Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bars), rear suspension (independent multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, linkages, steering angle sensor (if applicable).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), parking brake, ABS system operation and components.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, chassis structure, corrosion protection, body repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate controls.
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, battery maintenance, wiper blade replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine and other systems, step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major vehicle systems.
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for Mazdaspeed)
Engine Management
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel, ignition, and emissions.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
Automatic Control:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive.
Fluid Specification
Manual Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Consult manual for exact spec/brand)
Automatic Fluid:
Mazda ATF MV Type or equivalent (Consult manual for exact spec/brand)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Sedan
Length:
Approx. 172.8 - 174.0 inches
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 55.7 - 56.1 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.4 inches
Exterior Hatchback
Length:
Approx. 164.2 inches
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.4 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700 - 3000 lbs (varies by model and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle documentation.
Towing Capacity:
Not designed for significant towing; consult owner's manual for specific limitations.
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 12.0 - 13.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 20.0 cu ft (with rear seats up), 39.0 cu ft (with rear seats folded)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested during these years, check specific year/model for exact ratings).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested during these years, check specific year/model for exact ratings).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested during these years, check specific year/model for exact ratings).
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags available on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners and load limiters on front belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM radio with CD player or cassette player. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic dashboard cluster with analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. No central infotainment screen on most models.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Power Windows Locks:
Power windows and door locks available on most trims, standard on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions; consult manual for severe conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Recommended with every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (for standard plugs) or 100,000 miles (for platinum/iridium plugs, consult manual).
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2-3 years, or as needed based on inspection and fluid condition.
Transmission Fluid Replacement Manual:
Consult manual, often less frequent but inspect for leaks.
Transmission Fluid Replacement Automatic:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, or as specified by Mazda.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Around 60,000 - 90,000 miles (FS-DE engine uses a timing belt; critical to replace to avoid severe engine damage).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or ILSAC GF-2 certified (Consult manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors. Capacity approx. 6.0-6.5 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (Consult manual for exact spec).
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration and clunking noises.
Alternator Failure:
Alternators can fail prematurely, leading to battery discharge and electrical system issues.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joints can wear out, causing clicking noises during turns.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings may develop a humming or grinding noise as they wear.
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion can affect the exhaust system components, leading to leaks.
HVAC Blend Door Actuator:
Blend door actuators in the HVAC system can fail, causing incorrect temperature or air distribution.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda is known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy, emphasizing driving enjoyment and innovative engineering.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This covers the third generation (BJ) of the Mazda Protege, launched in late 1998 for the 1999 model year.
Redesign:
The BJ generation featured a significant redesign with more aerodynamic styling and improved chassis dynamics.
Special Editions:
Included sport-oriented trims like the ES, MP3 (performance-tuned), and the high-performance Mazdaspeed Protege (turbocharged).
Production
Production Years:
1999-2003 (for the BJ generation covered by this manual).
Production Locations
Manufacturing:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and North America (e.g., Mazda's Flat Rock, Michigan plant).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year:
Mazda Protege and its variants received positive reviews and some regional awards for value and performance during its production run.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability by consumer organizations during its era, with some specific model years and components having better or worse tracked reliability.