🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: Protege Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 Generation: Third Generation (BJ) Codes Chassis Codes: BJ3P (Sedan), BJ5W (Wagon), BJ8W (MPV/MPV AWD - some models overlap), BK3P (Mazda3 chassis predecessor, some platform similarities) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car / Small Family Car Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers, young drivers, small families, enthusiasts seeking reliable and affordable transportation. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Jetta. Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Reliability, fuel efficiency, sporty handling (especially with FS-ZE engine), affordability, good value for money. Manual Value Proposition: Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and empowering owners to understand and maintain their vehicle's performance and longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete vehicle service and repair for all systems. Specific Models Covered: All body styles including Sedan, Hatchback (some markets), and Wagon. Includes variations for different engine and trim levels within the specified years. Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2500+ pages (typical for a comprehensive WSM) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (WSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical (Z5, ZM, FS-DE, FS-ZE), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system. Transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, axles, driveshafts. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheel bearings, hubs. Body And Interior: Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, glass, HVAC system, body electrical, lighting, mirrors, bumpers. Electrical And Electronics: Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, starter system, charging system, battery, lighting, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, audio system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement. Diagnosis And Troubleshooting: Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues, transmission problems. Repair And Overhaul: Engine overhaul procedures, transmission rebuilds, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair, interior component repair. Specifications And Data: Torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data, test procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear diagrams and schematics. Print Quality Recommendation: Printable on demand for use in workshop environments. Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Digital Paper Emulation: Simulated, with clear page layouts. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Common Engines: 1.5L Z5-DE (I4), 1.8L ZM-DE (I4), 2.0L FS-DE (I4), 2.0L FS-ZE (DOHC I4 - Mazdaspeed Protege) Performance 1.5L Z5-De: Approx. 90-105 hp @ 6000 rpm, 90-95 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm 1.8L Zm-De: Approx. 120-125 hp @ 6000 rpm, 115-120 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm 2.0L Fs-De: Approx. 125-130 hp @ 6000 rpm, 135-140 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm 2.0L Fs-Ze (Mazdaspeed): Approx. 170 hp @ 6000 rpm, 165 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm Fuel System Induction: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for most variants. Turbocharged (FS-ZE). Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane typical, higher for FS-ZE). 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: 5-speed manual (FS5A-EL, G5M-R, etc. depending on engine/model) Optional Automatic Transmission: 4-speed automatic (F4A-EL, J4A-EL, etc.) Features Clutch: Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch for manual transmissions. AWD Option: Available on some Wagon and MPV models (BJ chassis). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 171-175 inches (Sedan), 173-175 inches (Wagon) Width: Approx. 67.5 inches Height: Approx. 55.5-57 inches (Sedan), 57.5-59 inches (Wagon) Wheelbase: Approx. 102.8 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500-2900 lbs (varies by engine and trim) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 stars (for driver/passenger respectively in earlier models, may vary by year/test) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable/Good for many models, but can vary. Specific year testing advised. Active Features ABS: Available on higher trims, standard on some later models. Traction Control: Limited availability, primarily on performance variants or later models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard from early production. Side airbags available on select later trims. Seat Belts: Front 3-point with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point and lap belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette players. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades. Speakers: Standard 4-speaker or optional 6-speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most higher trim levels. Connectivity OBD Ii Port: Standard OBD-II diagnostic port available from 1996 onwards, facilitating emissions and engine diagnostics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or per owner's manual recommendation). Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (visual inspection recommended more frequently). Spark Plug Replacement: 100,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs (check specific type), 30,000 miles for copper. Timing Belt Replacement: Recommended...
BJ3P (Sedan), BJ5W (Wagon), BJ8W (MPV/MPV AWD - some models overlap), BK3P (Mazda3 chassis predecessor, some platform similarities)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, young drivers, small families, enthusiasts seeking reliable and affordable transportation.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Jetta.
Key Features
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, sporty handling (especially with FS-ZE engine), affordability, good value for money.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and empowering owners to understand and maintain their vehicle's performance and longevity.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Complete vehicle service and repair for all systems.
Specific Models Covered:
All body styles including Sedan, Hatchback (some markets), and Wagon. Includes variations for different engine and trim levels within the specified years.
4/5 stars (for driver/passenger respectively in earlier models, may vary by year/test)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good for many models, but can vary. Specific year testing advised.
Active Features
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on some later models.
Traction Control:
Limited availability, primarily on performance variants or later models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard from early production. Side airbags available on select later trims.
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point and lap belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette players. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Speakers:
Standard 4-speaker or optional 6-speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most higher trim levels.
Connectivity
OBD Ii Port:
Standard OBD-II diagnostic port available from 1996 onwards, facilitating emissions and engine diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or per owner's manual recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (visual inspection recommended more frequently).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs (check specific type), 30,000 miles for copper.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years for FS engines (non-interference, but recommended to prevent catastrophic failure if it breaks). Z5 and ZM engines are often chain-driven.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. Check specific manual for details.
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil recommended for manual transmissions.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda Genuine ATF J TYPE or equivalent ATF Dexron III/Mercon.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to vibration, especially on older models. Replacement often needed.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Common on some FS-DE engines due to heat cycling; can cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Power Steering Pump:
Can develop leaks or noisy operation. Check fluid levels and condition.
Body Rust:
Can occur in rust-prone climates, particularly on rocker panels, wheel arches, and rear quarter panels.
Automatic Transmission Failure:
Some units can be prone to internal wear or solenoid issues if not properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai - 'horse and rider as one', emphasizing driver engagement and responsive handling.
Model Evolution
Bj Generation Introduction:
The BJ generation (1998-2003 for most markets, extended to 2006 for some regions) replaced the BG generation, featuring a more modern platform and improved safety and comfort.
Facelifts And Updates:
Minor styling updates and feature enhancements occurred throughout the generation. The Mazdaspeed Protege (2003-2003.5) was a significant performance variant introduced mid-generation.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (primary), also assembled in other Mazda plants globally.
Production Period:
1998 - 2003 (core BJ), extended to 2006 in some markets.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability and owner satisfaction during its production run, particularly for the sedan models.
Car And Driver 10Best:
While the Protege itself was not consistently on the 10Best list, its predecessor (BG) and successor (Mazda3) were, indicating Mazda's focus on sporty driving dynamics within the segment.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its respective model years.