Market Segment:
Compact Sedan and Hatchback (Global)
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, Fuel Efficiency, Sporty Handling (especially with certain trims), Affordable Maintenance
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers DIY mechanics and professional technicians with comprehensive, detailed repair and maintenance data for the Mazda Protege (BJ generation).
Coverage:
All Models, All Repairs A-Z, Mechanical & Electrical
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals covering multiple years and models)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), Printable
Systems:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (FWD, AWD if applicable), Brakes (ABS, standard), Steering, Suspension, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, component testing), HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Component Removal & Installation
Instrumentation And Controls:
Detailed information on dashboard instruments, warning lights, and control switches.
Cooling And Heating:
Detailed information on radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, and climate control system diagnosis and repair.
Fuel And Emissions:
Covers fuel pump, injectors, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), EGR system, and catalytic converter testing and repair.
Wheel And Tire:
Information on wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, and alignment procedures.
Procedures:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Reassembly Instructions, Specifications and Tolerances, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Testing, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Engine Tune-up, Clutch Service, Differential Service
Troubleshooting Charts:
Comprehensive troubleshooting charts and flow diagrams for diagnosing common and complex issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete rebuild procedures for all major systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Provides precise torque specifications, measurement tolerances, and clearances for engine components, suspension, and more.
OBD Ii Support:
Covers OBD-II diagnostic codes, procedures, and component testing for engines and emissions systems.
Body Repair:
Includes procedures for body panel removal/installation, collision repair guidelines, and chassis alignment specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, including component locations and connector pinouts.
Digital Format:
PDF (Searchable text and high-resolution images)
Printability:
High-resolution, printable pages for easy on-the-job reference.
Binding Type:
Digital - N/A (if printed, likely bound with spiral or comb binding for lay-flat usability)
Paper Type:
Digital - N/A (if printed, typically heavy-duty, glossy or semi-gloss paper for durability)
Text Search:
Full text searchability allowing quick access to specific topics, procedures, and specifications.
Chapter Structure:
Organized into logical chapters for easy navigation (e.g., Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Electrical, Body).
Engine Code:
Z5-DE (1.5L), BP-Z3 (1.8L), FS-DE/FS-ZE (2.0L DOHC - optional/performance)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-130 HP depending on engine and market (e.g., 1.5L Z5-DE ~90 HP, 1.8L BP-Z3 ~120 HP, 2.0L FS-DE ~130 HP)
Torque Range:
Approximately 90-130 lb-ft depending on engine
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder, Front-engine, Front-wheel drive (FWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD) for certain models/markets
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated (some markets may have had turbocharged variants like the MSP - Mazdaspeed Protege)
Engine Tune Up:
Includes detailed procedures for ignition timing, idle speed adjustment, and emissions control system checks.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate, Diaphragm Spring
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent as specified in the manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-MV (or equivalent Mercon V compatible)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (MP3, Mazdaspeed Protege variants often hatchbacks)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)
Length:
Approx. 171.7 inches (4361 mm) for sedan, 169.3 inches (4300 mm) for hatchback
Width:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm) for sedan, 55.5 inches (1410 mm) for hatchback
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500-2800 lbs (1134-1270 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 3700-3900 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star (based on typical performance for the era)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star (based on typical performance for the era)
ABS:
Available on higher trims and optional
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard on most models
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones for energy absorption
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with speaker systems (upgraded Bose in some trims/MSP).
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Traction Control:
Available on select models, particularly later years and sport variants.
Power Windows Locks:
Available on most trims, standard on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for interference engines. Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). The manual will specify the exact interval for each engine. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on engine and climate, consult manual).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT/HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Common Problems:
Front strut mounts/bearings, exhaust manifold cracks (especially 2.0L), O2 sensor failures, AC system leaks, rust on body panels (especially in certain climates), ignition coil failure, power steering pump leaks.
Manual Diagnosis Aid:
The manual provides diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting steps to address these common issues.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and often driver-focused vehicles, known for their 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy.
Bj Generation Intro:
The BJ generation Protege was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the BG generation. It featured a more modern design and improved platform.
Sport Variants:
Includes the enthusiast-oriented Mazdaspeed Protege (MSP) with a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, and the MP3 with enhanced audio and sport styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan and North America (various plants).
Production Span Bj:
1998-2003 (for the 1999-2003 model years covered by this manual)