Every 30,000-60,000 miles (NGK Platinum recommended)
Spark Plug Spec 1:
e.g., NGK BKR5E-11 (for ZL-DE, FS-DE)
Spark Plug Gap:
0.039-0.043 inches (1.0-1.1 mm)
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (crucial due to interference engine design)
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, typically a silicate-free, long-life ethylene glycol coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.5 US quarts (varies by engine and cooling system)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II/III or Mazda genuine power steering fluid
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Degradation and cracking of engine mounts leading to increased vibration
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure, especially in earlier models or if engine oil consumption is high
ABS Sensors:
Failure of ABS wheel speed sensors leading to ABS warning light and malfunction
Radiator Leaks:
Cracks or leaks in the radiator or coolant hoses, especially at higher mileage
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Premature wear and noise from rear wheel bearings
Automatic Transmission Sluggishness:
Occasional reports of delayed shifts or sluggish performance in automatic transmissions, often related to fluid degradation or solenoids.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold, particularly on the FS-DE engine, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable, fun-to-drive vehicles, often punching above their weight in terms of driving dynamics and design.
Model Evolution
Previous Generations:
The Protege nameplate replaced the Mazda 323/Familia. The 1996-2006 period covers the final two generations of the Protege.
First Generation Covered:
1996-1998 (BA chassis, often referred to as the 'last 323' in some markets)
Second Generation Covered:
1999-2003 (BJ chassis, the primary focus for the majority of this manual's coverage)
Facelift:
The BJ generation received a significant facelift for the 2001 model year, updating styling and features.
Replacement:
The Protege was replaced globally by the Mazda3 (Axela in Japan) for the 2004 model year.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, also Mexico for North American markets.
Production Years Total:
1990-2003 (Protege/Familia/323 line)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above-average reliability by organizations like Consumer Reports during its production run, with variations by specific model year and engine.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda Protege 5 (wagon variant) was frequently praised for its practicality and value, though the sedan/hatchback often competed in tighter segments.
Safety Awards:
Received positive safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its time, particularly those equipped with optional side airbags.
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