🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protegé

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

BJ (This model generation often referred to by this chassis code, though specific VIN decoders are definitive)

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (This refers to the 1995-2003 model line globally, with 1996 being an early model year in this generation).

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car / Subcompact Car

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, individuals seeking reliable and economical transportation.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Selling Points:

Affordability, fuel efficiency, reliability, practical interior space for its class, decent driving dynamics for the era.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Engine Coverage:

All engine variants for 1996 Mazda Protegé

Model Trim Coverage:

All trim levels for 1996 Mazda Protegé

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Exact page count varies based on digital format, but is comprehensive, reflecting typical factory service manual depth).

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, internal component diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, component testing, hydraulic system diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, axles, differential, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorber/strut replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, front/rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, ABS system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, component replacement, refrigerant handling.

Body Exterior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Interior trim removal, seat mechanisms, dashboard disassembly.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting (for applicable systems).

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic parameters.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical system wiring schematics.

Depth:

Comprehensive (Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced diagnostics, and bodywork repairs).

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Viewable on all modern computers and mobile devices with PDF reader.

Resolution:

High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FS-DE (Common 2.0L DOHC, though other variants like the 1.5L B-series might exist for specific markets/trims)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Horsepower:

Approximately 120-130 hp (Varies slightly based on specific engine tune and market)

Torque:

Approximately 130-135 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact Mazda specification like 'Mazda ATF-III')

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170.1 inches (4320 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.5 inches (1689 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.8 inches (2610 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this model year in the same way as modern vehicles; focus on passive safety features.

ABS:

Optional on some trims

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD player. Basic speaker system.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

None (This era predates widespread digital connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item for interference engine).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, Mazda specific coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron II/III or Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid

Common Problems:

Ignition coil failure, radiator leaks, worn engine mounts, clutch wear (on manual transmissions), occasional ABS sensor issues.

Common Problems Electrical:

Corroded electrical connectors, intermittent dashboard warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda is known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy, emphasizing driving enjoyment and distinctive design.

Protege Lineage:

The Protegé was Mazda's entry-level compact sedan and hatchback, replacing the 323. The 1996 model is part of the second generation (BG/BJ), which was a significant update from the previous generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with some assembly occurring in other locations for various global markets.

Production Years Global:

1995-2003 (Second Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While not necessarily winning major awards, the Protegé was consistently praised for its value, fuel economy, and reliability in its segment.