Why does my Protege’s check engine light come on when I start it?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your Protege testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why is my Mazda Protege making engine noise?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mazda Protege. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage my Mazda Protege engine?

Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I add water to my Mazda Protege radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my 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.

Who can repair my Mazda Protege engine?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Mazda Protege engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!

Engine Repairs for Your 1997 Mazda Protege

Learn about

1997 Mazda Protege Trim Options

Select your Mazda Protege trim level to learn more about Mazda-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/1.5L

L4/1.8L

Repairs for Your 1997 Mazda Protege

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Mazda Protege’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1997 Mazda Protege services.

We Know Mazda Protege Engines

The Mazda Protege is respected for its reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go sideways sometimes. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1997 Mazda service center — quick! Luckily, you won’t have to look far, since Firestone Complete Auto Care has 1,700+ locations across the country. We've serviced millions of vehicles since 1926, and our professional technicians are trained to service Mazda Protege engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1997 Mazda Protege

As soon as your Protege check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your fuel injection, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Protege issues diagnosed and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine pinging noises, burning smells, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

1997 Protege Engine Services

When your Mazda Protege engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 1997 Protege engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Mazda-approved parts and fluids — timing belt, engine oil seal, sensors, or another part.

Engine Q&A 1997 Mazda Protege

Why does my Protege’s check engine light come on when I start it? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your Protege testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why is my Mazda Protege making engine noise? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mazda Protege. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage my Mazda Protege engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I add water to my Mazda Protege radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my 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.
Who can repair my Mazda Protege engine? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Mazda Protege engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!