Buying 2002/3 Protoge 5 looking for tips

[alfkaech]

Hey all you Protege gurus. I am buying my first one and woudl love to get your advice. I need to know what to look out for as I am checking out cars (timing belt, etc...). The ones I have seen are between 140,000 - 210,000 kms. I am looking to tune it as soon as I get it with cold air, short shifter, and a EC chip. Advice welcome.
A

 

[Clarkbug]

Im guessing since you listed distance in kms, you are from the great white North? If thats the case, definitely be on the lookout for rust in the wheel wells, the back hatch, and along your fenders. I would say that, along with other obvious signs that are common to any car to look out for (low oil pressure, grinding transmission noises, etc.) would really be the most serious.

You can check the motor mounts for failure, which is common on these cars. An easy fix, but might give you some leverage on the price.

Im sure others will have more to contribute soon!

 

[Kurtanius21]

Take a look under the rear wheel wheels. Keep an eye out for rust. Also, take the car for a test drive and watch idle characteristics. If it bogs, sputters, or varies rpm, make sure to look up the egr cleaning how tos. Try to get a stick shift. This slow car desperately needs the tidbits of power. Other than that, great choice. For the most part, P5s are reliable. Just take it for a test drive before paying up. Don't buy someone elses problems. Thats all the insight I can offer.