🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Years Covered:

2002, 2003

Chassis Codes:

BJ Series (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier

Vehicle Strengths:

Reliability, fuel efficiency, sporty handling (especially with Sport trims), value for money, distinctive styling (for its era)

Trim Levels:

DX, LX, ES, GS, GT (with variations in engine, suspension, and features)

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical (all variants), Engine control system (ECU, sensors, actuators), Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Emission control systems

Transmission:

Manual transmission, Automatic transmission (including torque converter, valve body, gear sets), Clutch system, Drivetrain components (axles, driveshafts, differentials)

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Parking brake, Brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front suspension (McPherson strut, control arms, stabilizer bar), Rear suspension (independent multi-link), Steering system (power steering, steering column, steering gear), Wheel alignment specifications

Electrical:

12V electrical system, Battery, Charging system (alternator, regulator), Starting system (starter motor), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Instrumentation, Wiring diagrams (detailed by system), Fuses and relays, Power windows, locks, mirrors, Audio system

Bodywork:

Body structural components, Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass and seals, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)

Maintenance:

Oil change, Filter replacement (oil, air, fuel, cabin), Spark plug replacement, Fluid checks and top-offs, Tire rotation and inspection, Brake pad replacement, Wiper blade replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts and flowcharts, Symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code interpretation and P-code lookup, Diagnostic connector location and usage

Repair:

Component removal and installation (e.g., engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brake calipers, alternators, starters), Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Body panel repair, Interior component repair

Installation:

Accessory installation, Component replacement procedures

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, camshaft timing, valve adjustment (if applicable).

Transmission Repair:

Disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of both manual and automatic transmissions, torque converter replacement, valve body diagnosis.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, sensor testing and replacement.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant handling (with safety precautions), component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), system diagnosis.

Body And Trim:

Removal and installation of interior trim panels, exterior body panels, door mechanisms, glass replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)

Specifications And Tolerances:

Includes precise torque specifications for all fasteners, critical component clearances, and diagnostic parameter ranges.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing. May include hyperlinked sections.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution images and diagrams, clear text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Scope:

Covers all aspects of vehicle service and repair, intended for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

FS-DE (2.0L DOHC Inline-4), YD-DE (1.8L DOHC Inline-4 - possibly for certain markets/trims)

2.0L Horsepower:

125-130 hp (varies slightly by year and specific engine calibration)

2.0L Torque:

135-140 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and specific engine calibration)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil packs

1.8L Engine Specs:

1.8L DOHC Inline-4 (YD-DE), approx. 120-125 hp, 120-125 lb-ft torque (specific details may vary and are covered in the manual)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission with overdrive

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual (typically Dexron III or equivalent for automatic, gear oil for manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 102.7 inches (2609 mm)

Length:

Approximately 174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

Approximately 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg), varies by trim and configuration

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 94.6 cubic feet

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 12.1 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Good (for driver and passenger in side impact, often varies by specific model year and testing criteria)

ABS:

Optional (standard on some higher trims)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags (standard), Optional side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system, cassette player in some models.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speakers

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims

Auxiliary Input:

Rare on factory systems of this era, aftermarket solutions common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs

Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:

API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check manual for exact recommendation based on climate)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mazda's FL22 or equivalent green long-life coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Mounts:

Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and engine movement.

Catalytic Converter:

Can fail due to age, mileage, or engine issues leading to poor performance and emissions.

Automatic Transmission:

Some models may experience harsh shifting or shuddering; fluid flushes and filter changes can help mitigate this.

Radiator:

Plastic end tanks can crack or leak over time.

Power Steering Pump:

Can develop leaks or become noisy.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

Japan

Generation Code:

BJ Series (Second Generation, 1998-2003 in most markets, with the 2002-2003 facelift/final iteration)

Production Years:

1998-2003 (globally, with specific focus on 2002-2003 for this manual)

Assembly Locations:

Various Mazda plants globally, including Japan and Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally rated well for reliability and owner satisfaction in its class during its production run.

Jd Power Dependability:

Often received good to above-average ratings for dependability compared to segment rivals.