🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Model Years:

2002-2003

Chassis Codes:

BJ (global platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda Protege of the 2002-2003 model years was positioned as a compact car, competing in a segment known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It aimed to provide a balance of sporty styling and everyday usability, appealing to a broad range of buyers.

Competitive Analysis:

Key competitors included the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, and Chevrolet Cavalier. The Protege differentiated itself with Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, often praised for its handling and responsive steering, particularly in sportier trims like the 'MazdaSpeed Protege'.

Key Features:

Available in sedan and hatchback (5-door) body styles. Offered a range of fuel-efficient engines. Known for its engaging driving experience, comfortable interior for its class, and reliable performance. Sporty variants offered enhanced suspension and engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All diagnostic and repair procedures, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration

Page Count:

Digital, extensive content

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Manual

Completeness:

Comprehensive workshop manual, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance, not a condensed service guide.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar accessible format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, timing, lubrication, cooling), fuel system (injection, sensors, fuel pump), ignition system (coils, spark plugs, timing), emissions control (catalytic converter, EGR, PCV), starting and charging system (alternator, starter, battery)

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (MT), Automatic transmission (AT), clutch system, driveshafts, axles, differentials, torque converter

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms), power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, column), wheel alignment specifications

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum configurations), ABS system (sensors, control module), hydraulic components (master cylinder, calipers, lines), parking brake

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), ECU/PCM diagnosis and repair, fuse box locations and functions, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system wiring

HVAC Climate Control:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, R134a), heating system (heater core, blower motor), climate control module, HVAC controls, cabin air filter replacement

Body Interior:

Exterior body panels (doors, hood, trunk, fenders), interior trim, seats, airbags, body sealing, glass replacement, door hardware, bumpers

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement), diagnostic procedures (troubleshooting flowcharts, fault code interpretation), repair procedures (component replacement, system adjustments), rebuilding procedures (engine, transmission, suspension components), refurbishment (interior, exterior detailing, rust repair guidance), restoration (period-correct parts identification, fabrication guidance)

Diagnostic Procedures:

Includes detailed troubleshooting guides, fault code definitions (OBD-I and OBD-II), wiring diagrams for electrical system diagnosis, and step-by-step diagnostic routines for various components and systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting for all major systems.

Repair Procedures:

Covers component replacement, repair, and adjustment for all major mechanical and electrical systems, including torque specifications, special tool requirements, and alignment procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (PDF recommended for searchability and printability)

Searchability:

Digital format (PDF) typically offers full text searchability for quick access to specific topics.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 2002:

FS-DE 2.0L DOHC 16-valve inline-4

Primary Engine 2003:

FS-DE 2.0L DOHC 16-valve inline-4

Horsepower 2002:

125-130 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on trim and specific variant)

Torque 2002:

135-140 lb-ft @ 4300-4500 rpm

Horsepower 2003 Standard:

130 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2003 Standard:

135 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Engine Mazdaspeed Protege 2003:

FS-DET 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged inline-4

Horsepower Mazdaspeed Protege 2003:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Mazdaspeed Protege 2003:

170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), MPI (Multi-Point Injection)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Codes:

FS-DE (Naturally Aspirated), FS-DET (Turbocharged - MazdaSpeed)

Engine Features:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) design for efficient valve operation. Electronic ignition and fuel injection for optimal combustion and emissions control. Timing belt driven (non-interference engine on some variants, interference on others - critical to verify for maintenance).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 2002 2003:

5-speed Manual Transmission (FS-DE engines)

Optional Transmission 2002 2003:

4-speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive (FS-DE engines)

Mazdaspeed Transmission 2003:

5-speed Manual Transmission (FS-DET engine)

Transmission Features:

Sport-shift automatic available on some trims. Manual transmissions known for crisp engagement.

Transmission Codes Manual:

F5M33 (typical 5-speed manual)

Transmission Codes Automatic:

43LE (typical 4-speed automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)

Length:

Approx. 174.9 inches (4443 mm) for sedan, 169.1 inches (4300 mm) for hatchback

Width:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) for sedan, 56.5 inches (1435 mm) for hatchback

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 2650 lbs (1202 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 2950 lbs (1338 kg) for standard models, ~2900 lbs (1315 kg) for MazdaSpeed

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 11.6 cubic feet (328 liters)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 19.8 cubic feet (561 liters) with rear seats up

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

15 inches

Standard Tire Size:

P195/55R15 (common for base models), P205/50R16 on sportier trims.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver 2002:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger 2002:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

IIHS Front Offset Small Overlap Rating 2002:

Acceptable (Industry standard at the time)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most trims, Traction Control System (TCS) - optional on some, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) - on ABS-equipped models

ABS System Type:

Bosch or Teves ABS system, typically 4-channel, 3-sensor system.

Passive Features:

Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player (optional), cassette player. Basic climate controls. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, optional Traction Control System (TCS). No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were available.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Typically featured auxiliary input for external devices on later units or aftermarket head units. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium or platinum-tipped plugs, check manual for specific type and interval.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years thereafter. Use Mazda FL22 coolant or equivalent.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 API Service SM or ILSAC GF-4 (check manual for exact specification for your climate and engine type). Capacity approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.4 quarts (2.3 L).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda ATF J or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon compatible). Capacity approx. 3.3 quarts (3.1 L) for initial fill, higher for complete flush.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Ensure manufacturer's specified brake fluid is used.

Known Issues Engine:

Occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, spark plug blow-out on some early models (check for updated torque specs), timing belt replacement interval critical (typically 90,000 miles), occasional oil consumption on high-mileage engines.

Known Issues Transmission:

Automatic transmission shifting issues or 'slipping' can occur with age/mileage if fluid is not maintained. Manual clutch wear is normal, but clutch release bearing noise is also possible.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn front struts and rear shocks, worn control arm bushings, and tie rod ends are common wear items, especially with higher mileage.

Known Issues Electrical:

Alternator failure, power window motor failure, and occasional SRS (airbag) warning light issues are noted.

Engine Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.6 quarts (6.2 L) for 2.0L engine. Use Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda, a Japanese automaker, has a history dating back to 1920. It is known for its engineering prowess, distinctive styling, and focus on driving enjoyment, encapsulated by its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy.

Model Evolution:

The Protege (also known as Familia in some markets) was a key model in Mazda's lineup for many years. The 2002-2003 models represent the third generation (BJ platform), which saw significant improvements in styling, refinement, and performance over its predecessors. The 'MazdaSpeed Protege' variant, introduced in 2003, marked Mazda's entry into the tuner-friendly performance compact segment.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and Mexico.

Production Years:

Protege line: 1990-2003 (North America), longer in other markets. BJ generation: 1998-2003.

Model Trim Levels:

DX, ES, LX, MP3, Protege5 (hatchback), MazdaSpeed Protege. Each offered varying levels of features, comfort, and performance.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mazda Protege line consistently received positive reviews for its value, fuel efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics. It was a popular choice in its segment.

Ratings Fuel Economy Standard Engine:

EPA estimates varied by transmission and body style, generally in the range of 24-28 MPG city and 30-35 MPG highway.

Certifications:

Various safety certifications from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS. Certified by emissions standards of the time.