Positioning:
Practical, reliable, and engaging-to-drive compact sedan and hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Lancer
Driving Dynamics:
Praised for responsive handling and sporty feel, a Mazda hallmark
Reliability:
Generally good reliability, appealing to budget-conscious buyers
Value Proposition:
Offered a strong balance of features, performance, and affordability
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, timing components, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, fluid service, clutch replacement
Drivetrain:
Axles, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (if equipped), brake fluid, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, chassis repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system repair and recharge procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues
Engine Code:
FS-DE (for most common models)
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4, DOHC, 16 Valves
Displacement:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
125-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (approximate, depending on specific market/tune)
Torque:
135-140 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (approximate, depending on specific market/tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 89 for optimal performance)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or coil packs
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios per gear and final drive
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF JWS 3317 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm)
Length:
Approx. 170.5 - 173.2 inches (4331 - 4399 mm) (Sedan/Hatchback)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 - 56.1 inches (1400 - 1425 mm) (Sedan/Hatchback)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600 - 2900 lbs (1180 - 1315 kg) (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate or manual
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for 1997 models with dual front airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 1997 models with dual front airbags)
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Rarely equipped, consult specific vehicle options
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on most US models for '97)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine:
Occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, oil consumption on high-mileage engines
Transmission:
Automatic transmission shifting issues (rare), clutch wear on manual transmissions
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts
Electrical:
Alternator failure (common on many vehicles of this era), power window regulator issues
Body Rust:
Can be susceptible to rust in areas with harsh winters (rocker panels, wheel wells)
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - emphasis on driving feel
Generation Start:
Third Generation Protege (1997-2003)
Platform Sharing:
Shared the BJ platform with the Ford Escort (North America) and Mazda Familia (Japan)
Assembly Locations:
Japan (Mazda plants), Mexico (Ford/Mazda joint venture plants for North American market)
