Mazda Protegé

chikoo

if the car engine is running, the remote locks don't work....found it the hard way...I started the engine to warm up in the cold snowing morning today...locked the doors and went back inside for my breakfast....tried using the spare remote to open the doors...no response....I was worried, now what? How do I go to work leaving the car engine running & doors locked? Should I call the dealer?

Man....the remote keyless really makes one crazy. I did not even think of using the damned KEY. My wife suggested that...and I could only kick myself in my [non-permissible content removed]

jstandefer

Don't worry chikoo. I've been smitten by the keyless entry craziness as well. Just this weekend I went out to the car and it wouldn't unlock with the keyless entry (I think the remote battery is dying). I just sat outside on the curb and nearly started crying. How was I going to get in the car? I think this was the first time I actually used the key in the car. The funny thing is, I used to demonstrate to new owners how to use the dual-stage unlock features with the key... in the driver's door, a simple turn of the key unlocks the driver's door only... however, if you hold it for a second, all of the doors unlock... blah, blah... Anyways, I felt stupid... and no, I really didn't come close to crying, but it sounded good, didn't it?

chikoo

It sure did make me feel good

nikecar

I too would kick myself it that happened to me..

vocus

I have asked this before, but will ask again because I don't think anyone answered before. I have the 2001 ES, and when I use the keyless entry system, the hazard flashers flick twice when I unlock the doors, and once when I lock it. Also, if I push the door "lock" button a second time to confirm, it chirps the horn rather loudly. On the panic mode, the horn blows very loudly and quickly, and the hazards flash. I drove a 2000 ES before, and I don't think the keyless entry had verification on it. Am I right?

I hopefully (everyone cross their fingers) will get my baby back from the body shop today. I called this morning (like I have everyday since last Thursday when they said it MIGHT be ready), and they said it was being painted and should be ready by the close of business today. Looks like the ride home will be more fun than I thought, eh?

jstandefer

The '99-'00 keyless entry system did not provide verification of the lock and unlock process. In other words, it did not flash the hazards when it was locked or unlocked. However, just like the 2001, if the lock button was pressed twice within 5 seconds, the horn sounded once to verify that the doors are locked. The panic feature operates the same way.

I certainly wish the '99-'00 had the light verification. Sometimes when I'm walking away from the car and press the lock button, I can't hear the door locks. At night, I don't like to verify the locks using the press-twice-horn-chirp method, and it also attracts unwanted attention in parking lots.

protegextwo

Well,... it seems there is some intrigue over your chosen profession? Mr. T, you certainly seem very very knowledable about the Mazda Protege and the auto business, in general. I do not wish to intrude on your privacy, however in the spirit of comradery would you consider ending the intrigue? Please, due tell Maltb from Irvine, CA. how have you obtained your significant auto knowledge and is that related to your profession?

Respectfully;
Larry

jstandefer

I've tried as well, Larry. I don't have any idea as to what maltb does or where he gets his ever-helpful information. I do absolutely respect and admire his position on the matter.

protegextwo

I applaud you for speaking your mind! I have and will continue, to do the same. I agree, if every one who posted at this discussion was a "fair-haired" supporter of the Mazda Protege, we could not continue a valid and interesting thread! However, I have never enjoyed the company of a querulous pessimist. In that spirit, I will make this commitment. I will refrain from commenting on your opinions. Others here might not see your posts the same way I do. I do not wish to create negative feelings at this discussion.

Respectfully;
Larry

protegextwo

Paul, enjoy my friend. I hope it looks as good as new!

-Larry

protegextwo

I thought, if Malty shared a little more of himself, to the regulars here, it would enhance and further validate his opinions. I certainly respect ANY ONES right to privacy, on the internet. However, when you become a regular at a Edmunds Town Hall discussion it is customary to "let your hair down", a little bit. Kind of like the regulars at the corner bar. ;-)

Larry

vocus

The repair shop still has not finished painting the front bumper to my car, so I won't be able to pick it up tonight. Unfortunately, I have to wait until tomorrow for the car. Will it ever be done???

maltb

If it helps you can call me Norm or Cliff(I always wanted to be a postal carrier).

Other than that, I'd just rather not say. If you find what I post helpful, use it. If not, disregard me.

sfrat

Think positive. Even though its taking them a long time, just be glad they're taking their time and it will (hopefully) look great. The alternative is a rush job that looks crappy. Probably doesn't help much, but I tried! :-)

Steve

maltb

Why not stop by there on the way home to see your baby? Some of my more negative experience with body shops is that the status of your vehicle over the phone is not always correct. Just drop by and tell them you need to grab your sunglasses out of the car.

sfrat

I know everyone wants to know, but does it really matter? Its obvious that he works in some capacity for Mazda or for a company that works with Mazda; that much can be discerned from his posts. Of course, neither of those could be correct. My point is somehow he has access to "insider" knowledge, tools, stickers, etc. and he is willing to share with all of us to help us with an unruly salesperson, at the parts counter, or find that protege without a casette player. I say don't kill the messenger. I'd rather have have access to his knowledge than knowledge about his association with Mazda (assuming one exists). I mean no one any disrespect at all. I just think if someone wants to share what they do with others great, if not, that's fine with me too.

Steve

vocus

I talked to the body shop manager (I called every day since Thursday because that's when they promised it). He told me they couldn't paint the bumper yet, because they were afraid it would shrink or something like that (I have been busy as hell here at work today, and had to rush him off the phone kinda).

It's not like it's inconveniencing me or anything, because I have a rental car (2001 Saturn L-200) which my insurance company is paying for. It's just that I fear that I am going to die of boredum on planet Saturn soon.

the_big_h

when my ES was in the shop back in december, everytime I called the shop they said it will be ready in a few days. Turns out 'a few days' meant SIX FRIGGIN' WEEKS! Granted that hitting a deer gave my ES quite a bit of damage, but the most stressful part is that they keep getting your hopes up and then let you down big time by saying 'oh, it will be ready in a few days/by tomorrow' when they're far from ready.

Hope you WILL get your car back tomorrow

H

fritz1224

I guess I just didn't realize how much leeway there is in the interpretation of "A","P", "M" and "G". I didn't make these things up, but I may be a pessimist in believing the results. Is that what you mean, Prox2 ?

PS But I'm almost positive I'm not 'quer'.

jstandefer

I remember reading about a year ago that Mazda had just completed the certification process for a 5-cyl engine in the U.S. Was I dreaming that day (I don't think so since my-then Mazda sales manager brought it up to my attention)? Is the Miller-Cycle gone after the current Millenia rides off into the sunset? When will the 3.0L Duratec make its way into the MPV? What will the official name be for the upcoming Protege 5/Sport Wagon/5-Door Sport? Can I get in Sunburst Yellow? Please tell me the Premacy will not see the light of day in U.S. showrooms. I just don't think the American public will go for that type of vehicle. The positive feedback from the autoshow circuit will be based on all of the electronic gadgets on the concept that don't stand a chance on making it into the production model. Am I just ranting on today, or what? Maybe I shouldn't have had those 5 cups of coffee at lunch...

newcar31

Speaking of negative protoge things, I don't like the carpeting in my 2001 ES at all. It is very hard to vaccuum out dead grass and crushed up leaves even though I have a double layer of floor mats. Its almost like the dirt and stuff gets woven in with the carpet permanently. Oh well, I didn't do any carpet research when I bought the car and I didn't even pay attention to it on the test drive. Like it would have stopped me from buying the car anyways. I still go out in my driveway and stare at it all the time. It looks nice. Silver with 35% tint.

gitarzan

Re: dual level key locks...
jstandefer, I didn't know about the dual level key locks! I ran out and tried and it's pretty cool. I guess it's nothing more than an extension of the keyless system but I must have skipped that page in the manual. Anyway, it was the first time the key was used by me.

Re: Names...
On another topic, I just refer my LX as "The Pro." It hasn't told me it's name yet.

Re: Colors...
Black Mica can't be beat. It looks fast just standing still.

Re: Dings...
No dings yet (knock on wood). This weekend the ball&chain and I went to a triple feature movie and I parked on the street behind an old beat up SUV (before they were called SUV's) and noted that the SUV driver didn't seemed too bright. The SUV guy had a kid with him and I guessed they were only there for the first movie. I was right! I ran out between shows just in time to see the doofus come about 3" from The Pro's nose. I hopped in and I moved The Pro back a few feet and Mr. SUV rolled back another foot. I'm sure he would have used my car as a curb feeler if I hadn't come barreling out of the theatre.

You know, you aren't paranoid when they're really out to get you.

-Zoom Zoom

maltb

Jerry,
The Premacy on the circuit was a production vehicle from Europe. I haven't taken a close look at it, but a view from afar was enough to tell me that it's not the kind of Protege(yes, platform sharing again) I'm interested in.

chikoo

please come over to the owners forum and help me out, please.

notminehers

"Casper" is back to the dealership for the protective package....undercoat, perma-seal the paint and scotch-guard. Paid $225.00 - probably a sucker but did'nt want to do it myself. Detail shop claims the undercoat will cut road noise by 70% ?? I'll believe it when I hear it. They gave me a 1999 Taurus to drive for 2 days.....it rattles, groans and makes me glad our PRO ES will be back!! Greg

gitarzan

Re: dual level key locks...
jstandefer, I didn't know about the dual level key locks! I ran out and tried and it's pretty cool. I guess it's nothing more than an extension of the keyless system but I must have skipped that page in the manual. Anyway, it was the first time the key was used by me.

Re: Names...
On another topic, I just refer my LX as "The Pro." It hasn't told me it's name yet.

Re: Colors...
Black Mica can't be beat. It looks fast just standing still.

Re: Dings...
No dings yet (knock on wood). This weekend the ball&chain and I went to a triple feature movie and I parked on the street behind an old beat up SUV (before they were called SUV's) and noted that the SUV driver didn't seemed too bright. The SUV guy had a kid with him and I guessed they were only there for the first movie. I was right! I ran out between shows just in time to see the doofus come about 3" from The Pro's nose. I hopped in and I moved The Pro back a few feet and Mr. SUV rolled back another foot. I'm sure he would have used my car as a curb feeler if I hadn't come barreling out of the theatre.

You know, you aren't paranoid when they're really out to get you.

-Zoom Zoom

jstandefer

Will it be the Protege MP3, or just the MP3? Also, is it just going to be offered in Sapphire Blue or Sunburst Yellow as well?

tocan

I've been lurking here (and in the hatchback forum) looking for information on the Protege5/Sport Wagon, but since I seem to have more information than others, I'll give what I have found. Please note that all of my discussion is of Canadian specs; because our market is so much smaller than the US market, we generally have fewer choices.

At the Canadian International Auto Show there were spec sheets available, and my information comes from that, or from the press release announcing the model from the Mazda Canada web site.

http://www.mazda.ca/eng/atmazda/press/press2001protege.html

In Canada, they are calling it the Protege5. Basically, all of the features are the same as the (Canadian) Protege ES plus 16" alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, ABS with EBDF and what they call a rear roof spoiler. The only options available are automatic transmission, air conditioning, and power glass moonroof. It will be available in 5 colours (Sunlight Silver Metallic, Black Mica, Midnight Blue, Classic Red and Sunburst Yellow).

When I took the ES out for a test drive 2 weeks ago, the salesman said that they were expected their first 10 Protege5's in May, and that the Sunburst Yellow was NOT coming in the first shipment. But Mazda Canada has not yet announced MSRP, so I don't know how firm that date is.

It looks from the specs that the Protege5 is shorter than the sedan (4331mm vs. 4450mm) a difference of slightly less than 5 inches. I would really like to know how big the hatch area is with the front seats down (not a volume measurement, I want to know how far it is from the back of the front seats to the hatch) but I haven't been able to get that information.

For those that are interested in pictures, here are a couple of links.

http://www.velocityjrnl.com/jrnl/2002/v2kmdl2446mult.html

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/010202t-4-11.htm

In Australia this model seems to be called the Astina Sport20. There are lots of pictures here, but the model doesn't seem to be identical to the North American version (the taillights are different, in addition to the fact that Aussies drive on the left). They also seem to have more colour choices than we will have in Canada.
http://www.mazda.com.au/sp20/874.html

I hope this helps. I've been enjoying what I've been reading, and I've learned a lot. Protege owners (at least those who frequent places like this) are very passionate about their cars.

chikoo

digidave

Man, you guys are quick to the punch! I just finished posting a reply to an owner considering getting keyless entry installed on a new vehicle (on accs & mods), mentioning my ordeal (or rather discovery) of how the keyless system works when lo and behold, the same info is posted here. Cool. But how come the other message boards are not used as much as this one (for appropriately titled subjects)? Just curious what the general consensus is...

Dave

theparallax

I'm proud to say I have NO dings in on my 99 LX that I've had since Sept. 99. I try to park away from cars whenever possible, and when I can't, I leave enough space on both sides so the cars next to me won't hit my doors.

The only blemishes I have on the car are a small rock chip on the front bumper, some scratches on the rear left fender that came out of nowhere, and some slight pits in the rear bumper from when my father backed my car into a sign pole! (No other damage to the bumpers thankfully)

panamaltd2

Hey, I own a 2000 prot. ES. At my high school there are some very spoiled kids (including me!:). My friend has a 2000 BMW 323 and he wanted to drive my car to see how it felt so I let him. All the way through the montains he was smiling and commenting on how much fun it was to drive ( all the while I am grinning with pride from ear to ear.) When we got back to his house all he could say was WOW, all i could do was smile. This car always makes me proud! I just love it. Zoom-zoom everybody!
P.S.- My teachers have caught me writing "zoom" all over my paper and drawing pics of my car, oops hehe! (Their just jealous!)I to have also downloaded the Zoom-Zoom song and always play it in my car. Jeeze to much fun!

kerensky

I was wondering if anyone had bought their 2001 Protege with Mazda's new modular 6-Disc in-dash CD Changer. I really like how it looks, but was wondering if anyone could tell me how it sound. Especially how it compares to a good aftermarket CD head unit. Also, does anyone know how many, if any, RCA speaker/subwoofer output connectors it has? I appreciate any help.

speedypt

Thanks man...I am a bit gutzy behind the wheel. I am hating the weather, roads and general lack of sunshine...but I have gained a 50-70% increase in pay, REAL cheese-fries, and the good company of long-time family and friends.

I am seriously considering trading Trigger for a Protege MP3 when it comes out. I stroked one of the salesmen at my local dealer who swears he'll call me before it comes off the truck. I promised him I'd buy from him if I could be the first "kid" on my block to own the MP3 Pro.

If I don't get the MP3, I will seriously be considering the Protege5 (or whatever it gets called) when it comes out. I saw an Audi S4 Wagon in bright yellow yesterday and for a few minutes thought it was the Pro5 Wagon. Too wierd....

Regards to all and welcome to all the new Pro owners here! Lets hear all those car names!!!

Pete

maltb

Pete,
If you haven't put a deposit down yet, it's not likely that the MP3 will be available. With only 1500 being produced this year, they will be hard to come by and I've heard that they are pretty much pre-sold out.

However, if you manage to find one it's a heck of a deal. It would cost 3-4k to do all the mods yourself, but best of all it all comes with a warranty.

sfrat

On my way to the train station this morning, I got stuck behind a dump truck that was spitting out stones. I heard a couple of pings before I was able to back off and get around him. Didn't get a chance to inspect for any chips. I'm hoping there's none, but worried nontheless.

Steve

vocus

That's how I lost a windshield, to a dump truck. I chased his butt right up 97 North and got the phone number too. I called and told the company I would like a new windshield, and got one too. It cost $305, and they came to my work and replaced it free for me. Best of luck to you though. Believe me, I know how it is to have a brand new car in the repair/body shop. It's not pleasant!

sfrat

I'm hoping I don't find anything. The sound of stones hitting the sheetmetal of a brand new car is the worst sound in the world. He was going waaay fast, passing people like crazy, really irresponsible. (This was on Rt 100, btw). So I'll take a look tonight and hope there are no chips.

vocus

Even if you do find damage, they are not going to do anything about it. Your insurance would treat the repair as an "uninsured motorist" claim (that's what mine was classified as). You should have gotten the truck's info off the driver's door. And they will say anyway that it could have been caused by a passing vehicle or something like that, and not their truck. It's hard to prove unless you call them right when it happend (on a cell phone) and tell them about it. That's what I did, and that's how I got my windshield fixed for nothing too. Best of luck and I will definitely pray for you that there is no damage.

I am still suppose to pick up my car today, but it's now 3pm and the body shop hasn't called yet to tell me it's ready. I am slowly losing hope that I will be ZOOM ZOOMing this evening...

norcan

I get a nice big shock when I walk up to my ES and open the door, then I get it again putting the key into the ignition. Another on the way out of the car.

There's low humidity outside plus new synthetic cloth seats and yep, my shoes insulate me from the ground.

Help!

browntrout1

I just saw a report on the APA (automotive protection agency) here in Canada and they ranked the Honda Civic and Mazda Protege as best in economy cars. They went on to say that the Honda is expensive to buy used and that both cars are very reliable, including older models. I think Nissan Maxima and Toyota Camry were the other 2 cars in the sedan category. Worst rating you say...Saturns!! The guy said that he wrote a letter to GM to get them to extend the warranty on Saturns because of expensive engine problems including very high oil consumption.

Just wanted to share that little bit of bright news for all of us who made a smart choice by picking the Protege.

digidave

What are you guys talking about? You can pick up an MP3 right now on eBay (bids starting at $3.99!) Just check out: 2001 Mazda Protege MP3

;-)

jk111

Not to mention car and driver, consumer reports.. they are awhile back tho.
Anyone ever "raced" their proteges before? I just want to know how it fares against other compacts. I managed to beat a neon manual like 1/2 year ago.

jstandefer

I have raced many other compacts and generally have no problem beating them. Even the lightly modified Civic's generally won't race me anymore.

Actually, in terms of professional racing, Paul Bonaccorsi has won the past three championships in SCCA Stock class C racing with a '99 Protege ES! And it looks like he is prepping an MP3 for racing! Check out his site at:

http://www.bonaccorsiracing.com

the_big_h

I sure would love to get my Pro on a track and let it loose, but will probably do it when the odo hits the big 10000. I searched on the web and seems like the best place for some recreational high speed track driving is at Summit Point in West Virginia, anybody been there before?

vocus

To stop the zapping, touch the ignition key (metal point) to the door frame before you touch it with your hand. It will discharge the static electricity from your body and you will not get shocked. It used to happen to me in the winter with my 1999 DX all the time, until I started touching the key. Try it.

FINALLY got my car back tonight from the repair shop! I am so happy, I could just scream! They even washed and waxed it. Looks just like the day I bought it off the showroom floor. The repair total was $425, not including the damn $250 deductible I had to pay for the car. Oh well, at least it's fixed for now and I am happy.

I was playing around with these two teenage girls in a Mirage tonight. The light turned green and the driver floored it. And so did I, baby! Passed them as I dropped first gear at 6500 rpm. Goes to show "cute" always doesn't win. Just kidding.

ZOOM ZOOM!!! Back in FULL effect!!

the_big_h

now go post a pic of your awesome black mica Zoomer and shock the world!!! (well ok, just at Edmund's Protege Owners' Club )

nikecar

you had me there ofr a second.. I thought it was for the right to buy one.. like if the guy was #565 to buy one and he wanted to give up his spot... I saw another car auction like that. For a Audi or BMW or something.. he put down a deposit on one of the few being made, and decided he didn't want it so he was auctioning off his spot.

maltb

The Protege is so competitive on the track that the SCCA has forced special regulations on it just to try and "level" the playing field. It seems that Chrysler put a lot of pressure on the SCCA to make their Neons not look so bad. The funny thing was that they made the Proteges cut their power because the handling was so good compared to the already more powerful Neon.

Go figure!

jstandefer

Much like the rotary engine before it, the racing authorities will slowly impose more and more restrictions until it's nearly impossible to race.

I think the European and US manufacturers are still a little ticked off that Mazda won the 24 Hours of Le Mans back in 1991. The fact that a Japanese company won (and to this day, the ONLY Japanese company that has won) was a disgrace in their eyes, and the fact that it was a rotary engine that won made it that much worse. The car was Mazda's 1831 lb 787B with a 4-rotor 700hp engine, and it finished 27.2km ahead of the second place car. The rotary was banned in 1992, but that ban was lifted shortly after.

Mazda has hinted several times that we could see a return of factory-backed teams racing rotary engines in the near-future. Certainly, if Mazda could get back in there and start dominating the racetracks once again, it would be great publicity for the launch of the upcoming RX-8.