There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Mazda Protege, but owners have filed 120 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Mazda Protege problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 35 | |
| Seat Belts | 17 | |
| Power Train | 13 | |
| Suspension | 12 | |
| Air Bags | 10 | |
| Tires | 10 | |
| Steering | 7 | |
| Engine | 6 | |
| Structure | 4 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 4 | |
| Seats | 4 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 4 | |
Most reported parts
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 13
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe — 6
- Structure › Body — 3
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly › Pedal/Hand Lever(Motorcycle) — 3
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
- Suspension › Front — 3
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 2
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 67,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mazda Protege complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Engine · at 188,000 miles · reported Mar 16, 2020
The contact owns a 2003 mazda protege. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine and timing belt needed to be replaced. The engine was taken apart and the mechanic found a screw inside of the intake valve. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 188,000.
Engine · at 130,280 miles · reported Mar 2, 2020
Rough idle causing to stall while driving, check engine light on for cylinder misfire, found cylinder 4 with a bent spark plug with the gap closed. Replaced all 4 plugs car ran fine for a few months only to have the same issue cylinder misfire with cylinder 4 with another bent plug gap closed. Possible something loose inside cylinder 4 causing the misfire issues to the plug. Mileage 130,280
Air Bags · at 112,000 miles · reported Aug 30, 2019
2003 mazda protege would not pass 2019 virginia safety inspection due to defective passenger side airbag. Dealer cannot replace because mazda has discontinued that part. Under virginia law, car cannot be operated without valid inspection certificate. Inspection disclosed no other disqualifying conditions.
Steering · at 8,000 miles · reported Dec 5, 2017
Excessive wear in the area inside and outside in tires ... Many several workshops can not correct the alignment fault ... The steering wheel go to the right and I have to force to the left ... All the front and rear suspension part are new , including the shock absorber is new and control arm and link rod and bushing ...the centric bolt not correct the failure ...I see over ethernet many people has the same fail in this car ..I buy this car new and never crashed or or mistreated ..I report this in this year because people have told me it's a manufacturing fault..and I have had too much…
Air Bags · at 150,000 miles · reported Mar 6, 2016
2003 mazda protege 5 was traveling approximately 45mph and struck a moving vehicle in the rear quarter panel. No air bag was deployed in the mazda protege 5. The other vehicle's airbags deployed.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mazda Protege have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Mazda Protege as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mazda Protege?
Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (35 reports), followed by seat belts (17). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 67,000 miles.
Are Mazda recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mazda dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.