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

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 under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Mazda Protege engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the 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,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I use water in my Mazda Protege radiator?

It’s not recommended you put water in your Protege radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.

Why did my Protege engine suddenly stop?

Reasons your Protege car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.

Who fixes Mazda Protege engines?

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 2003 Mazda Protege

Learn about

2003 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.

L4/1.6L

L4/2.0L

2003 Mazda Protege Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Mazda Protege’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Click on a repair below to learn more about 2003 Mazda Protege repairs.

We Know Mazda Protege Engines

The Mazda Protege is respected for its reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought 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 2003 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 is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

My 2003 Mazda Protege Check Engine Light Is On

If your Protege check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your fuel, Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, a problem with your 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 we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs it's time for Mazda Protege engine service might include essential fluid leaks, or engine misfiring.

Mazda Protege Engine Repair

When your Mazda Protege engine needs repairs, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, 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 2003 Protege engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Mazda-compliant replacement parts such as the serpentine belt, engine oil seal, sensors, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 2003 Mazda Protege

Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Protege? 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 under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Mazda Protege engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the 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,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I use water in my Mazda Protege radiator? It’s not recommended you put water in your Protege radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.
Why did my Protege engine suddenly stop? Reasons your Protege car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.
Who fixes Mazda Protege engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Mazda Protege engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.