98 protege

[aeflower9]

i was wondering how hard it is to work on these cars i was thinking of buying one, but wanted some info first. things like water pump timeing belt, alt, starter. any other info would be great thanks everyone

[Flash75]

They aren't easy to work on, but I don't know of any front wheel drive vehicles that are easy to work on. If a timing belt is replaced it's a good time to replace the water pump because it's open when the timing covers and belt are removed. There is limited space to work and you may need a hoist or some other means of supporting the engine, I believe the motor mount has to be discannected to remove the belt. You will also need a floor jack and sond jack stands.

Clifton

[jrdwyer]

I'll second what Clifton says, the '95-'98 Protege is not easy to work on due to limited engine bay space. Oil/filter changes are not too bad with ramps or jack stands and plug/wires are simple, but some maintenance items are only quick if you are standing under the car when it's on a lift.

On the other hand, my '95 Protege with 206K miles is still using the original alternator, starter, clutch, engine, power steering pump, radiator, A/C condenser, heater core, fuel pump, fuel injectors, etc. My day of reckoning for such parts is coming!

Part failures have included the exhaust manifold, A/C compressor clutch, EGR valve, O2 sensor, muffler (connector flange not the muffler itself), and the rubber air intake snorkel. Intermediate wear items include spark plug wires, distributor cap/rotor, timing-belt/water pump, fuel filter, and struts. Then you have all the regular wear items like brake pads, tires, battery, etc. I've done all this work except the timing belt/water pump changes and the A/C.

Some front/all wheel drive vehicles that come with a 4 cyl. engine but have an engine bay designed for either a 4 or 6 cyl. do have more space for service. One of the best (space wise) with this setup is the Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute SUV. Other less spacious examples include sedans like the Mazda 6/Honda Accord/Toyota Camry.

I do feel that a well-maintained Protege is a good bet for a used car.