🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-8

Production Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008

Body Styles Covered:

All

Chassis Code:

SE3P

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-8 is a unique sports car celebrated for its rotary engine and balanced chassis. This manual caters to owners and mechanics who require in-depth technical knowledge for maintaining and repairing this distinctive vehicle.

Competitors:

Competed with cars like the Nissan 350Z, Infiniti G35, and Porsche Cayman in its segment, but distinguished itself with its naturally aspirated rotary engine and suicide doors.

Unique Selling Points:

Rotary engine technology (RENESIS), exceptional handling and balance, 4-door coupe design with rear-hinged 'freestyle' doors.

Value:

This manual provides factory-level information, enabling owners to perform complex repairs, understand intricate systems, and maintain the RX-8 effectively, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Rotary (RENESIS - 13B-MSP)

Transmission:

Manual (Aisin AZ6) and Automatic (Mazda 5-speed)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Chassis And Suspension:

Front Double Wishbone, Rear Multi-link

Brakes:

Front and Rear Disc, ABS, EBD, DSC

Electrical System:

Full coverage including wiring diagrams

Body And Interior:

Exterior panels, interior trim, seats, airbags

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Safety Systems:

SRS Airbag System, Seat Belt Systems

Total Pages:

2888+

Type:

Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Primary Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes (unrestricted)

File Structure:

Single-file PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly and reassembly of the RENESIS rotary engine, including apex seals, rotors, housings, oil metering, and lubrication system.

Engine Control System:

ECU diagnostics, sensor functions (Camshaft Position, Knock Sensor, etc.), ignition timing, fuel injection control, SFI system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan system, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing, throttle body assembly.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors, emission control systems.

Drive Shaft And Differential:

Drive shaft removal/installation, U-joints, differential case assembly, axle shafts, fluid specifications.

Clutch System:

Clutch unit, clutch master cylinder, clutch release cylinder, hydraulic lines, clutch pedal adjustment, bleeding procedures.

Brake System:

Brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications and bleeding, brake booster, master cylinder, ABS/DSC component diagnostics.

Steering System:

Power steering system (hydraulic pump, reservoir, lines), steering rack, steering column, steering angle sensor calibration.

Suspension System:

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

Wheel And Tire System:

Tire specifications, wheel torque specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb specifications, troubleshooting.

Instrument Panel And Gauges:

Combination meter, warning lights, diagnostic codes, gauge cluster removal/installation.

Wiper And Washer System:

Wiper motors, wiper blades, washer fluid reservoir, pump, nozzles.

Power Window And Door Lock Systems:

Motor operation, switch diagnostics, central locking system.

Supplemental Restraint System (Srs):

Airbag module removal/installation, airbag control module, seat belt pretensioners, airbag sensor locations and diagnostics.

Audio And Navigation System:

Radio receiver, speaker system, antenna, navigation unit (if applicable).

Climate Control System:

A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, blower motor, control panel.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes (specific to rotary), fluid level checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including common fault codes and symptom analysis.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually any component, from minor sensors to major engine parts and body panels.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension component refurbishment.

Electrical Diagnosis And Repair:

Schematic interpretation, circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, dent repair, rust repair, glass replacement.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Illustrations:

Hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guiding each procedure.

Notes Cautions Warnings:

Critical information pinpointed throughout each chapter.

Instructions Format:

Numbered, step-by-step instructions with bold figure numbers for easy reference.

Electrical Diagrams:

Detailed wiring diagrams integrated with troubleshooting and electrical service procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution, ensuring clear legibility of text and diagrams.

Type:

Digital (PDF) - no physical binding

Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

13B-MSP RENESIS

Displacement:

1.3L (1308cc)

Rotor Design:

Two-rotor

Horsepower Gt:

247 hp @ 8000 rpm (for 6-speed manual GT/GTS)

Horsepower Sport:

212 hp @ 7600 rpm (for 5-speed manual and automatic Sport/Touring)

Torque Gt:

159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (for 6-speed manual GT/GTS)

Torque Sport:

151 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (for 5-speed manual and automatic Sport/Touring)

Injection Type:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Direct Injection (DI) for later models, Port Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Apex Seal Replacement:

Critical procedure covered, indicating potential wear and tear on rotary engines.

Oil Metering System:

Explanation of the oil injection system crucial for apex seal lubrication.

🔧 Transmission

Type Sport:

5-speed Manual (Aisin AZ6)

Type Gt:

6-speed Manual (Aisin AZ6, closer gear ratios)

Type Auto:

5-speed Automatic

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios for both manual transmissions provided.

Fluid Type:

Manual transmission fluid (e.g., Mazda GL-4 SAE 75W-90) and Automatic transmission fluid specifications included.

Service Interval:

Manual recommends inspection and possible change of transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

106.4 inches (2700 mm)

Length:

171.7 inches (4360 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

52.4 inches (1330 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,900-3,050 lbs (1315-1383 kg) depending on trim and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5-star (2004 model year)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on higher trims or optional on others.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on trim).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system available on higher trims, standard CD player with AM/FM radio.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system available on select trims.

Traction Control System:

Standard TCS to manage wheel spin.

Stability Control:

DSC enhances vehicle stability under adverse conditions.

Auxiliary Input:

Auxiliary input jack for portable audio devices available on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, critical for rotary engine longevity. Use of correct oil is vital.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Specific single-electrode plugs for leading and trailing ignition are required.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Consider a performance filter for improved airflow.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. For optimal rotary performance, synthetic oils specifically designed or recommended for rotary engines are highly advised.

Coolant:

Mazda FL22 Engine Coolant or equivalent long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid or Mazda Genuine ATF JWS 3314.

Engine Compression:

Potential for low compression due to apex seal wear, especially if maintenance intervals (particularly oil changes and ensuring proper lubrication) are not strictly followed. Premature oil burning can be an indicator.

Ignition System:

Coil packs and spark plug degradation can occur, impacting performance and fuel economy. Regular replacement is advised.

Oil Consumption:

The RENESIS engine naturally consumes some oil to lubricate the apex seals. Owners should monitor oil levels regularly and top off as needed. Excessive consumption might indicate an issue.

Starter Motor:

Some models experienced starter motor issues, particularly related to heat soak. This manual will detail diagnostic procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda has a long history with rotary engines, notably with the iconic RX-7 series, continuing this legacy with the RX-8.

Introduction:

The RX-8 was introduced as a successor to the RX-7, offering a more practical four-door configuration while retaining the rotary engine's performance characteristics.

Facelift:

Received a facelift for the 2009 model year (outside the scope of this manual), with minor updates to styling and engineering.

Production Period:

2003-2012 (globally), with this manual covering the initial generation from 2003-2008.

Manufacturing Location:

Mazda's plant in Hiroshima, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Allstar Engines:

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

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its performance and handling.