Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Protege?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. It’s just your Protege firing up its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.

Why is my Mazda Protege making engine noise?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mazda Protege. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage a Mazda engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Mazda Protege engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I put water in my Mazda Protege radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Protege radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause a Protege engine to suddenly stop?

Your Protege car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.

Where can I go for Mazda Protege repair?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Mazda Protege engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 Mazda Protege

Learn about

1996 Mazda Protege Trim Options

Select your Mazda Protege trim level to learn more about Mazda-recommended engine repair. Even Mazda Protege parts will get older and change.

L4/1.5L

L4/1.8L

Mazda Protege Repairs and Services

Stuff wears out. Even your Mazda Protege's many parts and pieces. We’re here to help when something stops working. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1996 Mazda Protege repairs.

We Care for Mazda Protege Engines

The Mazda Protege is respected for its reliability. You probably thought about that when you got it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Things can go sideways sometimes. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1996 Mazda Protege engine repair or replacement parts. That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. Since 1926, we’ve taken care of 500 million+ cars, so you can rest assured knowing your Mazda Protege engine will be in good hands. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1996 Mazda Protege

If your Protege check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s flashing or steadily illuminated could point to problems with your or emission control system that won’t go away on its own. Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your Protege in for an on-board diagnostic check and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine rattling, essential fluid leaks, or engine misfiring.

1996 Protege Engine Services

If your 1996 Mazda Protege needs engine repair, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Mazda Protege engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Mazda-compliant replacement parts such as the serpentine belt, oil gasket, fuses, or other parts.

1996 Mazda Protege Engine Q&A

Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Protege? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. It’s just your Protege firing up its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
Why is my Mazda Protege making engine noise? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mazda Protege. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage a Mazda engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Mazda Protege engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I put water in my Mazda Protege radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Protege radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause a Protege engine to suddenly stop? Your Protege car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Where can I go for Mazda Protege repair? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Mazda Protege engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.