Historical Context:
The Mazda Protege (BJ platform) was a popular compact car known for its sporty handling and value, competing with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Lancer
Vehicle Appeal:
Sporty driving dynamics, reliable engines, practical hatchback and sedan body styles, affordable ownership
Benefit To Owner:
Essential for identifying correct OEM parts for repairs and maintenance, ensuring vehicle longevity and optimal performance.
Benefit To Technician:
Streamlines parts sourcing, provides accurate part numbers, and aids in accurate labor estimation.
Primary Coverage:
Genuine Mazda Parts Identification and Cataloging
Secondary Coverage:
Parts diagrams, part numbers, pricing, labor estimates
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific catalog section; comprehensive catalogs can exceed 1000 pages
Type:
Parts Manual / Parts Catalog
Format:
Digital (likely PDF based on description), potentially printable
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine assembly, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, clutch, manual/automatic transmission, differentials, driveshafts
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, steering knuckles), rear suspension (multi-link), shocks and struts, springs, bushings, steering components
Brakes And Wheels:
Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS components, wheel bearings, lug nuts
Body And Interior:
Body panels (fenders, hoods, doors, bumpers), glass, seals, trim, interior panels, seats, dashboard, HVAC components, seat belts
Electrical And Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, wiring harnesses, sensors, starter motor, alternator, battery components
Part Identification:
Identification of all genuine Mazda replacement parts with corresponding diagrams
Part Ordering:
Facilitation of accurate part ordering through genuine part numbers
Labor Estimation:
Provides estimated labor hours for part replacement, useful for service planning
Depth:
Comprehensive cataloging of all factory-supplied parts; detailed exploded view diagrams
Pricing Information:
Includes approximate pricing for individual components
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing
Diagram Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams suitable for detailed visual reference
Physical Binding:
N/A (for digital format); for physical versions, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound
Physical Paper:
N/A (for digital format); for physical versions, often durable matte or semi-gloss paper
Engine Code Common:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC I4)
Displacement:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 120-130 hp (depending on specific market and tune)
Torque Est:
Approx. 130-140 lb-ft (depending on specific market and tune)
Engine Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.1:1 or 9.7:1 (varies by sub-model)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)
Alternative Engine:
FP-DE (1.8L DOHC I4) available in some markets/trims
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate, hydraulically operated (for manual)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by transmission and drivetrain; detailed in full service manuals.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 175.8 inches (4465 mm)
Length Hatchback:
Approx. 167.7 inches (4259 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) sedan, 55.1 inches (1400 mm) hatchback
Cargo Volume Hatchback Seats Up:
Approx. 16.1 cu ft (456 L)
Cargo Volume Hatchback Seats Down:
Approx. 43.1 cu ft (1220 L)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 2600-2900 lbs (1180-1315 kg) depending on configuration
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100
Wheel Size Common:
15 inch (e.g., 15x6JJ)
Tire Size Common:
195/60R15 or 205/50R16 (depending on trim)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (driver and passenger) in 1999 NHTSA frontal offset crash tests
IIHS Offset Front:
Acceptable (2001-2003 models received varying ratings)
ABS:
Available/Standard on higher trims (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Less common, but potentially available on specific trims/markets
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard on most models
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, 3-point rear seatbelts
Head Unit Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD or cassette players, often with basic digital displays.
Speaker System:
Standard 4 or 6 speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, particularly higher trims.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not typically equipped with standard AUX or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions required.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to owner's manual for exact spec).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for FS-DE engines: typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years due to interference design. Critical to verify with a service manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (check owner's manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda M-III or equivalent ATF.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 is often recommended for newer vehicles, but for this era, standard green or blue coolant conforming to ASTM D3306 is common.
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear can lead to vibration and noise; replacement is a common repair.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and failure of mufflers and pipes, especially in rust-prone climates.
Suspension Bushings:
Degradation of rubber bushings can lead to clunking noises and poor handling.
Radiator And Hoses:
Aging components can lead to leaks and overheating.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy often influenced the chassis tuning of models like the Protege, aiming for engaging handling.
Third Generation Introduction:
The BJ generation Protege debuted for the 1999 model year, replacing the BG generation. It featured a more modern design and platform.
Facelift:
Received a minor facelift for the 2001 model year, with updated styling and features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and Mexico.
Body Styles:
Available as a 4-door Sedan and a 5-door Hatchback.
