🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-8

Year:

2004

Generation Identifier:

SE3P

Chassis Code:

SE3P

👋 Introduction

Unique Selling Proposition:

The Mazda RX-8, with its iconic rotary engine and distinctive 'freestyle' door configuration, occupied a unique niche in the sports coupe market, appealing to enthusiasts seeking performance and unique engineering. This service manual provides the critical in-depth information required to maintain and repair this specialized vehicle.

Key Competitors:

While direct competitors were few due to its rotary engine, the RX-8 competed in spirit with cars like the Nissan 350Z, Infiniti G35, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution for performance-oriented buyers, though its platform and powertrain were distinct.

Manual Benefit:

Provides dealer-level diagnostic and repair procedures, detailed illustrations, and step-by-step instructions, empowering both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics to maintain the RX-8's unique rotary powertrain and chassis.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (assumed based on standard Mazda service documentation practices, specific regional variations may exist)

Total Pages:

> 2800

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary Engine (RENESIS - 13B-MSP), including lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel injection, emissions control, and apex seal wear diagnosis.

Transmission:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda Aisin AY-6), clutch system, driveline, and limited-slip differential (LSD).

Brakes:

Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake hydraulics, and parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and Rear Suspension (double-wishbone front, multi-link rear), steering system (power assist), wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical:

Full Electrical Schematics, Battery, Charging System (alternator), Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags).

Body And Chassis:

Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats, Frame/Chassis components, Corrosion Protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement (specific rotary plugs).

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine disassembly and reassembly (including apex seals, rotor housings, stationary gears), clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repair (calipers, rotors, lines), suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with possible causes and solutions, specific rotary engine diagnostic procedures (e.g., compression testing, oil consumption).

Installation:

Component replacement procedures (e.g., starter motor, alternator, fuel pump, sensors), audio system upgrades, trailer hitch installation (if applicable).

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, interior trim replacement, glass sealing and replacement, hinge and latch adjustment.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor replacement, evaporator and heater core access, refrigerant handling (with safety precautions).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold removal, catalytic converter replacement, muffler replacement, lambda sensor (oxygen sensor) replacement.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump assembly replacement, fuel filter replacement, fuel line servicing, fuel pressure testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics. Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and alignment data are included.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux

Printability:

Printable without restriction

Binding Method:

Digital (PDF - no physical binding)

Digital Medium:

Electronic document (PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

RENESIS (13B-MSP)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)

Displacement:

1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotor faces = 1308cc effective displacement)

Horsepower:

Approx. 232 hp (for 6-speed manual transmission models, may vary slightly by region and model year updates within 2004)

Torque:

Approx. 159 lb-ft (for 6-speed manual transmission models, may vary slightly)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (S-MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled with pressurized radiator and electric cooling fans.

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG, SH, SJ, or SL specification; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. Rotary-specific oil injection system.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda Aisin AY-6)

Type:

6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters) - typically for lower horsepower variants or later model years, but manual is primary for this 2004 listing focus.

Driveshaft Type:

RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mazda GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., GL-4 75W-90 or similar, specific part number should be consulted from the manual or Mazda).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., GL-5 80W-90 or 75W-90).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4410 mm (173.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1350-1400 kg (2976-3086 lbs) depending on options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and passenger, based on original crash test data for the generation)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for driver and passenger, based on original crash test data for the generation)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) standard.

Brake Assist:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims may feature premium Bose audio systems. Manual covers speaker replacement and basic system troubleshooting.

Advanced Features:

Key features include ABS, EBD, DSC, and TCS. The manual details the operation and servicing of these systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, with electronic controls. Manual provides diagnostic and repair information.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines require frequent oil changes due to oil consumption and lubrication design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 miles (48,000 km), with specific ignition system checks. Uses dual spark plugs per rotor (one leading, one trailing).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent G12/G12+ or HOAT coolant, typically pink or red).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rotary Engine Oil Consumption:

Characteristic of rotary engines; the manual details how to monitor and the specific oil injection system. High oil consumption can indicate seal wear.

Ignition System:

Coil packs and spark plugs can require frequent replacement. The manual provides specific testing procedures.

Fuel Pump And Injector Issues:

Can occur, impacting performance. Manual provides diagnostic steps and part replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine spans decades, from the Cosmo Sport to the legendary RX-7. The RX-8 continued this lineage, showcasing the rotary's unique benefits like high-revving capability and compact size.

Development:

The RX-8 was introduced as the successor to the RX-7 (FD). It was designed with a focus on practicality, offering a more accessible entry into rotary performance with its unique four-door coupe design and suicide rear doors ('freestyle doors').

Production Period:

2003-2012 (First generation, this manual covers the initial 2004 model year).

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Mazda RX-8 named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2004.

World Car Of The Year Nominee:

Recognized as a finalist in the World Car of the Year awards during its debut.