Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mazda Protege owners seeking in-depth repair information
Value Proposition:
Offers factory-level technical data and procedures, enabling significant cost savings on repairs compared to dealership service.
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions designed for ease of understanding, suitable for various skill levels.
Completeness:
Highly detailed compilation, often considered the definitive resource for this vehicle generation.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission controls, engine mechanicals
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual gearbox, automatic transmission (if applicable and covered), driveshafts, differentials
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, disc brakes, drum brakes, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, accessories, body electronics, diagnostic connectors
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, seals, structural components
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater system, ventilation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, automatic transmission service (if applicable)
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel alignment specifications
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake fluid bleeding
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair
Bodywork Procedures:
Panel alignment, dent repair guidance, glass replacement
Depth:
Complete, covering from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics
Diagrams:
Detailed step-by-step illustrations, exploded view diagrams, wiring schematics
Data Included:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, technical data tables, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable
Engine Family:
Mazda B-series (e.g., B3, BP)
Common Displacements:
1.5L (B3), 1.8L (BP), 2.0L (FS - later models, potentially covered in '98 depending on market)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90-120 hp (depending on engine and market)
Torque Range:
Approx. 95-130 lb-ft (depending on engine and market)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-port injection
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition system (depending on specific engine variant)
Timing Mechanism:
Timing belt (most common for B3 and BP engines)
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA ratings vary by year and specific test; generally competitive for its class during its production run. Manual will detail specific test results if available.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (standard); Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most models in later years of this range)
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners for front belts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial interval, often around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years for the BP engine. Critical for engine longevity as it is an interference engine.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature; check manual for exact range).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (green type) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil consumption on higher mileage BP engines, timing belt failure leading to engine damage (if not replaced on schedule).
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, strut/shock absorber wear.
Electrical:
Faulty power window motors, issues with door lock actuators, alternator failures.
Bodywork:
Rust, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels, depending on climate and care.