I've got a Mazda Protege 5 that's only a few years old and I'm already getting rust around the Protege 5 decal on the back hatch. It's eating away at the car's hatch and lifting the paint which is now flaking off.

Has anyone else had this kind of problem and what did you do about it?

The car's warranty has already expired due to mileage but I figure there's no way the paint on a car should be a problem after only a few years.

Thanks.

James

There've been cases of paint failure on the aluminum wheels, but this is the first I've heard of the problem you report. Check ALLDATA and with a Mazda dealer for any possible TSBs. If there's a bulletin on it, it may be repairable under warranty even though the regular warranty has expired. In any event, contact Mazda Corporate and explain things to them. It may be possible to get it fixed as a customer goodwill gesture. Good luck.

I have a huge rust problem with my 2002 protege 5. I took it to the dealer and they said there was nothing they could do and it was still within the warranty period. I have rust in all the wheel wells, around the logo on the hatch and above some of the windows. I am now looking to get a new car and I will never get a mazda again!