Mazda Protege (1998-2003) How to Remove the Bumpers

Mazda Protege III: Model Overview

The Mazda Protege is a compact car produced by the Japanese automaker Mazda from 1990 to 2004. The third generation (Protege III) was introduced in 1998 and manufactured until 2003, after which it was replaced by the Mazda3. This model was known under different names depending on the market: in Japan, it was sold as the Mazda Familia, in Europe as the Mazda 323, and in North America and some other regions, it retained the name Protege.

 

Production Years and Facelift

The Protege III was produced from 1998 to 2003. In 2001, the model underwent a facelift, which included changes to the headlights, grille, and bumpers. The interior and some technical components were also updated.

 

Model Code and Body Types

The platform for the third-generation Protege was designated as BJ (BJ-5P for the sedan, BJ-3W for the hatchback). Available body types included:

  • 4-door sedan (the most popular version)
  • 5-door hatchback (less common, especially in the U.S.)
  • 5-door station wagon (available in some countries, such as Japan and Europe)

 

Modifications and Engines

The Protege III was offered with several gasoline and diesel engines, depending on the market:

  • 1.3L (FP-DE) – base engine, mainly for the Japanese market.
  • 1.5L (ZM-DE) – common option for Asia and Europe.
  • 1.6L (ZM-DE, ZY-VE) – installed in North American and European models.
  • 1.8L (FP-DE) – a more powerful version available in the U.S. and Canada.
  • 2.0L (FS-DE) – sporty versions like the Mazda Protege MP3 and Mazdaspeed Protege (turbocharged).
  • Diesel options (1.9L RF) – for the European market.

 

Transmissions:

  • 5-speed manual (main option)
  • 4-speed automatic (on some modifications)

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Lift the hood.
  2. From the top side, unscrew two bolts and remove two clips securing the grille and the upper part of the bumper.
  3. Unscrew eight bolts from the underside, which are fastened from below upward and secure the lower part.
  4. Turn the wheels to the side and unscrew three bolts on each side in the wheel arches (may be push pins) that secure the fender liners to the bumper.
  5. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew the bolts (one or two, depending on the production year) that secure the corners to the fenders.
  6. Remove the bumper forward, being careful not to tear any wires.
  7. Disconnect the power connectors for the fog lights.

Mazda Protege Front Bumper Mounting Diagram (1998-2003)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid (5th door).
  2. Under the lid, unscrew two bolts.
  3. Remove the trunk trim panels.
  4. From inside the trunk, unscrew the nuts, disconnect the power connectors, and remove the rear lights.
  5. Under the rear lights, remove two clips.
  6. Go under the bumper, unscrew two bolts, and remove two clips securing the lower side.
  7. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts and free the edges of the fender liners; unscrew one bolt on each side securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
  8. Unscrew eight nuts securing the bumper brackets to the rear trunk panel.
  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward.

Mazda Protege Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (1998-2003)

Model Description

The Protege III featured a balanced suspension, providing good handling. The design was modern for the late 1990s, with smooth lines and neat proportions. The interior used inexpensive but high-quality materials.

 

Features:

  • Safety: Depending on the trim, ABS and airbags were available.
  • Comfort: Air conditioning, power accessories, and a CD audio system.
  • Sport Versions: The Mazdaspeed Protege (2003) had a turbocharged 2.0L engine (170 hp) and an upgraded suspension.

 

Interesting Facts

  • The Mazdaspeed Protege was the first mass-produced Mazda with a turbocharged engine since the legendary RX-7.
  • The Mazda Protege MP3 (2001) was a special version with a tuned suspension, an MP3 audio system, and unique styling.
  • In rally racing, private teams competed with the Mazda 323 (the European equivalent of the Protege).
  • In some markets (e.g., Mexico), the model was sold under the name Chantez.
  • In Australia and New Zealand, the Protege III was called the Mazda 323 Astina.

 

Conclusion

The Mazda Protege III is a reliable and practical car that served as a transitional model between older compact Mazdas and the modern Mazda3. Despite its age, many examples are still on the road thanks to their durable construction and the availability of spare parts.