Vehicle Class:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Key Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro
Unique Selling Proposition:
Rotary engine technology, balanced chassis, distinctive styling, performance orientation
Repair Ease:
Designed to make every repair job easy to do for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike.
Manual Coverage Years:
1989, 1990, 1991
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., Base, GXL, GTU, Turbo II, Convertible)
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500 (estimated for comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Manual Quality:
Professional Quality, In-depth Service & Repair Manual
Digital Format:
Downloadable (PDF or similar digital format)
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (13B), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
5-speed manual transmission, 4-speed automatic transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differential
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear independent), steering, brakes (front vented discs, rear discs), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, charging system, starting system, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), body sealing
Powertrain Coverage:
Complete engine, transmission, clutch, differential, and exhaust system coverage.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (apex seals), coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections/replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, error code interpretation (OBD-I), component testing
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild (rotary specific), transmission overhaul, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair, HVAC system repair
Technical Information:
Torque specifications, clearance specifications, timing procedures, special tool recommendations, diagnostic flowcharts
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostics, troubleshooting trees, wiring diagrams for all electrical components, and fault code interpretation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Rebuild Procedures:
Includes detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including seal replacement and component balancing.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (13B-VDE), Turbocharged Rotary (13B-T)
Engine Displacement:
1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
160-170 hp @ 6,500 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower Turbocharged:
200-210 hp @ 6,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque Turbocharged:
200-210 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Rotary Engine Designation:
13B, featuring twin distributors and sequential fuel injection (S-AFC).
Infotainment System:
Basic analog gauges, cassette player, optional CD player. Manual covers basic audio system troubleshooting.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models, particularly Turbo II.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle systems. Manual details electrical system connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific intervals and types (rotary engines use two spark plugs per rotor).
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification. Mazda recommends specific rotary oil additives for lubrication.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity grade specified in manual (e.g., 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear and housing damage are common with high mileage or improper maintenance. Manual covers rebuild procedures and diagnostics.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume oil for lubrication; ensure proper level is maintained. Manual details oil metering system.
Cooling System:
Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses) is not maintained. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Turbocharged models can experience turbocharger wear or failure if oil maintenance is neglected. Manual covers turbo diagnostics and replacement.
Oil Pump Maintenance:
Regular checks and maintenance of the oil metering pump are crucial for apex seal lubrication. Manual provides detailed inspection and service procedures.
