🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Year:

2001

Platform Code:

BJ (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Key Competitors:

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

Appeal:

Known for its sharp handling (often attributed to its Mazda 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy), reliable engines, comfortable ride, and sporty styling compared to some competitors.

Availability Variants:

Offered in various body styles and engine configurations, catering to a broad range of buyers seeking value and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

1.6L DOHC (BP-ZE), 2.0L DOHC (FS-DE), 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged (FS-DET - Mazdaspeed Protege)

Transmission Coverage:

5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door)

Trim Levels Covered:

DX, LX, ES, MP3, Mazdaspeed (where applicable for 2001)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, emissions control, engine management systems (ECU/ECM), starter, charging system.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, shift linkage), Automatic transmission (hydraulic control, torque converter, planetary gearsets), axles, CV joints, differential.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut, control arms), Rear suspension (multi-link beam axle), power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnosis, parking brake.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments, gauges, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, audio system wiring, body control modules (BCM).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heating system (heater core, blower motor, controls), climate control operation.

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, seatbelts, glass, exterior trim.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, cooling system problems, starting and charging issues, using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair Rebuild:

Engine component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, OBD-II diagnostics.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance, component-level diagnostics, in-depth repair procedures, and full system overhauls. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF with bookmarked sections for easy navigation.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital format); Typically saddle-stitched or perfect bound for printed versions.

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format); Original manuals often used durable, matte-finish paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

1.6 Liters

Engine 1 Type:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Engine 1 Code:

BP-ZE

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 105-110 hp

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 100-105 lb-ft

Engine 2 Displacement:

2.0 Liters

Engine 2 Type:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Engine 2 Code:

FS-DE

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 120-125 hp

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 125-130 lb-ft

Engine 3 Displacement:

2.0 Liters (Turbocharged)

Engine 3 Type:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), Turbocharged

Engine 3 Code:

FS-DET

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 170 hp (Mazdaspeed Protege)

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 170 lb-ft (Mazdaspeed Protege)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum recommended (higher for turbocharged models).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, 'Sport' mode available on some trims.

Manual Features:

Hydraulic clutch actuation.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.7 inches (2608 mm)

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 171.9 inches (4366 mm); Hatchback: Approx. 164.6 inches (4180 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) for Sedan, Approx. 55.3 inches (1405 mm) for Hatchback

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm

Tire Sizes Standard:

P185/75R14, P195/60R15 (depending on trim)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 12.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 17.8 cu ft (rear seats up), 40.0 cu ft (rear seats folded)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2600-2900 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (for driver and passenger) in 2001 frontal offset crash test.

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for driver and rear passenger) in 2001 side impact test.

ABS:

Available on certain trims (e.g., ES), standard on Mazdaspeed Protege.

Traction Control:

Limited availability, potentially on higher trims or optional.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side-impact airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with 4 or 6 speakers. Cassette player was also common.

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Available on most LX and ES trims.

Security System:

Factory immobilizer and keyless entry available on higher trims.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic audio output. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; platinum or iridium plugs may have longer intervals.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (or 5W-20 for improved fuel economy if specified for specific engines).

Coolant Spec:

Mazda FL22 Green (Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent Asian vehicle coolant.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda FZ, Dexron III, or equivalent ATF. Check manual for specific capacity.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Engine Mounts:

Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration. Replacement is often recommended around 80,000-100,000 miles.

Exhaust System:

Rust and corrosion can affect exhaust components, particularly in areas with heavy road salt usage.

Power Steering Pump:

Occasional leaks or noise from the power steering pump or rack may occur.

ABS Sensors:

ABS sensor failures can trigger the ABS warning light.

Cv Joints:

Wear on CV joint boots can lead to contamination and premature failure, often indicated by clicking noises during turns.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda's commitment to driving dynamics and the 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy, emphasizing responsive handling and driver engagement.

Third Generation:

The 2001 model is part of the third generation (BJ platform) of the Mazda Protege, which ran from 1998 to 2003. This generation saw significant styling updates and improved chassis dynamics.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and by affiliate plants.

Mazdaspeed Variant:

The high-performance Mazdaspeed Protege variant, introduced in 2003 model year for North America, featured a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, making the 2001 model a precursor to this enthusiast variant.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Mazda Protege models were often praised by automotive publications for their handling, with some variants appearing on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in earlier generations. The 2001 model continued this reputation for driving dynamics.