Target Audience:
Value-conscious consumers, commuters, young drivers.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra.
Design Philosophy:
Jinba-Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving dynamics.
Trim Levels:
Typically includes DX, ES, and MP3 trims.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging systems, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (M5) overhaul, clutch, gear shift mechanism.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (FS5A-EL) overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, differentials, drive shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, springs, bushings.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Body Electrical:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuses, relays.
Instrumentation Gauges:
Instrument cluster, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body Panels:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass replacement.
Interior Trim:
Dashboard, door panels, seating systems, headliner.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for various repairs.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail; suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine, transmission, ABS, and other systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Engine Type 1:
2.0L Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve
Horsepower 1:
130 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1:
135 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Engine Code 2:
FP-DE (less common in North America for 2005)
Engine Type 2:
1.6L Inline-4 SOHC 16-valve
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Extended Life Antifreeze (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters).
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed manual transmission (M5)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed automatic transmission (FS5A-EL)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-MV (Type M-V) or equivalent.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★★
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★★
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
Anti Lock Braking System:
Available ABS on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with NGK Iridium plugs (PFR5A-11).
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial: 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 2 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A or higher, SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Intake manifold gaskets can develop leaks (vacuum leaks).
Common Issue 2:
Exhaust manifold cracks can occur.
Common Issue 3:
Automatic transmission shift solenoid issues leading to harsh shifting or limp mode.
Common Issue 4:
Power steering pump whine or leaks.
Common Issue 5:
Rust development in wheel wells and rocker panels, especially in rust-belt regions.
Mazda Philosophy:
Focus on driving enjoyment and innovative engineering.
Protege Generation:
Third generation (2001-2003), facelifted for 2004-2005.
Facelift Details:
Revised front and rear styling, updated interior features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Mazda's main production), Mexico (for North American market).
Production Years:
1990-2003 (global), 2001-2003 (North America), with the 2005 model year representing the final iteration of the BJ generation.