Looking to purchase mazda protege 5

[ogdenmazda]

I'm looking to purchase a 2003 mazda protege 5 from a local dealer, its currently got 73000 miles, and looks in overall good condition. I've heard they have some issues with the egr, and intake manifold, but am not sure how much of an issue they truly play, as well as if they are covered by any recalls. I'd like to know any issues to keep an eye out for, and when they usually become a problem. Any other advice or heads up would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!

 

[P-Funk!]

Great car - i have mine at almost a quarter million miles and she stilll pulls strong.

Look for:
Body rust (hood/fenders)
Rough idle (EGR)
Research VTCS/VICS screw issues (the intake manifold problem)

 

[Hundred]

Great car - i have mine at almost a quarter million miles and she stilll pulls strong.

Look for:
Body rust (hood/fenders)
Rough idle (EGR)
Research VTCS/VICS screw issues (the intake manifold problem)

Your my hero!! I was wondering how many miles I can get out the beast but you just proved I got many years still left in her. I was this close to trading her in or selling her but I held on to her.

 

[alexelie]

the guy is right! those cars will last for very long if treated good. Body on the other side will rust

 

[Balls]

Ogdenmazda, are you in Ogden NY? What year is the P5? Condition? I have had mine for three years and love it.

 

[Balls]

Just saw the year, my bad. I havn't had any of the issues that you are concerned with if that helps at all.

 

[Larkin W.]

I love my P5

My only problem/disappointment with these cars has been how easily they rust. Its almost as if there is no primer. Little rock chips will turn into rust very easily. It's like late 80's early 90's Hondas. Definitely look for signs of rust starting in fender wells, inside of the doors, at hood and trunk edges, ect. I didn't look close enough on mine and while I love it, the rust pisses me off.

 

[spotthedogg]

I repainted my 2002 in 2006 and I have no rust, the tailgate started to go and the bottom of drivers door before paint. Of course it hasn't seen winter for four years