Market Position:
The 1996 Mazda Protege was a compact car positioned as an affordable, reliable, and fun-to-drive option in a highly competitive segment, often competing with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Nissan Sentra. It offered a blend of practicality and a touch of sportiness, particularly in higher trim levels.
Competitive Analysis:
The Protege of this era was known for its independent rear suspension, which contributed to better handling than some competitors. Its introduction marked a period of increasing quality and refinement for Mazda.
Key Features:
Fuel-efficient engines, engaging driving dynamics, practical interior, available in sedan and hatchback body styles.
Coverage Areas:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel & Emissions, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body Electrical, Body & Frame, HVAC, SRS Airbag System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Page Count:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch Assembly, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Drive Axles, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Accessories), Body Control Modules, HVAC System, Restraint Systems (SRS Airbags), Chassis Components
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Component Removal & Installation, Disassembly & Assembly, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair Instructions, Specifications & Tolerances, Torque Values, Wiring Diagrams, Vacuum Diagrams, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) - potentially, Overhaul procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair.
Primary Engine Option:
1.5L DOHC 4-cylinder (Z5-DE)
1.5L Horsepower:
Approx. 105 hp @ 6000 rpm
1.5L Torque:
Approx. 100 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
1.8L DOHc Engine Option:
1.8L DOHC 4-cylinder (BP-ZE)
1.8L DOHc Horsepower:
Approx. 122 hp @ 6000 rpm
1.8L DOHc Torque:
Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 qts (with filter, check manual for exact)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (check manual for specific climate/region)
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 5.0 - 5.5 qts (with heater, check manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (e.g., G5M-P)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., FS5A-EL)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Lock-up torque converter
Manual Transaxle Fluid Type:
GL-4 Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transaxle Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-III or equivalent Dexron-III compatible fluid
Wheelbase Inches:
Approx. 103.0 inches
Length Inches:
Approx. 170.1 - 174.6 inches (sedan/hatchback)
Width Inches:
Approx. 67.1 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 55.1 - 55.3 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 2500 - 2700 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
Varies by model and configuration, check vehicle placard.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating:
Not readily available for 1996 models, likely 3 or 4 star depending on testing protocols of the era.
Active Safety Features:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (some models may have rear discs), Power Assisted Steering.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual Front Airbags (SRS), Front Seatbelt Pretensioners, Side-impact door beams, Crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo system, optional CD player. Manual power windows and door locks standard on lower trims, power accessories available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an optional feature on some models.
Connectivity Options:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity in this era).
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first, check manual)
Engine Coolant Flush Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (check manual)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:
Manual: 60,000-100,000 miles; Automatic: 30,000-50,000 miles (check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:
60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., platinum)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III ATF
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, occasional coolant leaks from hoses or radiator, spark plug blowouts (less common on this generation).
Common Issues Transmission:
Wear in manual synchros (especially 2nd gear), automatic transmission solenoid issues or torque converter shudder.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to age and mileage. Strut and shock absorber wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded grounds, faulty power window motors, head unit failures, SRS warning light may illuminate due to faulty clock spring.
Fuel Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda OEM: FE01-13-ZE1 (example, verify with VIN)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda OEM: B6Y1-14-302 (example, verify with VIN)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda OEM: BP4W-13-215 (example, verify with VIN)
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker, has a long history of producing innovative and driver-focused vehicles, often emphasizing 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics.
Model Evolution 1996:
The 1996 model year represents the second generation (BJ) of the Mazda Protege, which debuted in late 1994 for the 1995 model year. This generation introduced a sleeker design and improved mechanicals over its predecessor.
Production Locations:
Japan
Production Years Generation:
1994-1998 (for the BJ generation)
