Segment:
Compact car, known for its affordability, sporty handling, and reliability. Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Nissan Sentra.
Strengths:
Praised for engaging driving dynamics, particularly in sportier trims (like the Protege5 and Mazdaspeed Protege), practical interior, and generally good fuel economy. Often considered a driver's choice in its segment.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering owners to maintain their vehicles effectively, troubleshoot issues, and potentially save on repair costs. Essential for those seeking in-depth technical understanding.
Vehicle Appeal:
The 1999-2003 generation (BJ chassis) offered a range of powertrains and body styles, including sedans, hatchbacks, and the popular Protege5 wagon, making it versatile for different needs.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both manual (MT) and automatic (AT) transmissions, including overhaul, clutch service, fluid changes, and electronic controls.
Brakes:
ABS, disc brake systems (front and rear), drum brake systems (rear on some models), parking brake, hydraulic systems, and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear/rack and pinion overhaul, alignment specifications, and steering column.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson struts, multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), and fuses/relays.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, service, refrigerant handling, climate control systems, heater core, and blower motor.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, interior trim, and basic sheet metal repair.
Safety:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and safety precautions, seat belts, and basic structural information.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups, and inspections.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and brake system repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex problems.
Installation:
Procedures for installing replacement parts, accessories, and performing upgrades.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data for all components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Code Common:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC I4)
Displacement Common:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke Common:
83.1 mm x 92.0 mm
Compression Ratio Common:
9.5:1 (FS-DE)
Horsepower Common:
130 hp @ 6000 rpm (FS-DE)
Torque Common:
135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (FS-DE)
Other Engines:
Z5-DE (1.5L SOHC I4), YM (1.8L DOHC I4, often in non-US markets), FS-ZE (2.0L DOHC I4, performance variant for Mazdaspeed Protege, ~170 hp).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), sequential multi-port injection.
Fuel Pressure Spec:
Refer to manual for specific PSI (typically 35-45 PSI for this era).
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Length Sedan:
Approx. 175.8 inches (4465 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm) for sedan, higher for Protege5 wagon.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 185/65R14, 195/55R15, 205/40R17 (Mazdaspeed).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600-2900 lbs (1180-1315 kg), varies by trim and body style.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Good (for models with side airbags and pretensioners, refer to specific year/model testing).
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Acceptable to Good (depending on equipment).
ABS:
Available, typically on higher trims or as an option.
Traction Control:
Rarely standard, available on select higher-trim models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on select models.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners. Rear 3-point seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs (check spec for specific plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 is common. Check manual for exact recommendation based on climate.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, compatible with Mazda's specifications (typically a green or gold color).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracking can occur on some FS-DE engines, leading to exhaust leaks.
Automatic Transmission:
Some models may experience delayed shifting or harsh engagement, often related to fluid condition or solenoid issues.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop a humming noise and require replacement.
Ac Compressor:
Clutch wear or leaks can affect AC performance.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's long history of producing engaging and affordable vehicles, often with a focus on driving dynamics (Jinba Ittai - horse and rider as one).
Protege Lineage:
The Protege series has a lineage dating back to the 1970s, evolving from compact to subcompact roles, with the BJ generation being the third major iteration for the North American market.
Production Years:
1998-2003 (for the BJ generation covered by this manual).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Hofu Plant) and Mexico (Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation, for certain markets).
Key Variants:
Protege (DX, LX, ES), Protege5 (wagon), Mazdaspeed Protege (performance variant).
