🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protegé

Year:

2002

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda Protegé (2002) occupied the highly competitive compact sedan and hatchback segment, known for its sporty handling and value proposition.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Nissan Sentra. The Protegé was often praised for its driving dynamics compared to some rivals.

Key Features:

Affordable pricing, engaging handling characteristics, available performance variants (e.g., Mazdaspeed Protegé), and a reliable powertrain.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America

Page Count:

Extensive (typical factory manual range: 1500-3000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Complete Service Repair Manual (Factory Workshop Manual equivalent)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all available engine variants (e.g., 1.6L, 2.0L)

Transmission:

Detailed repair, adjustment, and overhaul for both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque converters and clutch assemblies.

Brakes:

Inspection, repair, and service for ABS, hydraulic systems, brake calipers, rotors, pads, and lines.

Suspension Steering:

Diagnosis and repair of struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering systems, and wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, and accessory circuits.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure testing, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system diagnosis.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan operation, coolant specifications and bleeding procedures.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emission control components.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, climate control operation.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, and structural information.

Interior:

Seat adjustment, trim panel removal, dashboard components, and interior lighting.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, tire rotation, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common symptom analysis, intermittent fault finding.

Repair:

Step-by-step guides for component replacement, adjustments, and reassembly for all major systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code interpretation, sensor testing, and module diagnosis.

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical troubleshooting, and HVAC system repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scanned images of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

1.6L DOHC I4 (Z5-DE/B6), 2.0L DOHC I4 (FS-DE/FS-ZY)

1.6L Horsepower:

Approx. 105 hp @ 6000 rpm

1.6L Torque:

Approx. 105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

2.0L Horsepower:

Approx. 130 hp @ 6000 rpm (FS-DE)

2.0L Torque:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (FS-DE)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Engine Codes 1.6L:

Z5-DE, B6

Engine Codes 2.0L:

FS-DE, FS-ZY (JDM)

Engine Codes Mazdaspeed:

FS-DET (Turbocharged)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron III/Mercon (Automatic), GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Manual)

Gear Ratios Manual:

Varies by engine and trim, detailed in manual.

Gear Ratios Automatic:

Varies by model, detailed in manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170-173 inches (4318-4394 mm) depending on body style (Sedan/Hatchback)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.8-56.5 inches (1417-1435 mm) depending on body style

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2500-2800 lbs (1134-1270 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Detailed in manual, typically around 3500-3700 lbs

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11-12 cu ft (Sedan), Varies for Hatchback

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (2002 models tested)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (2002 models tested)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable/Good depending on specific equipment and testing year.

Active Safety Features:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some higher trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, available side airbags on some trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, and premium speaker systems on higher trims. Basic climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by 2002 standards. Features like cruise control are common. ABS and TCS available on select models.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. (Refer to manual for precise intervals).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed, based on driving environment. (Refer to manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium). (Refer to manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for 2.0L FS-DE/FS-ZY engines (non-interference). Recommended interval is typically 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause significant engine damage. (Refer to manual for exact mileage).

Engine Oil Spec:

API Service SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-20 recommended (Refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Mazda specifies specific coolant types; consult manual for P/N. (Often green color).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Issues Engine:

Occasional coolant leaks from hoses/thermostat housing, oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, potential for PCV valve clogging leading to rough idle.

Common Issues Transmission:

Automatic transmission might exhibit delayed engagement or shifting issues if fluid is neglected. Manual clutch wear is normal over time.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn strut mounts, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to knocking noises and alignment issues.

Common Issues Electrical:

Power window motor failures, interior light issues, and alternator problems can occur with age.

Common Issues Body:

Rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms. Paint fade/peeling on plastic bumpers is also noted.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles, often with a reputation for sporty handling and innovative design.

Model Evolution General:

The Protegé was part of Mazda's global compact car strategy, evolving through several generations. The 2002 model represents the third generation (BJ platform) which saw significant updates in styling, safety, and performance.

Model Evolution Key Changes 2002:

Revised styling, improved interior appointments, introduction of the sporty Mazdaspeed Protegé model with a turbocharged engine.

Production Years:

1990-2003 (Globally, replaced by Mazda3)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan (Hoffman Auto Group, Hiroshima) and North America (AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The Protegé, particularly the later models and the Mazdaspeed variant, received positive reviews from automotive journalists for its handling and value. Often cited as a competent and engaging choice in its class.

Reliability Ratings:

Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, though specific components might require attention as mileage increases.