🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: Protege Years: 1996, 1997, 1998 Codes Platform: BJ (This generation also known as BG in some markets before facelift) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Sedan/Hatchback Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Lancer. Key Features Vehicle Attributes: Known for reliability, sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and practical design. Manual Value Proposition: Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the detailed knowledge to maintain and repair the Mazda Protege effectively, saving time and money. Target Audience Audience: Mazda Protege owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Complete Service and Repair Procedures Vehicle Trims: All available trims for 1996-1998 Protege (e.g., DX, LX, ES, ES-X, SP20 (if applicable to US market that year)) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500-2000+ (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual covering multiple model years and variants) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, internal components, timing belts/chains, seals, gaskets, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (injection/carburetion), emission control systems. Engine Performance: Ignition system, sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, etc.), fuel injectors, ECU/PCM diagnostics, performance tuning aspects. Transmission: Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, linkages), automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, fluid management). Drivetrain: Axles, CV joints, driveshafts, differential (if applicable). Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses, fluid), manual steering components, steering column, tie rods. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, ABS system components and diagnostics (if equipped). Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relays, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers. Body And Chassis: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk, chassis components, structural repairs (limited). HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (AC) system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, climate control unit. Safety Systems: Airbag system components and diagnostics (if equipped), seat belts. Procedures Included Preventive Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, tire rotation. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system fault finding, OBD-II codes and interpretation. Repair And Rebuild: Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems. Component Replacement: Specific procedures for replacing commonly worn or failed parts like brake pads, alternators, starter motors, water pumps, radiators, fuel pumps, etc. Adjustments: Wheel alignment adjustments, parking brake adjustments, idle speed adjustments (if applicable). Specifications Data: Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine data, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, alignment angles. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Diagnostic Level: Advanced diagnostics, including interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and sensor data. Repair Detail: Detailed component-level repair instructions, including special tool requirements and procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable for quick access to information. Print Quality: Printable for offline use. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Examples: FS-DE (2.0L I4), Z5-DE (1.5L I4 - depending on market/trim) Displacement: 1.5L (91 cu in) / 1.8L (110 cu in) / 2.0L (122 cu in) - Specific to trim and market. Cylinders: Inline 4-Cylinder (I4) Valvetrain: DOHC 16-valve (typically) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 90-125 hp (depending on engine and market) Torque Range: Approximately 95-130 lb-ft (depending on engine and market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane typical, check manual for specific octane requirements) Other Cooling System: Pressurized, liquid-cooled system. Emission Control: Catalytic converter, EGR, O2 sensors, PCV system. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up. Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check manual for exact specification and capacity) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mazda ATF Type T-IV or equivalent (Check manual for exact specification and capacity) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 169.1 - 170.5 inches (4295 - 4330 mm) - Sedan Width: Approx. 66.7 inches (1695 mm) Height: Approx. 54.7 - 55.1 inches (1390 - 1400 mm) - Sedan Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500 - 2800 lbs (1134 - 1270 kg) - Varies by trim and configuration. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual for specific GVWR. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Refer to specific NHTSA reports for 1996-1998 Protege for exact ratings. IIHS Side Impact: Refer to specific IIHS reports for 1996-1998 Protege for exact ratings. Active Features ABS: Available on select trims (e.g., ES). Traction Control: Rarely equipped on this generation, check specific vehicle. Passive Features Airbags: Driver...