🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

323 Protege

Model Generation:

BG

Model Years Covered:

1992-1993

Chassis Code:

BG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car (C-segment)

Target Audience:

Economy-conscious buyers seeking reliability and practicality

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Mitsubishi Mirage

Design Philosophy:

Affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient transportation with a focus on driver engagement

Vehicle Type:

Subcompact sedan and hatchback

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Global markets (mechanical similarities)

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full coverage including disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, diagnostics, and emissions

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and diagnostics

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differential

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on trim), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting, ignition system, starting system, charging system, battery

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel tank, fuel lines

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, coolant specifications

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, gasket replacements

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, door mechanisms, glass replacement

Maintenance:

Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, component testing procedures

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for major and minor component repairs and overhauls

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling all major vehicle systems

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and illustrations

Printability:

Printable for offline use

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

BP (1.8L DOHC)

Engine Type 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement 1:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore Stroke 1:

83.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.0:1

Horsepower 1:

125 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

110 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 2:

B6 (1.6L SOHC - less common in North America for this period)

Engine Type 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve

Displacement 2:

1598 cc (1.6 Liters)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with electronic ignition

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4 gear oil (e.g., API GL-4 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2565 mm (100.9 inches)

Length:

4315 mm (169.9 inches) (Sedan)

Width:

1695 mm (66.7 inches)

Height:

1390 mm (54.7 inches) (Sedan)

Curb Weight Min:

1120 kg (2470 lbs) (approx.)

Curb Weight Max:

1250 kg (2755 lbs) (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and trim, consult manual for specifics

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Impact Rating 1992:

4-star (Frontal)

NHTSA Passenger Side Impact Rating 1992:

4-star (Frontal)

ABS:

Optional on some models/trims

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard, Passenger airbag optional/unavailable depending on market and trim

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point adjustable, Rear 3-point and lap belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (2 or 4).

Controls:

Manual climate controls, radio tuning knobs and buttons.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trims

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on select models/trims

Keyless Entry:

Optional on some higher trims

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil); 5,000 miles or 6 months (with conventional oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs); 60,000 miles (platinum plugs if applicable).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years, as the BP engine is an interference engine. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Capacity 1 8L:

4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change (for BP engine)

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 recommended for most climates (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a green 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issue 1:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule, due to interference design).

Common Issue 2:

Rust and corrosion, particularly in northern climates affecting wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes.

Common Issue 3:

CV joint boots can degrade and tear, leading to noise and failure.

Common Issue 4:

Power steering pump leaks or noise.

Common Issue 5:

Heater core leaks or poor HVAC performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Heritage:

Founded in 1920, Mazda is known for its engineering prowess and historically fun-to-drive vehicles, often pushing boundaries with rotary engines and unique designs.

Familial Lineage:

The 323 (also known as Familia) is a long-standing nameplate for Mazda, with the Protege designation becoming prominent for the North American market in the 1990s, representing a more upscale version of the 323.

Bg Generation Introduction:

The BG generation was introduced globally in 1989, with the Protege branding solidifying its identity in North America for the 1990 model year. The 1992-1993 models represent a mid-cycle update or continuation of the BG platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (primarily), some assembly may have occurred in other countries depending on market

Production Years Global:

1989-1994 (for BG generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Protege model line (often the GT trim) frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists in the early to mid-1990s, praised for its value, handling, and sporty feel.

Consumer Reports Reliability Early Models:

Generally good to excellent reliability for the era, though specific model years and engine variants can have varying reports.

Epa Fuel Economy Estimate 1 8L Manual:

Approx. 25 MPG city / 32 MPG highway (subject to driving conditions and vehicle maintenance)