🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003

Market Segment:

Compact

Chassis Codes:

BJ (for most markets, including North America)

👋 Introduction

Segment Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.

Key Selling Points:

Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy; often praised for engaging driving dynamics, good reliability, and value for money in its segment.

Body Styles:

Typically available as a 4-door Sedan and 5-door Hatchback (Protege5 for later years).

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on common industry practice for such manuals)

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed, likely exceeding 1500 pages for comprehensive coverage

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Includes detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all engine variants offered during these years (e.g., 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L, SP20/ES models).

Transmission:

Coverage for both manual (M/T) and automatic (A/T) transmissions, including overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems (if applicable to specific models covered), including differential, axles, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson struts, multi-link rear), including component replacement, alignment procedures, and specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum configurations), including hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotor/pad replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnostics and repair, steering column components, and steering rack/gearbox.

Electrical:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, and troubleshooting for ECUs, sensors, actuators, lighting, and accessories.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling (with safety precautions), component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), and controls.

Body:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers, and basic body repair information.

Chassis:

Frame and chassis component inspection and repair.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, coolant flushes, and belt inspections/replacements.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic strategies and troubleshooting flowcharts for identifying and resolving various mechanical and electrical issues. Includes OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, engine timing, emissions control information, and electrical component resistance/voltage values.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, aiding technicians in pinpointing root causes.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for electrical diagnostics and repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complex engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and in-depth electrical system diagnostics.

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, experienced DIY enthusiasts, and technicians seeking factory-level repair information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, offering searchability and ease of navigation. Print-ready quality.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution graphics and diagrams for clear visual guidance.

Physical Manual Binding:

N/A (Digital format, but if printed, would typically be spiral-bound or case-bound for durability).

Physical Manual Paper:

N/A (Digital format, but factory manuals typically use high-quality paper for longevity).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

1.6L (e.g., ZM-DE engine)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 105-110 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 100-105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

1.8L (e.g., BP-ZE engine in some markets, FP-DE in others)

Engine 2 Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 120-125 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 115-120 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 Displacement:

2.0L (FS-DE engine for Protege ES, and BP-ZE for 'SP20' models)

Engine 3 Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (FS-DE, BP-ZE - often VVT-i equivalent on BP-ZE)

Engine 3 Power:

Approx. 125-130 hp (FS-DE) up to 140-150 hp (SP20/BP-ZE)

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 130-140 lb-ft (FS-DE) up to 135-145 lb-ft (SP20/BP-ZE)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - multi-point injection (MPI) is standard.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Direct Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-pack configurations.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (M/T)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (A/T), often with electronic control.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (for M/T).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (e.g., Mazda ATF J or equivalent for automatic transmissions); gear oil for manual transmissions (refer to manual for exact specs).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm)

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 172.0 inches (4369 mm); Hatchback: Approx. 164.4 inches (4176 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

Sedan: Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm); Hatchback: Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and trim, typically ranging from 2,500 to 2,900 lbs (1134 to 1315 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Good (for many models and years, but specific results vary; check NHTSA for exact vehicle).

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable to Good (depending on specific year and testing methodology).

ABS:

Available as an option or standard on higher trims. Covers ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, and hydraulic unit.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags may be available on some later models/trims. Manual covers airbag system diagnostics and replacement.

Seatbelts:

Front pretensioner seatbelts, 3-point rear seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio typically AM/FM with CD player or cassette tape. Options for premium sound systems existed. Manual covers basic audio system troubleshooting and speaker replacement.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels. Manual covers cruise control system diagnostics.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on most models. Manual covers system operation and potential diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, refer to manual for severe conditions).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Recommended at every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type (e.g., iridium plugs may have longer intervals), but generally around 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years. Use Mazda's specified coolant.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 is common for most engines. Refer to manual for exact API service classification (e.g., API SN/SP or equivalent).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.7-4.2 quarts (3.5-4.0 liters) with filter, depending on engine.

Coolant Type:

Mazda long-life coolant or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol based, with specific inhibitor package).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some 1.8L (FP-DE) and 2.0L (FS-DE) engines, particularly earlier ones, could be prone to oil consumption due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Manual will detail diagnostics and repair.

Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting:

Occasionally reported issues with rough shifting, potentially related to transmission control module or fluid degradation. Manual covers solenoid testing and control unit checks.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items on vehicles of this age and mileage. Manual provides replacement procedures and alignment specs.

Cv Joint Boots Failure:

Torn CV joint boots can lead to premature failure of the CV joints. Manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some models may experience cracks in the exhaust manifold due to thermal stress. Manual details removal and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda's history is rooted in innovation and driver-centric design, often bringing unique technologies and engaging driving experiences to mainstream segments.

Third Generation:

The 1998-2003 Protege (BJ platform) marked a significant evolution, sharing its platform with other Ford/Mazda vehicles of the era (e.g., Ford Escort, Mercury Tracer).

Protege5:

The Protege5 hatchback variant was introduced in 2002, adding a sportier, more practical option with a unique styling. The manual will cover its specific differences.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the Protege itself didn't frequently make the '10Best' list, Mazda as a brand was recognized for its engineering and driving dynamics, contributing to the Protege's positive reception.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and specific model, but the Protege generally offered good reliability and value.