Positioning:
Performance-oriented sports coupe, unique rotary engine offering.
Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Porsche Cayman, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Naturally aspirated rotary engine (RENESIS) with high-revving characteristics and unique exhaust note; suicide rear doors for enhanced accessibility.
Platform:
Mazda's FK platform, featuring near 50/50 weight distribution.
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive coverage including rotary engine (RENESIS) teardown, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, and apex seal inspection/replacement.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, sensor diagnostics, ECU testing, emissions control systems, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission:
Manual (Type-R) and Automatic transmission removal, installation, overhaul, clutch system, torque converter, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings, and hub assembly maintenance and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component identification, replacement, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump, rack and pinion, steering column, and tie rod ends.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system diagnosis and components, parking brake.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box locations, relays, and component testing.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and climate control unit.
Body:
Exterior panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass replacement, and interior trim panels.
Chassis:
Frame and unibody structure, rust prevention, and corrosion protection measures.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement (rotary specific), ignition coil testing.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams for tracing electrical faults, sensor data interpretation.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance measurements, engine compression testing procedures, wheel alignment angles.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Accuracy:
High accuracy, directly mirroring factory service information.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Engine Name:
RENESIS (13B-MSP)
Displacement:
1.3 L (Dual Rotor)
Rotor Housing Dimensions:
Approx. 70mm eccentric shaft throw, 105mm rotor width.
Horsepower Base:
212 hp @ 8000 rpm (Manual Transmission)
Horsepower Sport:
238 hp @ 8200 rpm (Manual Transmission - later models/Sport trim)
Torque Base:
159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual Transmission)
Torque Sport:
163 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual Transmission - later models/Sport trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (S-MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil System:
Unique rotary oil injection system (premix often recommended by enthusiasts); requires specific rotary engine oil.
Compression Type:
Rotary (Apex Seals create compression)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags Front:
Standard Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard Side-Impact Airbags (front and rear seats in some configurations)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Crucial for rotary engines).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (Specific rotary plugs required).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II, or JASO MA certified rotary engine oil (e.g., Mazda RX-8 Special Oil). Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature wear of apex seals is a known concern, often exacerbated by poor maintenance or improper break-in procedures. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Carbon Buildup:
Can occur in exhaust ports and leading plugs due to incomplete combustion, especially with short trips. Manual covers cleaning procedures.
Ignition System:
Coil pack failure and spark plug fouling can be issues. Manual covers testing and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines consume oil by design for lubrication; monitoring and topping up is critical. Manual details specific procedures.
