Younger buyers, budget-conscious consumers, first-time car owners.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Key Features
Value Proposition:
Affordability, reliability, surprisingly engaging driving dynamics (especially with the Mazdaspeed variant), practical interior.
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive repair and maintenance guidance for Mazda Protege models from 1994-1998, enabling technicians and knowledgeable owners to perform accurate and efficient work.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Language:
English
Format:
PDF Download
Primary Audience:
Mechanical Technicians
Page Count Estimate:
Approx. 1500-2000 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual of this era)
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (Check manual for specific Mazda specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF JWS 3317 (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Length
Value:
Approx. 4390 mm (172.8 in)
Exterior Width
Value:
Approx. 1705 mm (67.1 in)
Exterior Height
Value:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in)
Wheelbase
Value:
Approx. 2615 mm (103.0 in)
Track Width Front
Value:
Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Track Width Rear
Value:
Approx. 1465 mm (57.7 in)
Curb Weight
Range:
Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs), depending on trim and options
Cargo Volume
Sedan:
Approx. 13.7 cu ft
Hatchback:
Approx. 21.8 cu ft (rear seats up), 41.3 cu ft (rear seats folded)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings Nhtsa
Frontal Driver Side:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary models)
Frontal Passenger Side:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary models)
Ratings Iihs
Frontal Offset:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific test year and configuration)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this generation
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment with crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level
Display:
Basic analog gauges, optional digital clock
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not available
Bluetooth:
Not available
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
If equipped, inspect annually
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs, inspect earlier
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (CRITICAL for FS-DE engine - non-interference)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SJ or ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 for warmer climates)
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF)
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter
Coolant:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 L)
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Can deteriorate over time, leading to increased vibration.
Fuel Pump Assembly:
Occasional failures reported, leading to no-start conditions.
Brake Rotors:
Prone to warping if not maintained, especially in performance-oriented driving.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise and require replacement due to wear.
Interior Rattles:
Common in many vehicles of this era; often due to aging interior plastics and trim.
Window Regulators:
Can fail, causing power windows to not operate correctly.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba-Ittai ('Horse and Rider as One') - focus on driving feel and connection.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Mazda 323/Familia
Generation Introduction:
1994 marked the introduction of the third generation (BJ chassis), replacing the BG chassis.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with certain Ford Escort/Mercury Tracer models from the era.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, North America (various plants)
Production Years Bj Chassis:
1994-2003 (global production, with regional variations)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Protege LX and ES models were often praised for their value and handling, though did not consistently make the '10Best' list in this specific generation.
Ratings
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable, with common wear items being the main concern for older models.
Certifications
Emisiones Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years.
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