🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: 323 Protege Alternate Names: Mazda Artis (some markets) Generation Production Years: 1998-2003 Codes Chassis Codes: BJ (platform) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact/Small Family Car Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, fuel-efficient commuters Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Reliability, fuel efficiency, affordability, surprisingly engaging driving dynamics for its class Manual Value Proposition Benefit To Owner: Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance and repairs, saving money and extending vehicle life Benefit To Business: Provides essential technical documentation for repair shops and automotive enthusiasts 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Markets Covered: Global (specific to models sold under 323 Protege and Artis nameplates) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive coverage for gasoline engines (e.g., Z5, BP variants) Transmission: Manual (M5, G5M) and Automatic (GF4A) transmissions Brakes: Front disc, rear drum/disc, ABS system (if equipped) Steering: Power steering system, steering column components Suspension: Front McPherson strut, rear multi-link/independent suspension Electrical: Full wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, ECU diagnostics Body: Body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, HVAC system Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common problems and solutions Repair: Component-level repair procedures for all major systems Rebuild: Engine and transmission overhaul procedures Disassembly Reassembly: Detailed steps for removing and reinstalling components Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive workshop-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans, clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes: Z5 (1.5L), BP (1.8L/2.0L DOHC) Displacement 1.5L: 1498 cc Displacement 1.8L: 1839 cc Displacement 2.0L: 1995 cc (FS-DE, used in some higher trims/performance models like Mazdaspeed Protege) Performance Horsepower 1.5L: Approx. 90-98 hp Horsepower 1.8L: Approx. 122-125 hp Horsepower 2.0L: Approx. 170 hp (FS-DE, Mazdaspeed) Torque 1.5L: Approx. 90-95 lb-ft Torque 1.8L: Approx. 117-120 lb-ft Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for optimal performance) Valvetrain Configuration: SOHC (Z5), DOHC (BP, FS-DE) Engine Management ECU Type: Mazda Electronic Control Unit (ECU), various models based on engine and year 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed manual (e.g., G5M-P71A) Optional Type: 4-speed automatic (e.g., GF4A-EL) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic clutch actuation Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mazda ATF-SP II M or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (Sedan and Sport Hatchback variants) Wheelbase: Approx. 2615 mm (103.0 in) Length: Approx. 4300-4420 mm (169.3-174.0 in) Width: Approx. 1690-1705 mm (66.5-67.1 in) Height: Approx. 1400-1445 mm (55.1-56.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1150-1300 kg (2535-2866 lbs) depending on configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Could vary by market and specific tests; generally average for the era Active Features ABS: Optional on many trims, standard on some higher-end models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags standard on most models from 1999 onwards Seatbelts: Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners on front belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM radio with CD or cassette player, optional premium sound system Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on higher trim levels Connectivity Aux Input: Not standard; aftermarket solutions common 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs, or as specified in manual for other types Timing Belt Replacement: Approximately every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical on interference engines; consult manual for specific engine) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific recommendations) Coolant Type: Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Common Problems Engine: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, occasional ignition coil failure, carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection models, less common in this era) Common Problems Suspension: Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, occasional strut wear Common Problems Electrical: Window regulator failure, power mirror actuator issues, occasional dashboard illumination problems Common Problems HVAC: Blend door actuator failure, A/C refrigerant leaks 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Reputation: Known for sporty handling ('Zoom-Zoom' era precursor), reliable engines, and value for money Model Evolution Generation Context: This BJ generation replaced the previous BG platform and was also sold as the Mazda Familia in Japan. Production Assembly Locations: Primarily...