Front strut assembly, rear shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, bushings, wheel alignment specifications, torque values.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor (if equipped).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, brake fluid specifications, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, weatherstripping, interior trim, body sealant.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, refrigerant type and charge, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit, heater core, cabin air filter (if applicable).
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common failure modes, electrical diagnostics using multimeter and oscilloscope.
Repair Engine:
Complete engine rebuild, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing replacement, timing belt/chain replacement and alignment, oil pump replacement.
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 RON/91 AKI or higher)
Other Engine Options
Engine Displacement Alternative:
1.5L SOHC (e.g., 1.5L B5-ME)
Engine Maintenance
Timing Belt Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical to check and replace)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF Type T-IV (or equivalent Dexron-III)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 4350-4400 mm (varies by body style - sedan/hatchback)
Width:
Approximately 1680-1700 mm
Height:
Approximately 1380-1410 mm
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2610 mm
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1100-1250 kg (varies by trim and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
Likely 4-star (1996 standards, actual rating may vary)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
Likely 4-star (1996 standards, actual rating may vary)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on many trims, standard on higher trims (Anti-lock Braking System)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player available on higher trims. Basic speaker configuration.
Display:
Analog gauges, simple climate controls, no central display screen.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on many trims.
Stability Control:
Not available on this model year.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available.
Usb Ports:
Not available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (if standard copper plugs), or longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.2-4.5 Liters (with filter)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Mazda Genuine ATF or Dexron-III
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to severe engine damage.
Common Problem 2:
Catalytic converter failure or clogging due to age or engine issues.
Common Problem 3:
Front suspension wear, including ball joints and bushings, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Common Problem 4:
Automatic transmission issues, such as slipping or delayed shifting, often related to fluid degradation or solenoid faults.
Common Problem 5:
Rusting, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the rear subframe mounting points, especially in areas with road salt.
Common Problem 6:
Ignition coil or spark plug wire issues, leading to misfires and poor performance.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mazda has a history of producing sporty and engaging vehicles, often with a focus on driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation Mazda Protege (BJ platform for some markets, but 1996 is often associated with the preceding BG platform in North America).
Design Changes Era:
This generation saw a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Mexico, Thailand, Taiwan
Production Years For This Generation:
Approximately 1995-1998 (varies by market and model updates)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 model year are not prominent, the Protege line generally received positive reviews for its value and driving dynamics during its production run.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable; some years/components rated average to above average, others average. Maintenance is key to longevity.
Certifications
Emissions Certification:
Compliant with US EPA emissions standards for 1996.
Ao escolher uma seleção, a página inteira é atualizada.