Vehicle Segment:
Compact sedan and hatchback, positioned as an affordable and reliable option in its class.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Vehicle Strengths:
Reputation for reliability, engaging driving dynamics (especially with Sport models), fuel efficiency, and value for money.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge enabling DIY repairs, reducing dealership costs, and maximizing vehicle longevity.
General Coverage:
Complete service and repair procedures for all systems of the specified Mazda Protege models.
Region Focus:
Primarily North American market specifications, with global applicability for core mechanical and electrical systems.
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific engine and trim, typically 1500-2500+ pages for a comprehensive set.
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (including timing belt, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, starting, charging systems.
Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions (FWD), differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering (power assisted rack and pinion), brakes (disc front/rear, ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, audio system, body control modules, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, HVAC system, airbags, interior trim.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake pad replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures.
Component Repair And Rebuild:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuilds, suspension component replacement.
Electrical System Repair:
Wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, actuator testing, module diagnostics.
Bodywork And Collision:
Panel removal and installation, glass replacement, interior trim repair.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including specific tools and equipment required, wiring schematics for component tracing.
Repair Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls.
Specifications Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Code Ls:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC Inline-4)
Engine Code S:
FP-DE (1.8L DOHC Inline-4)
Engine Code Protege5:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC Inline-4)
Horsepower Ls:
125-130 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on year and specific tuning)
Torque Ls:
135-140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on year and specific tuning)
Horsepower S:
118-122 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on year and specific tuning)
Torque S:
115-118 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on year and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-port injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 recommended for optimal performance).
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Transmission Type Base:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible (automatic), GL-4 75W-90 for manual (check manual for exact spec).
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate with hydraulic actuation (manual transmission).
Length Sedan:
Approx. 174.8 inches (4440 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.8 inches (2610 mm)
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 13.7 cubic feet (0.388 m³)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg), varies by trim and options.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 185/65R14, 195/55R15, 205/40R17 (on Mazdaspeed Protege)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Four-star rating for driver and front passenger (early models, varies by year).
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good (varies by year and specific configurations).
ABS:
Available on most trims, standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on standard Protege models, present on some higher performance variants or specific market trims.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard, side airbags available on higher trims or optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; three-point rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM CD player with cassette (early models), optional premium audio systems, basic speaker configurations.
Display Technology:
Basic digital or analog displays for climate control and audio. No integrated navigation or touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Available on LX and ES trims.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Not available on any trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs; consult manual for specific plug type recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity grades based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Wheel bearings, front sway bar links, rear shock absorbers, clutch wear (manual), automatic transmission solenoids.
Engine Concerns:
Occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, PCV valve issues, potential for sludge if oil changes are neglected.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on wiring connectors, alternator issues on higher mileage vehicles, power window regulator failure.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics and driver-centric design.
Generation Introduction:
The third generation (BJ) Protege was introduced for the 1999 model year, succeeding the BG generation.
Key Variants:
Protege DX, LX, ES, ES-R, Sport, Mazdaspeed Protege (for the 2003 model year).
Production Period:
1999-2003 for the BJ generation covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan, and various global assembly plants.
