🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: Protege Year: 1996 Codes Chassis Code: BJ Series (Second Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car / Economy Car Target Audience: Budget-conscious consumers, commuters, students Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Reliability, Fuel Efficiency, Affordable Maintenance, Practicality Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners and technicians with detailed information for maintaining and repairing their 1996 Mazda Protege. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Media Format: CD-ROM 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head, Block, Pistons, Crankshaft, Camshaft, Valvetrain Engine Management: Fuel Injection System (MPI), Ignition System, Emissions Control System, ECU Diagnostics Transmission Manual: Clutch, Gearbox Overhaul, Shift Linkage, Bearings, Seals Transmission Automatic: Torque Converter, Valve Body, Planetary Gears, Hydraulic Control, Overhaul Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive Axles, CV Joints, Differential Suspension: Front Struts, Rear Shock Absorbers, Control Arms, Bushings, Springs, Anti-Roll Bars Steering: Power Steering System, Rack and Pinion, Steering Column, Pump, Hoses Brakes: Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System (if equipped), Parking Brake, Hydraulic System, Master Cylinder, Calipers Electrical System: Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter), Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams Body And Interior: Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System Diagnostics: OBD-II Codes, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Flowcharts Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flushes, Brake Fluid Replacement Repair Procedures: Component Removal and Installation, Adjustments, Calibration Troubleshooting Procedures: Fault Diagnosis for all major systems, Symptoms and Causes Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds Detail Level: Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable text with clear diagrams Printable: Yes, optimized for printing individual sections Print Quality Clarity: Professional printing on CD-ROM media Binding Type Binding: N/A (CD-ROM) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (CD-ROM) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: FS (1.8L DOHC) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated, Inline-4, DOHC Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1839 cc) Performance Horsepower Est: 122 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Est: 116 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Engine Mechanical Bore X Stroke: 83.0 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.1:1 Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DS-i) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Features Automatic Control: Electronically Controlled Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check Manual for Specifics) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mazda ATF J (or equivalent Dexron III) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Est: 102.7 inches (2606 mm) Length Est: 171.1 inches (4346 mm) Width Est: 66.7 inches (1694 mm) Height Est: 55.1 inches (1400 mm) Weights Curb Weight Est: 2500 - 2700 lbs (1134 - 1225 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est: 3700 lbs (1678 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Impact: Not Rated / Likely Good for the Era IIHS Frontal Offset: Acceptable / Good (for the era) Active Features ABS: Optional on some trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger airbags standard Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player (CD player optional on higher trims) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on many trims Connectivity Power Accessories: Power windows, power door locks (often optional or trim dependent) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific conditions) Engine Oil Filter Replacement: With every oil change Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type) Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (CRITICAL component) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for better performance) Engine Oil Capacity: 4.2 US Quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (Mazda Genuine or equivalent) Coolant Capacity Est: 6.3 US Quarts (6.0 Liters) Known Issues Engine: Timing belt failure (if not replaced), minor oil leaks, thermostat issues Suspension: Worn sway bar links, control arm bushings, strut mounts Electrical: Alternator failure, intermittent power window issues Exhaust: Corrosion on exhaust components 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Philosophy: Zoom-Zoom (though not yet formalized, emphasis on driving dynamics) Model Evolution Generation: Second Generation (1990-1998 in some markets, 1995-1998 for this specific refresh) Design Updates: Refreshed styling for 1995 with updated bumpers, grille, headlights, and taillights. Production Production Years Global: 1990-1999 Manufacturing Location Primary: Japan 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Consumer Reports Ratings: Generally good reliability ratings for the era, praised for...