Segment:
Compact/Subcompact car, known for its sporty handling and value.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra.
Handling:
Praised for its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension, especially in higher trims like the Mazdaspeed Protege (which, though later, shares core platform elements).
Reliability:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle, with common issues addressable through proper maintenance outlined in this manual.
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of performance, features, and affordability in its class.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed information on all gasoline engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and overhaul procedures for: ZM-DE (1.5L), FS-DE (2.0L), and potentially FS-ZE (JDM 2.0L DOHC 'MP3'/'MSP' variant if applicable to the manual's scope).
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel system (injection), emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), intake and exhaust systems, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor and actuator testing, timing belt replacement and inspection.
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (MT) and Automatic Transmission (AT) servicing, including clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, torque converter, valve body diagnostics, fluid changes, and overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV axles, differential, hubs, wheel bearings, and related components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, and linkage components; diagnosis and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes (and potential rear drum brakes on some trims), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor replacement, master cylinder.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), starting and charging system, battery specifications, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, and instrument panel.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, cabin air filter replacement, and diagnostic procedures.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, fenders, bumpers, hood, trunk, glass replacement, interior trim components, and basic body repair techniques.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame specifications, mounting points, corrosion protection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, coolant replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, tire rotation, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues across all major vehicle systems.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually every system.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, actuator testing using scan tools.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, component dimensions, clearances, and tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Options:
ZM-DE 1.5L SOHC I4, FS-DE 2.0L DOHC I4 (Standard on many trims).
Engine Codes And Variants:
ZM-DE (1.5L, approx. 90-105 hp), FS-DE (2.0L, approx. 115-130 hp). Some markets may have had the FS-ZE (2.0L DOHC, approx. 170 hp in Mazdaspeed Protege).
Horsepower Range:
90 hp to 130 hp (excluding Mazdaspeed variant).
Torque Range:
90 lb-ft to 135 lb-ft (excluding Mazdaspeed variant).
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 5-7 years for the FS-DE and ZM-DE engines. Critical to follow manual recommendation for specific engine.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20, API SJ or higher (check manual for precise specification and viscosity grade based on ambient temperature).
Engine Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent; a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Alternator:
Alternator failure can occur, leading to charging system issues.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings can become noisy or fail over time.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or failing power steering pumps can cause stiff steering.
Evaporative Emissions Control System:
Issues with EVAP canister purge valves or vent solenoids can trigger check engine lights.
