1998 Mazda Protege Engine cooling Problems

“Called Mazda dealer in regards to cracked exhaust manifold basically told me that since it wasn't under warranty anymore there was nothing they could do. I have called 25 different salvage yards in georgia and this seems to be a hot item right now because I can't get one. To buy one from the dealer will cost me over $300.00 . I know there should be a recall on this.”

“Part warranty 80,000, I live 75 miles from nearest dealer. Dealer quoted 900.00 to replace part and refused to honor warranty since it was 1,000 miles over by time vehicle was taken to shop. Contacted manufacturer, Mazda america and they entertained idea of fixing under warranty then changed mind because dealer told them I had not had routine maintenance like oilo changes, tire replacements etc. Done at dealership. I think this is.”

“Re:manifold. A crack begins from the engine side.dealer stated the first it happened a stone must have come up & hit it. This is an imposibility. Now after replacing it it has occurred again.crack is in the same place.beginning from the engine side. Every time this occurs, exhaust fumes enter the passenger compartment.re: windshield.wipers do not clean the driver side & have never done so since I purchased the car.wipers have been replaced & does not help.in a driving rain I have to slow down to 50 MPH to wipe clean.”

“Exhaust manifold crack in 1998 mazada Protege. Recently there has been a burning smell in the cabin. My mechanic found that it is due to the exhaust manifold crack and told me that it is a common problem for 95-98 Protege. He thought it might be in the bulletin. I took his suggestion and called the dealer, but the answer was negative. I am very concerned because the monoxide from the exhaust could potentially kill a person in silence. I have been driving the car with the window open most time, just to be safe. I hope that Mazda will place a recall on it”

“The catalytic converter was replaced back in 09/01. I was told it would be replaced for free! I left paying $66.11 to replace catalytic converter. I have also had to replace a portion of the AC unit on 05/23/02. One month later approximately 6/25/02 I then heard a loud exhust noise. I had the vehicle looked at by a friend who found that the manifold had a siginificantly large crack. Moreover, the smell within the passenger campartment of the vehicle is extreme to the point when we get out of the car we have the smell of exhust fumes in our hair and clothes. …”