🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Year:

2001

Body Style:

Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door)

Chassis Code:

BJ (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2001 Mazda Protege was positioned as a value-oriented compact car, offering a blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling, often competing against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus.

Competitive Analysis:

The Protege, particularly in its second generation (BJ), was praised for its responsive chassis and available sport-oriented trims (ES, GT), providing a more engaging driving experience than many of its mainstream competitors. Its practicality and build quality also contributed to its strong showing.

Key Features:

Available in sedan and hatchback body styles, offering versatile cargo space. Multiple engine options provided varying levels of performance and fuel economy. Known for its sharp handling and driver-focused interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all systems of the 2001 Mazda Protege.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for a factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Content Type:

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) style service manual.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

General Information, Engine Mechanical, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Steering System, Braking System, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical System, Heater and Air Conditioner Systems.

Body Electrical System:

Covers interior/exterior lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wipers, horn, audio system wiring, and immobilizer systems (if applicable).

Heater And Air Conditioner:

Detailed information on refrigerant system service, A/C compressor operation, blower motor, HVAC control panel diagnostics, and heater core procedures.

Procedures:

Maintenance schedules, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, repair and overhaul procedures, component removal and installation, wiring diagrams, specifications, torque values, and adjustments.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including engine performance, transmission operation, ABS, HVAC, and body electrical faults.

Depth:

In-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Technical Data Inclusion:

Includes detailed technical specifications, torque values, tightening sequences, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, fuse locations, and fluid capacities.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages with clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Compatibility:

Compatible with WINDOWS and MAC operating systems.

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader required for viewing.

Searchable Text:

Yes (PDF is typically text-searchable, allowing for quick access to specific topics).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (FS-DE)

Engine 2:

1.6L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (Z5-DE)

Horsepower Fsde:

Approx. 120-130 hp (depending on market and specific trim)

Torque Fsde:

Approx. 125-135 lb-ft (depending on market and specific trim)

Horsepower Z5De:

Approx. 100-110 hp

Torque Z5De:

Approx. 100-110 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Point Injection (MPI).

Engine Layout:

Front-engine, Transverse

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transaxle.

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transaxle.

Transmission Features:

Both manual and automatic transmissions were available, with the manual often preferred for its sporty feel. The manual transaxle is known for its durability.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm) for sedan, 164.0 inches (4165 mm) for hatchback

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm) for sedan, 55.1 inches (1400 mm) for hatchback

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:

4 Stars (1999-2003 models generally received good ratings)

NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:

4 Stars (1999-2003 models generally received good ratings)

Active Safety:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some higher trims).

Passive Safety:

Dual front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, side-impact door beams, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Higher trims could have upgraded audio systems with more speakers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards, primarily focused on safety features like ABS and airbags. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.

Connectivity Features:

Basic connectivity primarily through the audio system. Some models may have offered power windows, power locks, and remote keyless entry.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to the manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Interval:

The 2.0L FS-DE engine uses a timing belt, typically recommended for replacement every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km). Crucial to follow the manual's guidance.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH/SJ certified, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity grade recommended. Check manual for specific ambient temperature ranges.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Mazda Long Life Coolant (FL22) may be specified for later models, but for 2001, a quality conventional green or blue coolant is usually acceptable. Refer to manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF JWS 3317 or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 gear oil.

Common Issues Engine:

Variable valve timing (VVT) on some 2.0L engines can be sensitive to oil quality; occasional oil consumption on higher mileage units; potential for cracked exhaust manifolds on some models.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn front control arm bushings and sway bar links are common wear items leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulators can fail; occasional issues with door lock actuators; power antenna motors may seize.

Common Issues Other:

Rear wheel bearings can be prone to wear; corrosion on the rear quarter panels and rocker panels can occur in rust-prone areas.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles, often known for their 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics and innovative rotary engine technology, though the Protege utilized conventional piston engines.

Model Evolution:

The 2001 model year represents the second generation (BJ) of the Mazda Protege, which debuted in 1998. This generation was a significant improvement over its predecessor, featuring a more rigid chassis, improved styling, and a wider range of powertrain options.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and North America (e.g., Mazda's Flat Rock, Michigan plant for North American models).

Production Years Bj Generation:

1998-2003

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Mazda Protege was recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list for its value and sporty driving characteristics in some of its earlier generations, and the BJ chassis continued this reputation for good handling.

Konsumen Reports Reliability:

Generally received average to above-average reliability ratings from consumer organizations for this generation, with some specific areas noted for potential improvement.