Market Segment:
Compact sedan and hatchback, competing with vehicles like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus.
Key Strengths Of Protege:
Sporty handling (especially Mazdaspeed variants), good value proposition, reliable engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-grade repair information, enabling owners to perform extensive maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing.
Manual Completeness Claim:
Advertised as a complete service repair manual, equivalent to factory workshop manuals, offering comprehensive coverage.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system, lubrication, cooling system.
Engine Control:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and programming.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear selection.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, shift control, hydraulic system.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, frame, rust prevention.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS control unit.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Component Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, repairing, and reassembling all major mechanical and electrical components.
Electrical Component Replacement:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, and replacement procedures for sensors, actuators, control modules, and accessories.
Suspension Steering Alignment:
Component replacement, adjustment procedures, and detailed alignment specifications.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS component replacement.
HVAC System Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement, leak detection, system evacuation and recharging.
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, door hinge and lock repair, glass replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostics Level:
In-depth diagnostic strategies, including the use of scan tools and oscilloscopes.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical system schematics, and diagnostic data.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace at every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Standard plugs: 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2.5 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or ILSAC GF-4 certified 5W-30 (or 5W-20 if specified for extreme cold).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change for 2.0L engine.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-J / ATF-III (Mercon compatible).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant).
Ignition Coil Packs:
Premature failure of coil packs can lead to misfires.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, especially if engine is burning oil.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises and poor handling.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional leaks or noisy operation.
Transmission Clutches Automatic:
Wear on clutch packs in the automatic transmission can lead to slipping or delayed shifts.