🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: Protegé Model Years Covered: 1999-2003 Codes Platform Code: BJ 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact car, popular for its reliability, affordability, and sporty handling Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra Key Features Manual Benefits: Empowers owners to perform repairs, saving significant money on labor costs; provides in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance and troubleshooting Manual Usability: Designed for ease of use with clear instructions, diagrams, and step-by-step procedures 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Comprehensive service and repair for all Mazda Protegé models 1999-2003 Page Count Estimated Page Count: Thousands (full workshop manual) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF or similar, compatible with PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), cooling system, lubrication system Transmission Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles, differentials Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires Electrical: Body electrical systems, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, starting and charging system, engine control wiring diagrams Body: Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair Rebuild: Component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic values, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams Technical Depth Depth: Professional-level repair and diagnostic information suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (typically, allowing for searchability and printing) Print Quality Reproducibility: High-resolution, clear text and diagrams for easy reading and printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: FS-DE (2.0L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4) Engine Displacement 1: 1991 cc (2.0 Liters) Horsepower 1: Approx. 130-140 hp (depending on trim and year) Torque 1: Approx. 135-145 lb-ft (depending on trim and year) Engine Variants Other Engine Option: Z5-DE (1.5L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4) - less common in North America for this generation Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection Performance Compression Ratio Fsde: 9.7:1 Engine Management ECU Type: Bosch Motronic or similar ECU depending on market 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate, hydraulically operated Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific viscosity) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III / Mercon compatible fluid (Mazda ATF-III) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 2611 mm (102.8 in) Length: Approx. 4300-4350 mm (169.3-171.3 in) Width: Approx. 1705-1707 mm (67.1-67.2 in) Height: Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1200-1350 kg (2650-3000 lbs) depending on body style and equipment Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Typically around 1700-1800 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test: Good (for models tested) IIHS Front Offset Crash Test: Acceptable to Good (depending on year and specific test parameters) Active Features ABS: Available on higher trims and as an option Traction Control: Available on some higher trims (e.g., GT models) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard; side airbags available on some models Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners with load limiters on front seats 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player; basic speaker configuration Navigation: Not available on most models during this period Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims Connectivity Phone Integration: No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from the factory 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs; longer for platinum/iridium plugs if applicable Timing Belt Replacement: Crucial for FS-DE engines: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30. Check owner's manual for exact specification and temperature ranges. Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.1 US quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change for 2.0L engine Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda long-life coolant (Blue) is recommended. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Engine: Timing belt failure is critical. Ignition coil failure (on some models), rear main seal leaks, oil consumption in higher mileage engines. Suspension: Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts leading to noise and poor handling. Rear trailing arm bushings are a common wear item. Exhaust: Rusting exhaust system components, particularly muffler and pipes. Electrical: Power window regulators failing, dashboard dimmer switch...
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from the factory
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs; longer for platinum/iridium plugs if applicable
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for FS-DE engines: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30. Check owner's manual for exact specification and temperature ranges.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.1 US quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change for 2.0L engine
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda long-life coolant (Blue) is recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Engine:
Timing belt failure is critical. Ignition coil failure (on some models), rear main seal leaks, oil consumption in higher mileage engines.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts leading to noise and poor handling. Rear trailing arm bushings are a common wear item.
Exhaust:
Rusting exhaust system components, particularly muffler and pipes.
Electrical:
Power window regulators failing, dashboard dimmer switch issues, occasional alternator or starter problems.
Body Rust:
Potential for rust on rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the rear hatch/trunk lid, especially in areas with road salt.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Brand Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one), emphasizing driving dynamics and connection
Model Evolution
Protege Lineage:
Successor to the Mazda 323/Familia, part of Mazda's global compact car strategy
Generation Bj:
This generation (BJ) was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, featuring a significant redesign over the previous BG platform.
Production
Production Plants:
Primary production in Hofu, Japan; some assembly in other global locations (e.g., Mexico, Thailand)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Protegé LX and ES models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during the late 1990s and early 2000s for their value and driving dynamics.