Mazda Mazda Protege 1995-1998 Brakes Specifications
Mazda Mazda Protege 1995-1998

Mazda Mazda Protege 1995-1998 Brakes Specifications

Explore the detailed brake specifications for the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege, including rotor sizes, pad types, and caliper details. Ideal for maintenance, repair, and performance upgrades.

Updated

Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the braking system of the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege. It is designed to assist users in understanding the components, maintenance requirements, and performance characteristics of the brakes. Use the search functionality to locate specific terms or navigate through the sections to explore detailed information about the braking system.

How to Use

Use the search bar to enter keywords related to the braking system, such as 'brake pads' or 'rotor diameter'. The results will highlight relevant sections and subsections for quick access.

Scroll through the document or use the table of contents to jump to specific sections. Each section is organized into subsections with detailed technical points for easy reference.

Key Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

10.1 inches (256 mm)

Rear Drum Diameter

7.9 inches (200 mm)

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Stopping Distance (60-0 mph)

135 feet

ABS Availability

Optional

Available Specifications

Front Brakes

This section covers the specifications and details of the front braking system, including the type of brakes, rotor dimensions, and caliper design. It also provides information on maintenance intervals and common issues.

Brake Type and Design
  • Ventilated disc brakes
  • Single-piston floating calipers
  • Rotor diameter: 10.1 inches (256 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 0.98 inches (25 mm)
  • Pad material: Semi-metallic
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional
Maintenance and Replacement
  • Recommended pad replacement interval: 30,000-50,000 miles
  • Rotor resurfacing limit: 0.04 inches (1 mm)
  • Brake fluid type: DOT 3 or DOT 4
  • Fluid replacement interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Rear Brakes

This section provides details about the rear braking system, including the type of brakes, drum or disc specifications, and maintenance requirements. It also highlights differences between models and optional features.

Brake Type and Design
  • Drum brakes (standard)
  • Optional rear disc brakes on higher trims
  • Drum diameter: 7.9 inches (200 mm)
  • Shoe material: Organic
  • Parking brake integrated into rear brakes
Maintenance and Replacement
  • Recommended shoe replacement interval: 40,000-60,000 miles
  • Drum resurfacing limit: 0.04 inches (1 mm)
  • Brake fluid type: DOT 3 or DOT 4
  • Fluid replacement interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Brake System Performance

This section focuses on the performance characteristics of the braking system, including stopping distances, pedal feel, and the impact of optional features like ABS. It also provides insights into common performance issues and solutions.

Stopping Distance and Pedal Feel
  • 60-0 mph stopping distance: 135 feet (without ABS)
  • Pedal travel: Moderate, with firm feedback
  • ABS reduces stopping distance by 10-15% on wet surfaces
  • Brake fade resistance: Good under normal conditions
Common Issues and Solutions
  • Squeaking brakes: Often caused by worn pads or dirty rotors
  • Soft pedal: Check for air in the brake lines or fluid leaks
  • Pulling to one side: Inspect calipers and brake hoses
  • ABS warning light: Check sensors and wiring

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
Hydraulic disc (front), drum (rear)
Configuration
Dual-circuit diagonal split
Platform
Mazda Protege 1995-1998
Material
Cast iron rotors, steel drums
Location
Front and rear axles

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
9.8 inches (249 mm)
Front Rotor Thickness
0.98 inches (25 mm)
Rear Drum Diameter
7.87 inches (200 mm)
Rear Drum Width
1.57 inches (40 mm)
Brake Pad Length
5.12 inches (130 mm)
Brake Pad Width
2.36 inches (60 mm)
Brake Pad Thickness
0.47 inches (12 mm)
Master Cylinder Diameter
0.87 inches (22 mm)

Materials

Rotors
Cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
Drums
High-strength steel
Brake Pads
Semi-metallic friction material
Brake Lines
Reinforced rubber with steel braiding
Calipers
Aluminum alloy

Features

Braking System
  • Dual-circuit hydraulic system
  • Proportioning valve for rear brakes
  • Vacuum-assisted brake booster
Front Brakes
  • Ventilated disc rotors
  • Single-piston sliding calipers
  • Wear indicator sensors
Rear Brakes
  • Self-adjusting drum brakes
  • Integrated parking brake mechanism
  • Dust shields for protection
Safety
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional
  • Brake fluid level sensor
  • Emergency brake assist
Maintenance
  • Easy-access caliper bolts
  • Replaceable brake pad shims
  • Inspection ports on drum brakes

Safety Features

System integrity
  • Dual-circuit design for redundancy
  • Corrosion-resistant components
Performance
  • High-temperature resistant pads
  • Vented front rotors for heat dissipation
Monitoring
  • Brake pad wear indicators
  • Fluid level warning system

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Anti-squeal shims
  • Chamfered brake pads
Pedal Feel
  • Progressive brake pedal response
  • Low pedal effort design
Durability
  • Long-lasting pad material
  • Rust-resistant rotors
Maintenance
  • Easy-to-replace components
  • Minimal adjustment required

Accessories

Upgrades
  • Performance brake pads
  • Slotted rotors
  • Stainless steel brake lines
Tools
  • Brake caliper tool kit
  • Drum brake spring tool
  • Brake bleeder kit
Maintenance
  • Brake cleaner spray
  • Anti-seize lubricant
  • Brake fluid tester

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level
  • Test parking brake function
  • Inspect brake lines for leaks
  • Measure rotor thickness
Notes
Replace brake fluid every 24 months or 30,000 miles

Warranty

Brake Pads
Miles: 24,000
Years: 2
Coverage: Material defects
Rotors
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: Warping or cracking
Calipers
Miles: 50,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Seal failure or piston issues
Master Cylinder
Miles: 60,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Leaks or functional failure

Production Details

Manufacturer
Mazda Motor Corporation
Manufacturing Process
  • Precision casting for rotors
  • CNC machining for calipers
  • Automated assembly for brake lines
Quality Control
Rotors: Tests: Hardness testing,Runout measurement,Surface finish inspection
Pads: Tests: Friction coefficient testing,Durability testing,Noise level testing
Sustainability
  • Recyclable brake components
  • Low-dust pad materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
Production Metrics
Daily Output: 500 sets
Defect Rate: 0.05%
Energy Usage: 15 kWh per set

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

12,000
12
  • Inspect brake pad thickness
  • Check rotor surface condition
  • Test brake pedal feel
  • Inspect brake lines for damage
  • Check brake fluid level

Replace pads if thickness is below 3mm

24,000
24
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Inspect caliper slide pins
  • Check parking brake adjustment
  • Measure rotor thickness
  • Inspect brake hardware

Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid only

50,000
60
  • Replace brake pads and rotors
  • Inspect and lubricate caliper pins
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Check master cylinder function
  • Test ABS system operation

Perform full system bleed after service

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Are brake pads and rotors for the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege interchangeable with other models?

Brake pads and rotors for the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege are model-specific and not interchangeable with other Mazda models or years. The Protege uses a unique brake system designed for its compact size and weight. Always verify part numbers and compatibility using the vehicle's VIN or a trusted parts catalog to ensure proper fitment and performance.

Q2

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the brakes on a 1995-1998 Mazda Protege?

For the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege, inspect brake pads and rotors every 12,000 miles or annually. Replace brake pads when they reach 3mm thickness or show uneven wear. Rotors should be resurfaced or replaced if they are warped or below the minimum thickness specification. Brake fluid should be flushed every 30,000 miles or 2 years to maintain optimal braking performance.

Q3

How do I replace the brake pads on a 1995-1998 Mazda Protege?

To replace brake pads on a 1995-1998 Mazda Protege, lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. Unbolt the caliper and hang it securely. Remove the old brake pads and inspect the rotors. Install new pads, ensuring they are seated correctly. Reattach the caliper and tighten the bolts. Pump the brake pedal to reset the caliper piston before driving.

Q4

What should I do if my 1995-1998 Mazda Protege brakes are squeaking or vibrating?

Squeaking or vibrating brakes on a 1995-1998 Mazda Protege may indicate worn pads, warped rotors, or debris in the braking system. Inspect the pads and rotors for wear or damage. Clean the brake components and apply anti-squeal compound to the back of the pads. If the issue persists, resurface or replace the rotors and ensure proper caliper alignment.

Q5

How can I improve the braking performance of my 1995-1998 Mazda Protege?

To enhance braking performance, upgrade to high-performance brake pads and slotted or drilled rotors for better heat dissipation. Use high-quality brake fluid with a higher boiling point. Ensure proper tire inflation and alignment for optimal contact with the road. Regularly inspect and maintain the braking system to prevent performance degradation.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

1995-1998 Mazda Protege Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege.

Mazda Technical Service Bulletin: Brake System Updates

Coming Soon

Details updates and fixes for common brake system issues in the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege.

1995-1998 Mazda Protege Brake Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Complete catalog of OEM and aftermarket brake parts for the 1995-1998 Mazda Protege.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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