Segment:
Compact sedan/hatchback, positioned as a reliable and affordable option
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort
Design:
Sporty styling for its era, driver-focused interior
Handling:
Well-regarded handling characteristics due to its independent rear suspension
Accuracy:
Directly from dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and model-specificity
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of maintenance and repair, unlike generic guides
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, component testing for all gasoline engines including 1.6L (B6) and 1.8L (BP)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil packs, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), electronic ignition control
Transmission:
Manual transmission (FS5W71C), automatic transmission (e.g., JATCO F4A-EL) service, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV joints, drive axles, differential
Suspension:
Front strut suspension, rear multi-link independent suspension, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs), ABS (if equipped), brake fluid, bleeding procedures, caliper and master cylinder overhaul
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, accessory circuits, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan operation
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, emissions control
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and solutions
Repair:
Component disassembly, assembly, repair, and replacement for all major systems
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes (if applicable), specific diagnostic procedures for sensors and actuators
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances
Engine 1 Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 88-98 HP (varies by market and specific tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 92-100 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tune)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 103-125 HP (varies by market and specific tune, e.g., GT models)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 107-117 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tune)
Compression Ratio B6:
Approx. 9.4:1
Compression Ratio Bp:
Approx. 9.0:1
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
ECU Type:
Mazda ECU (specific model varies)
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90, to be confirmed in manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-III or equivalent (specific type to be confirmed in manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.8 inches (2509 mm)
Length:
Approx. 168.9 inches (4290 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.9 inches (1370 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2300-2600 lbs (1043-1179 kg), varies by model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
To be confirmed in manual, typically around 3300-3500 lbs
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100mm
Standard Tire Size:
175/70R13 or 185/60R14 (varies by trim)
Optional Tire Size:
195/55R14 or 205/50R15 (e.g., GT models)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for precise recommendation based on temperature)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7-4.1 US quarts (3.5-3.9 liters) with filter, for 1.6L and 1.8L engines (verify in manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical on BP engine to prevent catastrophic failure)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, Low Viscosity (LV) compatible
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II ATF or equivalent power steering fluid
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan; potential for head gasket issues if overheated; carbon buildup on intake valves, especially in higher mileage BP engines.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, worn strut mounts leading to noise and poor handling.
Electrical:
Flickering dashboard lights, issues with power windows or door locks due to aging wiring or switches, alternator or starter motor failure.
HVAC:
Leaky heater cores, failing blower motors, malfunctioning AC compressors.
Mazda Philosophy:
Focus on Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one'), driver enjoyment, and reliable engineering
Generation:
Second Generation Protege (BG Platform), launched for the 1990 model year, replacing the original BF generation.
Body Styles:
Available as a 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, and 5-door hatchback (Protege5 for some markets).
Production Years:
1990-1994 (for the BG platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly in other locations for specific markets.