🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

BJ (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda Protege (2003 model year) was a strong contender in the compact car segment, known for its sporty handling, reliability, and value proposition, appealing to a broad demographic including young drivers, families, and budget-conscious buyers.

Target Audience:

Owners looking to perform DIY maintenance, troubleshoot issues, or undertake repairs to save money and maintain their vehicle's longevity.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Nissan Sentra, often differentiating itself with a more engaging driving experience and a stylish design.

Key Features:

The 2003 Protege offered a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with available sport-oriented trims (e.g., ES, SP) and optional features that were often class-leading or unique at its price point.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and technical specifications for all major systems of the 2003 Mazda Protege.

Page Count:

Not specified in product information, but factory service manuals typically range from 1500-3000+ pages.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General information, Engine Mechanical, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control Systems, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Front and Rear Axles, Steering System, Braking System, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical System, Heater and Air Conditioner (HVAC) Systems.

Technical Data Section:

Includes a dedicated 'Technical Data' section with essential specifications, capacities, and tolerances.

Special Tools Section:

Includes a 'Special Tools' section listing necessary or recommended tools for specific repair procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis, component removal and installation, component overhaul, system adjustments, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine control, body control, lighting, HVAC, and infotainment.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Technical Depth:

Deep technical coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, including detailed schematics, diagnostic flowcharts, and repair procedures for complex systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format allows for text searching, making it easy to find specific topics or keywords.

Print Quality:

Printable

Binding Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Compatibility:

Windows and MAC operating systems

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (BP-Z3)

Secondary Engine:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (FS-DE)

Horsepower 1.6L:

Approx. 105 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 1.6L:

Approx. 100 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 130 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Emission Control Systems:

Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system.

Engine Electrical Components:

Ignition system (coil-on-plug or distributorless ignition), starter motor, alternator, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, coolant temp, O2, MAF), ECU/PCM.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (with electronically controlled torque converter clutch)

Transmission Features:

Both transmissions are front-wheel drive (FWD) transaxles. The manual offers precise gear selection for sporty driving, while the automatic provides convenience. The manual covers clutch assembly and hydraulic system.

Manual Transaxle Components:

Clutch, pressure plate, flywheel, gear sets, synchronizers, shift forks, drive axles, differential. Covers removal, installation, and internal repair.

Automatic Transaxle Components:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, clutch packs, transmission fluid cooler, electronic controls. Covers diagnosis and basic repair procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)

Length:

Approx. 173.0 inches (4394 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg), varies by trim and options.

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 11.8 cu ft (sedan), varies by body style.

Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm (4 Lug)

Wheel Size:

Typically 14-inch or 15-inch wheels depending on trim level.

Tire Size:

Common sizes include 185/70R14, 195/60R15, or 205/50R16 for sportier trims. Consult manual for specific fitments.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 2003:

4/5 stars

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating 2003:

4/5 stars

Active Safety Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Front-wheel disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs on some trims).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, Optional side-impact airbags, Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, Child safety seat anchors (LATCH).

Braking System Details:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums standard. Some higher trims may have rear discs. Covers master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake.

Suspension System Details:

Front: MacPherson strut with stabilizer bar. Rear: Independent multilink suspension or semi-independent torsion beam (depending on model variant). Covers shocks, struts, springs, bushings, alignment.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models typically featured an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Higher trims might have offered more speakers or a cassette player. This manual covers the body electrical system, which includes audio system components and wiring.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by 2003 standards; primary advanced features would be optional ABS. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were standard or widely available.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. These would be aftermarket additions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 75,000 miles (120,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (iridium recommended for longer life).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended (check manual for exact viscosity and API service category).

Coolant Specification:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives, typically pink).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or manual specified gear oil).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda ATF-M-III or equivalent DEXRON II/III (check manual for exact specification).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

Occasional reports of minor oil leaks, exhaust system rust, and some electrical issues (e.g., power window regulators). The manual provides detailed diagnostics for these and all other potential problems.

Oil Filter Example:

Example: Mazda B6Y1-14-302 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3500, Purolator PL10241, Wix 51356). Specific part number depends on engine variant; refer to manual or parts catalog.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) with filter for 1.6L and 2.0L engines. Consult manual for exact capacity.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters). Consult manual for exact capacity.

Transmission Fluid Automatic Capacity:

Approx. 6.6 quarts (6.3 liters) for refill. Consult manual for exact capacity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, often focusing on driving dynamics and innovative design, building a reputation for quality and driver enjoyment.

Model Evolution Protege:

The 2003 model is part of the second generation (BJ) of the Protege, which debuted for the 1999 model year, featuring a significant redesign with improved styling, safety, and refinement over its predecessor.

Production Years Bj Chassis:

1999-2003

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mazda Protege line often received positive reviews for its driving dynamics and value, contributing to Mazda's reputation for building fun-to-drive cars.