🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Protege

Model Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

BJ (North America/Australia/NZ), CB (Europe/Asia/South Africa)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, Independent repair shops, Mazda owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra

Dealer Level Access:

Provides the same level of detail and information as official dealership service manuals

Step By Step Instructions:

Detailed, step-by-step procedures for all repair and maintenance tasks

Diagrams Illustrations:

Includes high-quality diagrams and illustrations to aid in understanding complex procedures

📋 Manual Details

Region Covered:

Global (specific to North American/Australian/NZ and European/Asian markets based on chassis codes)

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Clutch, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Air Conditioning

Electrical Systems:

Ignition, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Audio System, ECU Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams

Maintenance:

Routine inspections, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission, power steering), Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt replacement, Brake pad/shoe replacement, Tire rotation

Repair Overhaul:

Engine component overhaul (cylinder head, pistons, bearings), Transmission rebuild, Clutch replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, bushings), Brake system repair (calipers, master cylinder), Steering rack replacement, Axle shaft repair/replacement, Radiator and cooling system repair

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting charts for common symptoms, Diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, Electrical system fault finding, ABS system diagnostics, Airbag system diagnostics

Depth:

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

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

FS-DE (2.0L DOHC), FP-DE (1.8L DOHC), Z5-DE (1.5L SOHC - some markets)

2.0L Fs-De Power:

126-130 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

2.0L Fs-De Torque:

130-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (approx.)

1.8L Fp-De Power:

118-122 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

1.8L Fp-De Torque:

115-120 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (approx.)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Configuration:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts) or SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) depending on engine

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Dry Single Plate Clutch

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

102.8 inches (2610 mm)

Length:

173.2 inches (4400 mm)

Width:

67.1 inches (1705 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

2650-2900 lbs (1200-1315 kg) approx.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (approx. 1995-1998 models)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (approx. 1995-1998 models)

ABS:

Available on select trims

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard on most trims)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional premium audio

Speakers:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory

OBD Ii Port:

Yes, introduced in 1996 in compliance with US regulations

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or 12-24 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (API SJ or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7-4.0 US quarts (3.5-3.8 liters) with filter

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF

Engine Mounts:

Can degrade over time, leading to vibration

Ignition Coils:

Can fail, causing misfires and rough running

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Prone to wear, causing humming or grinding noises

Body Rust:

Can affect wheel arches, sills, and subframes in corrosive environments

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Focus on driving dynamics ('Zoom-Zoom' precursor), reliable and practical vehicles

Generation:

Third Generation Protege (1998-2003), this manual covers the end of the second generation (1995-1998)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan, North America (Mazda Canada Inc.)

Production Start Year:

1990 (global Protege line), 1995 (specific to this manual's generation update)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Protege LX was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1995

Consumer Reports:

Generally positive reliability ratings for its class during the period, with some noted common issues detailed in the manual