🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-8

Model Code:

SE3P

Generation:

First Generation (FE)

Generation Years:

2003-2012

Chassis Codes:

SE3P

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Targeted towards Mazda RX-8 owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as independent repair shops needing comprehensive technical data.

Value Proposition:

Offers significant cost savings by enabling DIY repairs and preventative maintenance, preventing overcharging by dealerships and generic repair shops.

Ease Of Use:

Easy layout format, user-friendly for individuals with basic mechanical aptitude. Simple download and access via PC/MAC.

Visual Aids:

Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams to illustrate repair procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All Mazda RX-8 models (2003-2008)

Engine Types Covered:

All engine types (specifically the Renesis rotary engine)

Page Count:

Estimated to be extensive, covering thousands of pages across multiple volumes typical for factory workshop manuals.

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Quality:

Professional quality, with detailed pictures and diagrams.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print only necessary sections.

License:

Unlimited use, never times out or expires.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full engine disassembly, assembly, rebuild procedures for the Renesis rotary engine, including apex seals, rotor housings, side housings, eccentric shaft, oil injection system, and cooling system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (sequential multi-point), engine control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators, and starting system.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Type R154 equivalent or similar Mazda 6-speed) and Automatic transmission (likely a 4-speed or 5-speed unit specific to the RX-8) including removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Differential, driveshafts, half-shafts, wheel bearings, and axle assemblies.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (electric or hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, including discs, calipers, pads, master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) components, and bleeding procedures.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, structural components, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, and anti-corrosion measures.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and climate control unit.

Electrical System:

Full vehicle electrical system, including wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, power locks, central locking, audio system, instrument cluster, and fuse/relay locations.

Safety Systems:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and associated sensors and control modules.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid checks and changes.

Tune Up Procedures:

Ignition timing adjustments, fuel system cleaning, idle speed adjustments, and diagnostic checks.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine overhaul procedures for the Renesis rotary engine, including apex seal replacement, rotor housing lapping, and reassembly specifications.

Transmission Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch replacement, gear synchro diagnosis and replacement, and torque converter service.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, ABS system diagnostics and repair, and brake fluid bleeding.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of worn suspension components, alignment procedures, power steering system diagnostics and repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting and repair of electrical faults using wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.

HVAC System Service:

Refrigerant system servicing, component replacement, and diagnostic procedures for HVAC issues.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, dent repair, rust remediation, and interior trim installation/removal.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications. Equivalent to dealership-level technical information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

Mazda Renesis (13B-MSP)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary Engine (Wankel)

Rotor Displacement:

654 cc per rotor (1308 cc total effective displacement)

Horsepower Gs:

215 hp @ 7000-8200 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower Gt:

232 hp @ 7000-8200 rpm (approx.)

Torque Gs:

159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque Gt:

159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Premium (91 octane or higher) recommended, especially for optimal performance.

Oil Type:

API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, SN or ILSAC GF-3, GF-4, GF-5. Recommended viscosity: SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate specific recommendations).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change. The manual will detail exact capacity.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mazda Genuine B6Y1-14-302 (verify specific application)

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent. Capacity approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters). Manual will provide specific details.

Spark Plugs:

Direct ignition system with individual coils per rotor. Specific spark plug types (e.g., NGK) and gap settings are critical and detailed in the manual.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed or 6-speed Automatic Transmission (availability varied by market and trim)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Manual transmission fluid specification may vary, consult manual for exact type and quantity).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF JWS 3309 or equivalent (Automatic transmission fluid specification may vary, consult manual for exact type and quantity).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

106.4 inches (2703 mm)

Length:

174.6 inches (4435 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

54.1 inches (1375 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3050-3200 lbs (1383-1451 kg) depending on trim and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard or manual for specific GVWR.

Wheel Size:

Standard: 18 inches. Optional: 19 inches.

Tire Size Standard:

225/45R18

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5 Stars (for driver and passenger in early models, may vary by year/testing agency)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good (for early models, check specific year ratings)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS)

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Solid discs (caliper size and material specifications detailed in manual).

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags (availability varies by trim).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium Bose audio system with CD player and amplifier (available on higher trims). Manual covers system diagnostics and component replacement.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system (availability varies by trim and market).

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronically controlled cruise control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Critical for rotary engine longevity. Manual will provide precise recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Manual will specify.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually. Manual will specify.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type and usage. Rotary engines are sensitive to plug condition. Manual will provide exact interval and specifications.

Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Manual will provide precise interval.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type. Some models use ATF, others use dedicated power steering fluid. Capacity is typically around 1 quart.

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear of apex seals is a common concern with the Renesis engine, often linked to maintenance practices, driving style, and proper oil consumption. The manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.

Carbon Buildup:

Carbonization in the rotor housings and exhaust ports can occur, impacting performance. Regular use of specific cleaning additives or procedures (covered in manual) can mitigate this.

Oiling System:

The oil metering system is crucial. Blockages or malfunctions can lead to lubrication issues. The manual details its inspection and maintenance.

Eccentric Shaft Seal Wear:

Can lead to oil consumption or internal leaks. The manual provides diagnostic steps and repair procedures.

Ignition System Issues:

Coil packs and spark plugs require regular inspection and replacement due to the nature of the rotary engine. Manual provides specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mazda is renowned for its focus on driving dynamics and innovative rotary engine technology.

Predecessor:

RX-7 (FC and FD generations), continuing the lineage of Mazda's rotary-powered sports cars.

Key Innovation:

The Renesis engine was a significant evolution of the Wankel rotary, designed for improved emissions and fuel economy compared to previous generations, and was the sole engine offered.

Production Start Year:

2003

Production End Year Covered By Manual:

2008

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Ten Best Engines:

The Renesis rotary engine was recognized on Ward's 10 Best Engines list multiple times for its innovative design and smooth power delivery.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Mazda RX-8 was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for several consecutive years.