Niche:
Performance sports coupe with a unique rotary engine, targeting enthusiasts and those seeking a distinctive driving experience
Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Toyota Celica GT-S (in its segment at the time)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Rotary (Wankel) engine providing high-revving performance and a unique sound, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, suicide doors (freestyle doors)
Years Covered:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Vehicle Types:
All Mazda RX-8 models (coupe, convertible variants if applicable)
Geographical Coverage:
Global, factory specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, covering all listed sections (typically 1000+ pages for full factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine Management:
Apex seal diagnostics, rotary engine theory, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, emission controls
Drivetrain:
Clutch (single and twin plate options), Manual transmission (RX-8 specific gearbox), Automatic transmission, Propeller shaft, Front and Rear Axles (differential and CV joints)
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering system (rack and pinion), Braking system (ABS, EBD, DSC), Front and Rear Suspension (double wishbone, multi-link), Wheels and Tires (specifications and mounting)
Electrical And Body:
Engine electrical system (ignition, sensors), Body electrical system (lighting, power accessories, keyless entry, alarms), Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, component testing, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, body panel repair
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition coil checks
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and component specifications
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
Renesis (13B-MSP)
Displacement:
1308cc (2 x 654cc rotors)
Power Output Early:
Approx. 210-217 hp (depending on market and trim)
Power Output Late:
Approx. 191-232 hp (depending on market and trim, post-facelift models and higher trims)
Torque Output Early:
Approx. 159 lb-ft (215 Nm)
Torque Output Late:
Approx. 159-164 lb-ft (215-222 Nm)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (S-EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended, Octane rating 91+)
Maintenance Considerations
Oil Type Recommendation:
High-quality synthetic engine oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications, with appropriate viscosity (e.g., 5W-30)
Apex Seal Consideration:
Crucial to follow manual procedures for engine oil level maintenance and pre-mixing 2-stroke oil for lubrication if applicable (refer to manual for specific generations).
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Gear Ratios Manual:
Specific ratios detailed in manual, but known for close ratios and high performance gearing.
Type:
6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters on some trims)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent specifications.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.4 inches (2700 mm)
Length:
Approx. 170.1 inches (4320 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 52.7 inches (1339 mm)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1406 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3100-3200 lbs (1406-1451 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (for driver and passenger, 2004 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2004-2007 models)
Traction Control:
Standard on most models, with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (depending on trim and year)
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with subwoofer available on higher trims; CD player, AM/FM radio.
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system available on some models.
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and TCS (Traction Control System) standard on many models.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and push-button start on select trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for typical driving. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions. Rotary engines require diligent oil maintenance.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; typically around 30,000-50,000 miles, but can vary based on ignition system health and driving style.
Ignition Coil Inspection:
Regular inspection recommended; ignition coil failure is a known issue on the RX-8.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity based on engine variant).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine FL22 Coolant or equivalent (long-life ethylene glycol based).
Apex Seal Wear:
Potential for apex seal wear leading to compression loss, particularly if engine is not maintained properly (oil levels, carbon buildup).
Ignition Coils:
Frequent failure of ignition coils leading to misfires and rough running.
Starter Motor Issues:
Can experience hot start issues, sometimes related to the starter or fuel system priming.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume oil for lubrication; consistent monitoring and topping up is critical.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long history with rotary engines, dating back to the Cosmo and RX series (RX-7, RX-3).
Generation 1 Facelift:
2009 facelift introduced updated styling, improved interior, and some mechanical revisions. Rear cross-member stiffening was also a key update.
Production Start Year:
2003
Production End Year:
2012
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
