Segment:
Sports Coupe / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking to maintain and repair their RX-8
Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Subaru BRZ (later models), Toyota GT86 (later models)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Naturally aspirated rotary engine (Renesis), unique 'freestyle' door system, balanced chassis
Benefit To Owner:
Significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs, increased understanding of vehicle systems, empowerment for DIY enthusiasts.
Covered Years:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Engine Coverage:
All RX-8 Engines (Rotary)
Trim Coverage:
All Trim Levels
Transmission Coverage:
All Transmission Types (Manual and Automatic)
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Detailed procedures imply several thousand pages when printed)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (Renesis Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks & Replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Circuit Diagrams, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Service, Suspension Overhaul, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Special Procedures:
Renesis Rotary Engine Specifics (Apex Seals, Rotor Housing Inspection), Compression Testing, Oil Metering System Service
Depth:
Complete Workshop Level (from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Name:
Mazda Renesis (13B-MSP)
Engine Type:
Two-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated Rotary Engine
Displacement:
1.3 L (1308 cc or 80 cu. in.)
Horsepower Early Models:
Approx. 232 hp @ 8200 RPM (Manual Transmission)
Horsepower Later Models Auto:
Approx. 212 hp @ 7400 RPM (Automatic Transmission)
Torque Early Models:
Approx. 159 lb-ft (216 Nm) @ 5500 RPM (Manual Transmission)
Torque Later Models Auto:
Approx. 152 lb-ft (206 Nm) @ 5000 RPM (Automatic Transmission)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
ECM (Engine Control Module) with integrated ignition control
Rotary Design:
Peripheral Port Intake, Side Exhaust Porting
Oil System:
Separate Rotary Injector Oil System (RIOS) for lubrication of apex seals and eccentric shaft.
Transmission Type Manual:
6-speed Manual
Transmission Type Automatic:
6-speed Sport Automatic (with paddle shifters in later models)
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual)
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often standard on higher trims, optional on others.
Length:
Approx. 4435 mm (174.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Seating Capacity:
4 (2+2 configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1440 - 1500 kg (3175 - 3307 lbs) depending on transmission and trim
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags, Seat-mounted Curtain Airbags
Seat Design:
Sport seats with side bolstering
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 miles or 6 months, but consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Interval:
Platinum/Iridium spark plugs require replacement around 60,000 - 100,000 miles; critical for rotary health.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ/SL or ILSAC GF-II/GF-III, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Specific rotary oil additive may be required.
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent Blue OAT type)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (Part # 0000-77-GL05-01)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Apex Seals:
Premature wear of apex seals can lead to loss of compression and engine damage. Requires careful monitoring of engine health and proper lubrication.
Carbon Buildup:
Carbon deposits can accumulate in the rotor housings and exhaust ports, affecting performance and emissions. Regular decarb procedures recommended.
Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug ignition systems can be prone to failure, leading to misfires.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume oil as part of their lubrication system. It's crucial to monitor and top up the oil level regularly.
Rotary Legacy:
Continues Mazda's long association with rotary engine technology, originating with the Cosmo series.
Predecessors:
RX-7 (FC, FD generations)
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on lightweight construction, balanced handling, and driver engagement.
Production Period:
2003-2012
Key Updates:
Facelift in 2008 (Model Year 2009) with minor styling and powertrain revisions. Manual covers models up to 2008.
