🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Year Start:

1994

Year End:

1998

Generation Designation:

BJ (Second Generation)

Chassis Codes:

BJ3P, BJ5P, BJ8W

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car

Target Audience:

DIY Enthusiasts, Independent Repair Shops, Fleet Maintenance

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive factory-level repair information for a reliable and popular compact car, enabling cost-effective maintenance and repair.

Uniqueness:

Provides detailed factory procedures and specifications often unavailable in generic aftermarket manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (North America, Europe, Asia)

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2000 pages (estimated for full service manual)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Turbocharger (if applicable)

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differentials, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS included), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Windows/Locks, HVAC Controls, Audio System, SRS Airbag System, Engine Control Module (ECM) Wiring Diagrams

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-Ups, Fluid Checks & Replacements

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, OBD-II Code Explanations & Procedures

Repair:

Component Removal & Installation, Overhauls, Component Adjustments, Wiring Harness Repair, Body Panel Repair

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive; Covers basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, including complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-Resolution PDF, Searchable Text, Printable Pages

Print Readability:

Excellent print quality for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

FS-DE (2.0L DOHC)

Engine Code 2:

FP-DE (1.8L DOHC)

Engine Code 3:

YF-DE (1.5L SOHC - some markets)

Horsepower 2.0L:

~125-130 hp

Torque 2.0L:

~135-140 lb-ft

Horsepower 1.8L:

~118-122 hp

Torque 1.8L:

~118-120 lb-ft

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Automatic Features:

Electronically Controlled, Sport Mode (on some models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

~102.7 inches (2606 mm)

Length:

~170.5 inches (4330 mm)

Width:

~67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Height:

~55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

~2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg) depending on trim and powertrain

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4-star (for driver and passenger, based on contemporary standards for similar vehicles)

IIHS Side Impact:

Varies by year and specific testing protocols for the era.

ABS:

Available (standard on higher trims, optional on others)

Traction Control:

Rarely available on this generation.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (standard)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners on front seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system (introduced during this generation, check specific model year)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM/Cassette, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC system, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards; typically limited to power accessories and basic audio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (platinum recommended).

Engine Oil Type 2.0L:

SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH (check owner's manual for exact specification)

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, silicate-free)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent Dexron-III compatible fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket can degrade over time.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils and spark plug wires can fail prematurely.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts/shocks are common wear items.

Exhaust System:

Rusting exhaust components, particularly mufflers and pipes.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, hose degradation, and thermostat issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Focus on Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, affordability, and reliability.

Previous Generation:

First generation Mazda Protege (1989-1993)

Design Direction:

Smoother, more aerodynamic styling; improved interior space and comfort.

Production Location:

Hofu, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Protege often appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, particularly for its value and handling.

Consumer Reports:

Generally received good reliability ratings from Consumer Reports during its lifespan, though some specific model years or components might have had minor issues.

Emission Standards:

Designed to meet US EPA and California PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) standards, depending on the specific engine and year.