Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, good handling, affordable price point, sporty styling (GT models)
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for maintaining and repairing this generation of Protege accurately.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (Z5, BP, FS engines), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, turbocharging (Mazdaspeed Protege)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (FS5W71B), automatic transmission (GF4A-EL), clutch, driveline, drive axles, CV joints
Brakes Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake
Steering Suspension Systems:
Power steering system, steering gear, suspension components (front struts, rear multi-link), wheel alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starter motor, battery, body control modules, fuses, relays, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body Chassis Systems:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, frame, rust prevention, corrosion protection
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, strut replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair, electrical component replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, OBD-II diagnostics, specific component testing, fault code interpretation
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics)
Engine Code 1:
Z5-DE (1.5L SOHC)
Horsepower 1:
90-94 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
Torque 1:
91-94 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm
Engine Code 2:
BP-Z3 (1.8L DOHC) / BP-VE (1.8L DOHC)
Horsepower 2:
122-125 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2:
117-120 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code Performance:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC)
Displacement Performance:
1991 cc
Horsepower Performance:
130-135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Performance:
135-140 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine Code Mazdaspeed:
BPT (1.8L DOHC Turbo)
Horsepower Mazdaspeed:
170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Mazdaspeed:
177 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential multi-point injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for turbo models)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (FS5W71B)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (GF4A-EL)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic dry single-plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil JWS 3309 compatible)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (e.g., Mazda ATF J2)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Driver: 4/5 Stars, Passenger: 4/5 Stars (1998-1999 models)
IIHS Offset Frontal Crash Rating:
Acceptable (1998-2003 models)
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on higher trims and Mazdaspeed models
Traction Control:
Optional on some higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or consult owner's manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs), 30,000 miles (copper plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4-5 years (critical for Z5 and BP engines, which are interference engines).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30. Consult manual for specific climate recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda long-life coolant recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III compatible (check manual for exact specification).
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure (critical to follow replacement schedule for interference engines Z5 and BP).
Common Problem 2:
Catalytic converter failure (especially on higher mileage vehicles).
Common Problem 3:
CV joint wear and tear, leading to clicking noise on turns.
Common Problem 4:
Ignition coil failure, causing misfires.
Common Problem 5:
Corrosion on rear wheel arches and rocker panels.
Mazda History:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and fun-to-drive vehicles, often focusing on engineering and driver engagement.
Protege Lineage:
The Protege (also known as 323 in many markets) has been a staple in Mazda's lineup for decades, evolving through multiple generations.
Third Gen Introduction:
The third generation (BJ) launched for the 1999 model year (though often referred to as 1998 in sales literature for early models), replacing the BG generation. It brought a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics and chassis dynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and North America (Mazda USA, formerly AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, Michigan).
