Segment:
Compact Car / Economy Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, commuters, students
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, Fuel Efficiency, Affordable Maintenance, Practicality
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed information for maintaining and repairing their 1996 Mazda Protege.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head, Block, Pistons, Crankshaft, Camshaft, Valvetrain
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection System (MPI), Ignition System, Emissions Control System, ECU Diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, Gearbox Overhaul, Shift Linkage, Bearings, Seals
Transmission Automatic:
Torque Converter, Valve Body, Planetary Gears, Hydraulic Control, Overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive Axles, CV Joints, Differential
Suspension:
Front Struts, Rear Shock Absorbers, Control Arms, Bushings, Springs, Anti-Roll Bars
Steering:
Power Steering System, Rack and Pinion, Steering Column, Pump, Hoses
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System (if equipped), Parking Brake, Hydraulic System, Master Cylinder, Calipers
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter), Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Codes, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flushes, Brake Fluid Replacement
Repair Procedures:
Component Removal and Installation, Adjustments, Calibration
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Fault Diagnosis for all major systems, Symptoms and Causes
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Control:
Electronically Controlled
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check Manual for Specifics)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF J (or equivalent Dexron III)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (CRITICAL component)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for better performance)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US Quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (Mazda Genuine or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity Est:
6.3 US Quarts (6.0 Liters)
Engine:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced), minor oil leaks, thermostat issues
Suspension:
Worn sway bar links, control arm bushings, strut mounts
Electrical:
Alternator failure, intermittent power window issues
Exhaust:
Corrosion on exhaust components
Mazda Philosophy:
Zoom-Zoom (though not yet formalized, emphasis on driving dynamics)
Generation:
Second Generation (1990-1998 in some markets, 1995-1998 for this specific refresh)
Design Updates:
Refreshed styling for 1995 with updated bumpers, grille, headlights, and taillights.
Production Years Global:
1990-1999
Manufacturing Location Primary:
Japan
