The contact owns a 2002 Mazda Protege 5. the contact smelled a strong odor of gasoline coming from her vehicle. She took the vehicle to a local repair shop and was informed that the retaining bracket in the fuel tank was corroded. The corrosion punctured holes in the sending unit and caused fuel leakage. The contact is in the process of having the vehicle repaired. She filed a complaint with the manufacturer. The failure and current mileages were 62,502 updated 08/04/09. Updated 08/06/09.

- Ann Arbor, MI, USA

2002 Mazda Protege I bought new. Now about 64,000 miles. Never been wrecked. In 09/07 I started to smell gas. My mechanic said it was a defective gas tank. Since the defect was most likely a problem w/ the manufacturing of the vehicle, it was suggested I get in touch with the dealer & Mazda to let them know & discuss possible solutions. I spoke with a rep at the dealership twice & he was extremely disrespectful. He did not offer to help in any manner & showed no concern for my safety or the safety of the car. He refused to even look at it. He repeatedly told me it was too old. I requested that a Mazda rep look at the vehicle to which he said he would call them. He called me back saying that he spoke with Mazda & they too said they would do nothing. I spoke with Mazda twice on the phone. Again they offered no help nor any concern for my safety or the safety of the vehicle. She stated that there were no recalls, no lemon law, and that the vehicle was simply too old to do anything. Again, I requested that a rep please look at the vehicle & again they refused saything there was nothing they could do. I am currently scheduled to get the gas tank, fuel pump, etc. Replaced later this week as the vehicle is unsafe to drive. I have done regular maintenance since I bought the vehicle (I.e. tune ups, oil changes, brakes, tires, etc.). through no fault of my own, I am now responsible for replacing the gas tank. I am extremely upset with Mazda & their lack of concern, their awful customer service, and their general disregard for my safety & the safety of the vehicle. It is my belief that the problem with the gas tank is a manufacturer's defect & that they should have taken some responsibility and/or own up to it and at least have a qualified Mazda professional look at the car to provide an explanation. I will never purchase a Mazda again. I want to make others aware of how Mazda treated me & that there could be a real safety concern with the manufacturing of their vehicles.

- Worthington, OH, USA