Mazda Protege Recalls

The Mazda Protege has 11 recalls spanning the 1990–2000 model years, with the most serious being a fire risk on 1990–1998 vehicles where grease inside the ignition switch can become conductive, overheat, and ignite.

The 2000 model year has a brake issue where the left rear brake hose can be damaged during assembly, leak fluid, and reduce braking performance. The 1999 model year has a fire risk tied to the factory-installed audio unit: in hot and humid conditions with the windows open and the air conditioner running, condensation from the A/C duct can drip into the audio unit, short-circuit a specific set of terminals, and cause the rear right speaker to overheat and catch fire.

The 1995 model year carries several issues. The tie-down hooks on the undercarriage can strike a curb or pavement and trigger the airbag to deploy without warning, injuring occupants. Engine valve springs on 1995 vehicles can develop cracks and break, causing engine noise, piston damage, and stalling. The headlight wiring running through the turn signal lever can fatigue and fail, causing a gradual or total loss of headlights while driving.

Going further back, the 1992 model year has a compliance issue where the owner's manual contains incorrect installation instructions for child restraint tether anchors.