🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: Protege Model Years Covered: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 Generation Generation Identifier: BJ (Second Generation) Codes Chassis Codes: BJ3P (Sedan/Hatchback), BJ5P (Sedan/Hatchback), BJ8W (MPV - unlikely for Protege nameplate but contextually possible for platform sharing) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Compact sedan and hatchback positioned as a value-oriented, reliable, and driver-friendly vehicle in its segment. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier. Key Features Manual Usability: Accessible via PDF on all PC and Mac operating systems, email delivery for instant access, searchable text for quick information retrieval. Key Features Vehicle Design Philosophy: Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy was beginning to be integrated, emphasizing driving dynamics and responsiveness. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete Workshop Service and Repair Information Page Count Estimated Page Count: Thousands (typical for factory service manuals) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Delivery Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, valve train, piston/rod assembly, crankshaft, cylinder head, block assembly Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, EFI system diagnostics Cooling System: Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation, coolant specifications Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors Transmission Manual: Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear ratios, shifting mechanism, fluid specifications, overhaul Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, fluid types, service procedures Suspension Front: MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, steering knuckle, wheel bearings, alignment specifications Suspension Rear: Independent rear suspension (e.g., multi-link or trailing arm depending on specific model variant), shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications Brakes Hydraulic: Brake pedal, master cylinder, brake lines, proportioning valve, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures Brakes Friction: Disc brake calipers, brake pads, rotors, drum brake shoes, drums, parking brake mechanism, ABS system components Steering: Steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, power steering pump, fluid specifications, tie rods, steering linkage Electrical System Charging: Alternator, battery, voltage regulator, wiring and connections Electrical System Starting: Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch, neutral safety switch Lighting System: Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, bulb types and specifications Instrumentation: Instrument cluster, gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights, diagnostic indicators Comfort Controls HVAC: Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (AC) system, refrigerant types, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, climate controls Body Exterior: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, seals, trim, paint repair guidance Body Interior: Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, trim panels, interior hardware Safety Restraints: Seat belts, airbag system components (SRS), diagnostic procedures for airbag system Emission Control: EVAP system, EGR system, PCV system, catalytic converter function, emissions testing requirements Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems, including engine control, chassis, body, and accessories Procedures Included Maintenance Schedule: Recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, inspections Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, error code interpretation (OBD-II) Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment Rebuild Procedures: Detailed instructions for major component overhauls (e.g., engine, transmission) Lubrication: Specific lubricant types, capacities, and service points Specifications Torque: Torque values for all critical fasteners Special Tools: Identification of required specialized tools for specific procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full component overhaul and diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Printability: Printable by user, section by section or in full Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF, user prints and binds) Paper Type Paper Recommendation: User-dependent, but standard printer paper is typical ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Common: FS-DE (2.0L DOHC) Engine Type: Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Displacement: 1991 cc (2.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 83.0 mm x 92.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 (typical) Performance Horsepower Fsde: 125-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (varies by market and specific tune) Torque Fsde: 130-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (varies by market and specific tune) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Variants Possible Optional Engine: YF-DE (1.8L DOHC, less common in North America for this generation Protege, but found in some markets) Performance Yfde: Approx. 120 hp 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or equivalent (verify with specific vehicle application) Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (verify with specific vehicle application) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm) Length: Approx. 173.7 - 175.5 inches (4412 - 4458 mm) (depending on body style) Width: Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm) Height: Approx. 55.7 - 56.3 inches (1415 - 1430 mm) (depending on body style) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700...
Dexron III or equivalent (verify with specific vehicle application)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (verify with specific vehicle application)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.7 inches (2606 mm)
Length:
Approx. 173.7 - 175.5 inches (4412 - 4458 mm) (depending on body style)
Width:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 - 56.3 inches (1415 - 1430 mm) (depending on body style)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700 - 2900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg) (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN sticker or owner's manual (typically around 3700-3900 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Generally not recommended or specified for this model.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good (depending on year and specific equipment)
Active Features
ABS:
Available on select trims/options
Traction Control:
Limited availability, not standard on most models
Passive Features
Airbags Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Optional:
Side-impact airbags (curtain or torso, depending on trim/year)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems available on higher trims. Basic digital displays.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory-equipped for this model year. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Other Features
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using recommended oil viscosity.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum or Iridium plugs: 60,000 - 100,000 miles. Standard plugs: 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (FS-DE engine uses a timing belt, critical replacement item to prevent catastrophic engine damage).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or higher (check manual for exact specification and capacity, typically around 4.0-4.5 quarts).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda's Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.0-6.5 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual), typically reservoir capacity is around 0.5-0.75 quarts.
Known Issues
Engine Common Problems:
Worn engine mounts, oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, occasional radiator fan issues, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn front struts and bushings, premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends, rear wheel bearing noise.
Faulty alternator, battery drain issues, corroded grounds, power window motor failures.
HVAC Common Problems:
Blend door actuator failure, AC blower motor issues, refrigerant leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Focus:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, with a reputation for sporty driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
Protege Lineage:
The Protege line has roots in earlier Mazda compact cars, evolving through several generations to meet market demands for affordability, efficiency, and performance.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially in other global locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Recognition:
Received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its time, particularly when equipped with optional safety features.
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