Does the instrumentation drive you nuts?
 

Hi, i've had a Protege ES for 9 years and am now thinking of the 3s sedan as a replacement. I like the 3 a lot except that i HATE its gauges, esp. the speedo & odo. To me they look ugly and are hard to read in every way. Do any owners agree/disagree? For those that agreed, did you eventually get used to them? Are there any aftermarket replacements available?

Also, is it just me, or is the gas pedal too close to the wall on the right? Seems like your foot has to rub up against it all the time. Is that a problem for anyone?

Thanks in advance...

I really enjoy the gauges. In fact it is one of the most attractive interior features as far as I am concerned. I get tons of compliments on them whenever I have passengers.

I like the looks of the gauges but being a tall person, I have a hard time seeing the tach & odom. Perhaps, it's my hand position on the steering wheel or my seat position.

I'm not sure if I'll get use to it or damn it for all eternity...

i didn't like the gauges either at first, now i like em just fine, and i do get a lot of comments from people about em especially at night with the blue back light and the red numbers.... i don't have a problem with rubbing my foot on the side though my knee hits the center console and thats kinda annoying....

I think they look awesome. My only complaint is that, when the sun shines in at just the right angle , it blanks out the red light and the gagues are unreadable. But other than that I think they're sweet. A definite nice change from the boring old Protege 5 gagues. I especially like how they're blank when the car is turned off.

I like the instruments. the pedals are too far to the right, but I got used to it (2,500 miles). My right leg is always pressed against the center console. It is different, but I'm ok with it. I think the brake pedal is too small (I have auto trans) as well. Usually with an auto the brake pedal is larger, but apparently they save a little money by just using the same pedal as the 5-sp. I went from driving full-size trucks for the last 15 years to the 3. If I can get used to it - anyone can.

The guages look different then the regular 2d like look of the other conventional cars out there. The 3 guages IMO look more 3D comming out at you with the diferent guage lights. I like the setup of them. It actually looks kind of like the Pontiac Grand AM guages. Then again thats just me, not everyone likes chocolate =P.

I am new the these forums. I've had my 3 for 8 months now and I am also tall 6'6" I love the gauges on the 3.. I have no problem with seeing any of the Gauges.

i love the gauges too. i too always get compliments on them...