Target Audience:
DIY car owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional mechanics needing detailed technical data.
Value Proposition:
Provides access to the same level of information as official dealer service manuals, enabling significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance.
Completeness:
Complete service and workshop manual, covering all aspects of the vehicle's systems and maintenance.
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions with diagrams designed for ease of understanding and execution, suitable for various skill levels.
Accessibility:
Digital PDF format allows for easy storage, access, and selective printing.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of all engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and component testing.
Injection Ignition System:
In-depth information on fuel injection and ignition systems, including component testing, troubleshooting, and diagnostic procedures.
Clutch:
Complete procedures for clutch inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
Gearbox:
Detailed service and repair information for both manual and automatic transmissions, including internal components and diagnostics.
Suspension System:
Coverage of front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, and troubleshooting.
Wheels And Tires:
Information on wheel and tire specifications, rotation, and balance.
Braking System:
Comprehensive details on hydraulic and mechanical brake systems, including ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, and fluid replacement.
Steering System:
Information on power steering systems, steering gear, and linkages.
Air Temperature Control System:
Service and troubleshooting for the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic procedures for various circuits.
Bodywork:
Details on body panel repair, door mechanisms, and interior trim.
Maintenance:
All routine maintenance procedures, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing engine performance, electrical faults, and other system-related problems.
Rebuilding:
In-depth instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Diagrams:
Includes detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, and electrical schematics.
Engine Displacement And Type:
Typically offered with 1.5L (B5) and 1.8L (BP) inline-4 engines. Manual likely covers both, but specifics would be within.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-122 hp depending on engine and market. Specific figures within the manual.
Torque Range:
Approximately 95-120 lb-ft depending on engine and market. Specific figures within the manual.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all 1996 models.
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system, with specific coil and spark plug information detailed.
ECU Details:
Coverage of ECU (Engine Control Unit) functions and diagnostic codes (OBD-I for this year).
Transmission Options:
Likely offered with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard on many trims.
Transmission Options:
An optional 4-speed automatic transmission was typically available.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type will be detailed, e.g., Mazda ATF JWS 3314 or equivalent.
Clutch Fluid:
Hydraulic clutch system, requiring DOT 3 brake fluid.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact intervals and oil types.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For BP engines, timing belt replacement is critical, typically around 60,000-90,000 miles. Manual will provide the exact interval.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher. Specific viscosity grade will depend on ambient temperature. Manual will detail.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise, a common issue on older vehicles.
Rust And Corrosion:
Depending on climate, rust in wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes can be an issue. Manual provides care instructions.
Power Steering Leaks:
Hoses and seals in the power steering system can degrade over time.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
Summary:
Includes recommendations for spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, PCV valve, and more at various mileage intervals.
Model Reputation:
The Protege was generally well-regarded for its value, reliability, and sporty handling in its class.
Consumer Reports Historical:
Historically, Protege models often scored well in consumer satisfaction and reliability reports for their segment, though specific year data is needed.
