Positioning:
Affordable, sporty, and reliable compact offering with good handling dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra
Performance Variants:
Includes specific information for the high-performance Mazdaspeed Protege, known for its turbocharged engine and sporty tuning.
Handling:
Renowned for its well-tuned chassis and engaging driving experience, a hallmark of Mazda vehicles.
Value Proposition:
Offers a blend of practicality, performance, and value, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a fun-to-drive car.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics, turbocharger (Mazdaspeed)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (MTX), Automatic transmission (ATX), clutch system, transmission overhaul, electronic controls
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), axles, CV joints, differentials
Suspension Systems:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, brake fluid specifications
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, sensors
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures, component testing
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake pad replacement, belt inspections/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Systematic diagnostic approaches for various issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, voltage checks
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and wiring.
Engine Code 1:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC Inline-4)
Horsepower 1:
130 hp @ 6000 rpm (non-MP3/Mazdaspeed)
Torque 1:
135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (non-MP3/Mazdaspeed)
Engine Code 2 Mazdaspeed:
FS-DET (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4)
Horsepower 2 Mazdaspeed:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm (Mazdaspeed)
Torque 2 Mazdaspeed:
170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Mazdaspeed)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 octane (minimum recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard on ES and Mazdaspeed trims, optional on LX
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or higher (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol based, pink or green).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issue 1:
Catalytic converter failure, particularly on higher-mileage vehicles.
Common Issue 2:
Worn suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, tie rod ends) leading to clunking noises or poor alignment.
Common Issue 3:
Rear wheel bearing noise or failure.
Common Issue 4:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
