Bought an 2003 protege lx to replace my first car

[Black03protege]

Hello i am new to this forum and wanted to know what things do i need to know about my 2003 protege lx 5speed manual i bought this in august to replace my first car a 1999 hyundai accent gl. We are currently in the process of getting the head fixed number 4 cylnder had low compresson we are getting it fixed at the local macine shop any help is appricated

 

[00protegees]

If head is off do a full valve job. The 2 liters have issues with I believe valve stem seals leaking. Someone more knowledgeable can chime in, or do a search on it.

 

[Black03protege]

Thank you we are doing a full valve job and head is being completly redone as well at the local machine shop

 

[Maria03mp5]

Hello i am new to this forum and wanted to know what things do i need to know about my 2003 protege lx 5speed manual i bought this in august to replace my first car a 1999 hyundai accent gl. We are currently in the process of getting the head fixed number 4 cylnder had low compresson we are getting it fixed at the local macine shop any help is appricated

I also recently acquired a protege to replace my old car, ive had it since November of last year. It had some issues from being driven hard. Most notable thing is these engines internals are well engineered; I like the solid lifters and short stroke and how free revving it is. However, the internals are a bit unreliable. Thankfully my compression was good and no leaks in the head. The issues I had were with the intake mani and the lifters. There are two sets of valves in the mani, VTCS and VICS. The variable tumble control is strictly an emissions thing. It helps with cold start emissions. Most people decide to delete this set of valves to let more air through. The variable intake control shortens or lengthens the runners air flow basdf on rpm. Theres a manufacturing flaw with these valves that makes the screws holding them in to fall out. I had a hunch that mine had an issues with the vics or vtcs because of the acceleration performance and low and behold when I took it out it sounded like it was full of pennies. My engine could have sucked it all in! The lifters also are very loud so keep that oil clean, I had to replace mine

 

[concept]

Guys, it always helps others if you note your car's odometer reading (approximate number is fine). Our 2002 Protg ES (with 2.0L engine) has had no issues at 115,500 miles, other than maintenance and replacement of worn stuff.
According to Consumer Reports, Proteges and Mazda 3s have been very reliable.
Thanks