Positioning:
Iconic Japanese sports car, renowned for its rotary engine and exceptional handling. Positioned as a high-performance, enthusiast-focused vehicle.
Competitors 1996:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (JZA80), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968.
Distinctive Features:
Lightweight chassis, 50/50 weight distribution, twin-sequential turbocharging, advanced rotary engine technology, sophisticated suspension geometry.
Audience:
Enthusiasts, mechanics, restorers, and owners seeking to maintain, repair, or optimize their 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Engine Coverage:
Rotary engine, 13B-REW, twin-turbocharged, apex seals, rotor housing, eccentric shaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission Coverage:
R581 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system, driveline, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Front suspension (double wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system, power steering, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, anti-roll bars.
Brake System Coverage:
Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, rotors.
Electrical System Coverage:
12V battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECU (Engine Control Unit), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body And Interior Coverage:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seats, dashboard, interior trim, HVAC system, airbags.
Troubleshooting Coverage:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, repair steps for specific problems.
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
All Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (if applicable to rotary), fluid checks and top-offs.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild (apex seal replacement, rotor housing resurfacing), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed steps for rebuilding the 13B-REW engine, transmission, differential, and major sub-assemblies.
Restoration Procedures:
Guidance on restoring various components, bodywork repair, interior refurbishment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues like starting problems, misfires, overheating, turbocharger issues, ABS faults, and electrical gremlins.
Depth:
In-depth, factory-level technical detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearance measurements, and detailed exploded diagrams.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Aspiration:
Twin-turbocharged (Sequential)
Horsepower Ps:
255 PS @ 6500 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Apex Seal Material:
Ferro-ceramic (later models, critical for longevity)
Oil Metering System:
Separate oil injection system for apex seals and lubrication.
Type:
R581 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
None for 1996 model year in most markets.
Gear Ratios Final Drive:
Typically 4.300:1 final drive ratio (check specific market configuration)
Gear Oil Type:
GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (refer to manual for precise specification)
Type:
Hydraulic, single dry plate.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not explicitly rated for this specific year in all markets; generally considered robust for its class.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on market/trim (often denoted as TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 3-6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Air Filter Replacement Km:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 km.
Fuel Filter Replacement Km:
Every 40,000 - 50,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement Type:
Specific platinum or iridium tipped plugs required for rotary engines. Interval varies greatly, often 30,000-50,000 km. Crucial to use correct plugs.
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 4.4 Liters (with filter) - consult manual for exact figure.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Liters:
Approx. 2.1 Liters (refer to manual for exact figure).
Differential Fluid Capacity Liters:
Approx. 1.3 Liters (refer to manual for exact figure).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap/manual).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check manual).
Apex Seal Wear:
Primary concern for rotary engines. Can lead to compression loss, poor starting, and engine failure if not addressed. Regular maintenance and proper break-in are critical.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil as part of their lubrication system. Excessive consumption can indicate seal issues.
Sequential Turbo System:
Complexity of the twin-turbo system can lead to issues with solenoids, vacuum lines, and intercoolers if not properly maintained.
Vacuum Lines:
Aging rubber vacuum lines can degrade, causing boost leaks and drivability issues.
Fuel Pulsation Dampener:
Can fail over time, leading to rough running or starting problems.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering history with the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport in the 1960s.
Rx-7 Generations:
SA/FB (1st Gen), FC (2nd Gen), FD (3rd Gen). The 1996 model represents the highly acclaimed and most advanced FD generation.
Production Period Fd:
1992-2002
Design Philosophy:
Apex of Mazda's sports car development, focusing on lightweight construction, pure handling, and the unique rotary powerplant.
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The FD RX-7 was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run, recognized for its performance and handling.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year Contender:
Frequently considered a strong contender in performance car shootouts.
Handling Reputation:
Universally acclaimed for its superb handling dynamics, often considered one of the best-handling cars of its era.
Manual Certification:
This manual is derived from factory service information, providing authentic and accurate data for repair and maintenance.