Segment:
Compact car, economy sedan/hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, commuters, small families
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Strengths:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, affordable maintenance, practical interior
Trim Levels:
Likely DX, LX, ES (specifics vary by market)
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent repair shops with factory-accurate repair and maintenance data.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for all engine variants
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) system, differentials, axles, CV joints
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension, components, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum/disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic components
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, ignition
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, doors, hinges
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter
Exhaust:
Exhaust system components, catalytic converter, mufflers
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II) code interpretation and troubleshooting
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and rebuilding procedures
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed steps for automatic and manual transmission rebuilds
Electrical Testing:
Testing of sensors, actuators, relays, and control modules
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostic Codes:
Coverage of all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) specific to the 1996 model year
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, and hydraulic schematics
Engine Code:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC) / FP-DE (1.8L DOHC) - Varies by market and trim
Displacement:
1.8L (1839cc) and 2.0L (1998cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approx. 120-125 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1.8L:
Approx. 115-120 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 130-135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 135-140 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, O2 sensors
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (Wagon in some markets)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.3 inches (2624 mm)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 175.4 inches (4455 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500 - 2800 lbs (1134 - 1270 kg), varies by trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Likely 3-star (based on similar era vehicles, consult official NHTSA records for confirmation)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Likely 3-star (based on similar era vehicles, consult official NHTSA records for confirmation)
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on some later models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Child Anchors:
LATCH/ISOFIX not standard in 1996, consult manual for specific recommendations
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard; CD player optional on higher trims
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Cruise Control:
Available on LX and ES trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio system connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (Consult manual for exact mileage/time, dependent on driving conditions)
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, iridium recommended for longevity)
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (FS and FP engines are typically interference engines; failure can cause severe engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and recommend replacing water pump and tensioners simultaneously).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 - 4.5 US quarts (3.9 - 4.3 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Consult manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (Consult manual for specific Mazda spec)
Common Issues:
Ignition coil failure, catalytic converter issues, power window regulators, suspension wear (bushings, struts), occasional transmission synchro issues in manual gearboxes, potential for rust in certain climates, EGR valve clogging.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular fluid changes, timing belt replacement, chassis rust proofing, thorough inspection of suspension components.
Mazda History:
Mazda has a long history dating back to 1920, known for sporty driving dynamics and innovative designs.
Protege Generations:
The 1996 model represents the third generation (BJ, 1998-2003 worldwide, 1999-2003 North America) but the manual specifies 1996 which aligns with the end of the second generation (BG, 1989-1994) or the start of the third generation depending on market introduction timing. This manual likely covers a transition period or specific market variants. Clarification on exact chassis codes is crucial.
Third Gen Introduction:
The BJ platform was globally introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year in North America. A 1996 model designation might refer to a specific earlier market release or a slight mislabeling if it's the BJ platform. The manual's specific coverage will clarify this.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, USA (AutoAlliance International - Michigan)
