only problem I have had other than the usual protege suspension and rust issues is that it is a little cramped when getting in and out due to the steering wheel being a little low. I would recommend this car 100% to anyone looking for a cheap reliable car.
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- Comfort
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- Value
Most reliable car I've owned
MazdaLover, 08/11/2008
1996 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my 96 Protege in 2003 with 89,000 miles on it. I junked it in 2006 with almost 200,000 on it. I never had it in the repair shop once while I owned it (except for oil changes) and it never stalled on me or failed to start. When I dropped this car off in the junkyard I was almost in tears. The motor was in PERFECT condition, never ate oil or even sputtered, I didn't have to drop a dime into the engine on it. The only reason I had to get rid of it is because I drove it so hard the doors were literally falling off of it (string held them closed). I can not stress enough how much I loved this car. I drove it through hell and back- albeit pretty slowly-the car is underpowered-and it never quit.
First Car
daniel , 08/11/2009
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall this car is fantastic. I got it for my 18th birthday and I'm in love with it. The engine is a little underpowered but the manual helps hide it. I just learned how to drive stick shift with this car because it is so easy. The DX trim lacks basic comforts like power anything or cruise control but the car is very easy to work on. The 1.5 liter engine makes incredible gas mileage, I went 80 miles on a little less than a 1/4 tank. Its great for a starter car or student can go forever with proper maintenance.
Great long-term purchase
abinva, 06/23/2012
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my Protege (automatic, not manual) new in 1996, and although one of the buttons on the factory stereo stopped working within one year, I haven't had any major trouble out of this car for most of its life (first actual breakdown occurred in 2010, and wasn't a major system). I am only just now looking to replace it! The ride is responsive and the suspension is nice and firm, and though the 80hp engine is pretty sluggish, that never really bothered me. A simple, practical, reliable vehicle! The one caution I would have is that it has burned through several "lifetime" mufflers, always in the same spot--probably a design flaw. Otherwise, can't complain!
13 years and still running strong
petedaddy, 05/18/2009
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car was purchased new. Current daily commute of 50 miles RT and mileage of 118K. Never garaged and live in Northeast so rust of exhaust system was a problem. Replaced exhaust pipes, then muffler over last two years. Underpowered, but very economical, still average 35+ MPG. Overall this has been an unbelievable good car.
96 Protege DX Great Commuter!
Sarah, 06/28/2009
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
If you want a very dependable car, this is it! The DX model doesn't have all the bells and whistles, kinda a pain without power windows or locks. The giddy-up is slower in high traffic, but responds when needed. The interior space is limiting on long trips, but those inconveniences are minor disabilities. The overall economy is awesome (38-42mpg). You can't go work with this car - I travel 200 miles daily and have had to to little with this car. Routine maintenance (oil, tire rotation, etc). I drove 1100 miles this past weekend and couldn't be happier with the car - super hot and muggy outside and the car was perfect! I'd go anywhere with this car. 98K miles and going very strong
Once again, Mazdas are great solid cars
4xMazda, 11/24/2002
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This Protege is my fourth Mazda. I returned to the smaller body style from the 626 because it is more perky and better on gas mileage. These cars just seem to be custom-made for me-- everything's in comrfortable reach. Very dependable, low maintenance, and a great value!
Great car!!!!
Protege Gal, 07/11/2009
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had my 1996 Mazda Protege DX for 8 years and have Loved it! I did put some money into maintenance over the years...but nothing compared to how little I paid for it. It lacked a little on it's get up and go but It was 100% reliable. Never had to worry about getting where I needed to go. I just bought a new car...and was actually sad to have to leave my protege. I would definitely recommend this as a first time car or as a little zip around town car!!!
Hey, it's a great little car
2young2retire , 07/26/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
At almost 151,000 miles it is still a very reliable car. The only things to fail were the EGR valve at 110,000 miles and the air conditioner condensor cooling fan at 140,000 miles. It just keeps going, and going and going. Doesn't even burn any oil.
Mazda makes it good
JoshS., 09/08/2003
1996 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This mazda I bought at 48,000 miles back in 2001. The car has 85,000 miles on it now and still runs great, even without the standard 60,000 mile tune up. Oil changes been made, and brakes replaced, tires, fluids, etc.. Smooth ride for a compact class car, but if they would of added some cabin insulation it would be nice, but motor runs quiet at highway speeds and around town. It is a zoom zoom car, but if you have weight in the trunk, or people in the back seat, expect to floor it if you want to get up to freeway speed before merging.
Dependable daily drive
teeter64, 06/14/2004
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great gas mileage, very low maintenence, and comfortable seats. I was able to use 2 car seats at the same time in the back seat. The metallic blue still looks good at 8 years old. At 92 hp, won't burn anyone at the traffic light, but consistenly gets 34- 36 mpg. Factory stereo sounds pretty good, but had to have it replaced before warranty ran out, it was eating tapes. A/C unit struggles on really hot days. Get the ES if you want performance.
Decent little car
02Pro5, 11/06/2004
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had the base model for 3 years and had very few problems with it. A few heat shields came loose due to rust, and the muffler and main exhaust pipe had to be replace. Also, within the months of owning it, I had problems with it stalling in wet or damp weather. I replaced the spark plug wires and distributor and also sprayed it with ignition protector, but the problem always seemed to come back. The 1.5 liter is underpowered, especially with the auto trans. Handling is decent (typical for a compact car), but road noise seemed a little high.
Mazda Protege 1996 DX
mazda owner, 11/02/2005
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency. I have a manual with 130K miles and still getting 38+ MPG. Exhaust manifold and alternator replaced in addition to routine maintenance. Simple car that continues be reliable and efficient.
96 Protege DX 1.5L 5 speed manual 86K miles
Philly Pete, 08/01/2006
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great economy sedan. Sips gas, lacks acceleration, good handling and braking. Car is severely underpowered, lacks many creature comforts. A/C works VERY well and the car gets me to and from work. It is pretty good on the highway, but in stop and go driving it is annoying because of the poor acceleration. Lightweight sedan is highly functional as a commuter car. I replaced the tires, brakes, and exhaust since 2003 and performed routine maintenance. That's it and it keeps going strong. I will continue to drive it for as long as possible because of the rising cost of gas.
Great Car
Shanemacisaac, 05/14/2003
1996 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
If your looking for a reliable car mazda protege is it. I have over 230000 miles with no major work having to be done to the car. Just regular maintence.
Never choose this type of car!!
Alice A, 08/21/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
I was regret after I bought this car. The car looks great when you bought it. But I spent $2000 on engine maintainances when I bought the car for $3500.(95k Mileage) Thus, consider any other brand of cars rather than this one... or think twice or three more time when you're going to buy this car...(from honest suggestion!!)
my protege
Jannet Bahraini, 07/24/2009
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car back in November 1995and have been driving it ever since. it is in a good shape. looks like a brand new car and I love to drive it. never had any problem and I 'll recommend Mazda to every friend and family member and to you too!!!
ES Protege
PatrickDT, 02/21/2010
1996 Mazda Protege ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What i like about this car is the sunroof and all the power options.On really bad freeways the car is really bumpy i think it might be the struts or a motor mount i don't know but it really bad over 45 MPH. But for around 1,500-2,000 dollars these are a reliable small little car with Fair MPG and easy to work on.
My first car
Christina, 12/03/2010
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First I would like to say, this is just my experience with this car. Most of the comments hear are pretty good and I think I just got "the bad one". My mother purchased this car for me as a graduation present in 2004. We bought it @ an auction and paid about $2000 with a little over 100k miles. The engine was replace in 2006 and it seemed to be fine. But as time went on I start experiencing unresolved electrical problems, computer problems, and altenator problems. I later found out that the "new engine" was damaged and the odometer was set back. Current its @ 160k (really about 190k), stills runs but on its last leg. We've spent thousands of $$ in repairs. Good car, just do research b4 u buy
my review
hyde68, 08/06/2002
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. It gets great gas mileage. I've only had to get the muffler and brakes fixed once since I bought it and it's fun to drive all over the place.
Very reliable car
RDA, 10/05/2002
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Protege has over 163,000 miles and has had very few problems. Mileage has been 35+ MPG on the highway. The rear seat is roomy enough for my giant teenage boys. I expect this car to make it to 200,000 miles with no major problems.
Shoulda been better!
knuckleballhq, 11/27/2002
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Warranty work included changing both front wheel bearings, a tape-cooking radio with another one that did likewise, and then the fun started. Bearings went in the alternator, A/C compressor, and the MAIN BEARINGS in the engine! I'm kind of a geezer who doesn't beat on cars by any stretch, but this car should not have been losing its bearings from birth.
Great Car
Mickey_58, 12/03/2002
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's a great car never had anyproblems except for the normal brakes, batteries and tires. Going to trade it in for a newer one when I graduate college!!!
fun to drive
savage, 01/28/2003
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my girlfriend's car but, I drive it sometimes too. I think it drives great, good handling. This is my girlfriends first car and I think this is for the price a great starter car, very reliable. She only had to have the windsheild wiper motor replaced other than that it's a great car. 118,000 kms on it and still runs like a perfect...
dependable car
BOBCAT, 08/23/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
very dependable. Comfortable seats for long drives. Excellent gas mileage. large trunk. Bought used, never had any major problems.
Will be sad to see it go.
Minnesota, 08/31/2004
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am the original owner of my 5spd LX. It just turned 200,000 miles last week and has been an outstanding car. It still runs great. It doesn't use any oil and is just starting to rust. The AC no longer works, but everything else does. The mileage is still great too. 38mpg on the highway. If I could have purchased a new one just like it, I would have. I am probably going to go back to driving a much bigger car, but I sure will miss this one.
Mazda Protege Great Car
JsyJack, 09/11/2006
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car, no major problems in the 10 years we've owned it. Would gladly buy another.
Excellent Car
Moe, 12/05/2006
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Dad bought this car brand new and crashed it the same year - body damage only. He gave it to me in 2006 with 84k miles on. Runs excellent. Top marks for fuel efficiency. Nimble handling for a basic car. Tires hug the roads. Very roomy compared to the competition, about the same as my '94 Accord. Shifts very well. Get the five speed to the get the most out of the engine's power and economy. All in all, it is a great first car or a commuter car.
Mazda Protege '96
jwardall, 04/08/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned 4 cars to date, and my mazda is the most fun and reliable one I've owned. Maintenance is low and very economical on gas.
Great little car
Colorado, 07/12/2007
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 62000 miles from someone that had several accidents and didn't take care of it. After a new door, seat and a little work I have put more than 40,000 miles on it. It is a fun car to drive and costs nothing to keep it going.
I wish I could find another!
Joe Taylor, 12/28/2016
1996 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This little gem was a trade-in when my son worked at a Toyota dealership 13 years ago. I paid $1750 for it, and it has been a great car, particularly when it comes to economy and reliability. A few sets of tires, batteries, mufflers . . . one change of the timing belt . . . but what a great transportation machine! I wish I could find another one like this one, because it's nothing fancy, but it fills the bill when it comes to going from Point A to Point B
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need more improvement!
c7edmundyoung, 08/21/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought the car two years ago from friend. It goods great, but after two months, lots of problems existed. Runs poorly when I went uphill, it need more power... brake run badly, and I also need to fix the engire after one year from my purchase. If you're going to choose Mazda Protege, I would suggest you to buy other cars like Honda. More reliability.
good car minor problem
Mr. Wonderful, 07/09/2002
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
i have to replace the rotor every year. repairs very expensive at dealership
Ok in a pinch but don't by otherwise
Morgan G, 03/09/2003
1996 Mazda Protege LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overall I have liked this car for the year that I have had it. When it comes to power the protege has none. With a 90 HP moter, the car does terribly on hills and when accelerating. The automatic transmission was really slow to down shift unless you really floored it. If power isn't your thing it might be a good car. Also the radio is really low and hard to see when driving. Go with a Honda