Market Segment:
High-performance sports car, halo vehicle for Mazda.
Competitors 1996:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mitsubishi 3000GT, Porsche 968, Chevrolet Corvette (C4).
Design Philosophy:
'Spirit of Driving' - lightweight, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit, advanced rotary engine technology.
Aerodynamics:
Sleek, flowing lines designed for aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speeds.
Handling:
Renowned for its exceptional handling characteristics due to near 50/50 weight distribution and sophisticated suspension.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair of the 13B-REW twin-rotor rotary engine.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor readings, fuel injection control, ignition timing, emissions control systems, sequential twin-turbo operation.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the R154 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system, flywheel, driveshaft, and differential.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid replacement, caliper and rotor service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, wheel alignment specifications, power steering system.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, battery and charging system, starter motor, alternator, lighting systems, power accessories, instrument cluster.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation, coolant capacity and specifications.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator), heater core, climate control unit, cabin air filter.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control (EVAP).
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, timing belt (or equivalent) inspection/replacement, fluid flushes, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and diagnostic tool usage.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and other critical data.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics.
Depth:
Complete rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and major mechanical components.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced electronic diagnostics, including sensor data interpretation and ECU parameter adjustments.
Emissions Control:
Detailed information on the rotary engine's emissions control systems, including EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and secondary air injection.
Rotary Specifics:
In-depth coverage of rotary engine apex seals, side seals, corner seals, rotor housing wear, and lubrication specific to rotary engines.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Rotary engines require specific oil viscosity and quality.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific intervals, usually related to kilometers or years, requires specific type and gap.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for precise API/ILSAC rating and viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 5W-30, specifically designed for rotary engines or high-performance applications).
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specified gear oil type and viscosity (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5, with specific specifications).
Coolant:
Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, with a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity typically around 8.5 quarts.
Apex Seal Wear:
Potential for apex seal wear over time, especially with improper maintenance or overheating. Diagnosis often involves a compression test.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication. Monitor oil levels closely.
Emissions System:
Secondary air injection system and EGR can be prone to carbon buildup and failure, affecting emissions and performance.
Sequential Turbo Issues:
Failures in the turbo control solenoids or vacuum lines for the sequential turbo system can lead to loss of boost or improper turbo operation.
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's long-standing commitment and pioneering development of the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo series.
Rx7 Generations:
First Generation (SA/FB), Second Generation (FC), Third Generation (FD) - the FD represents a significant leap in design, technology, and performance.
Fd Production Years:
1992-2002 (Japan), 1993-1995 (North America), 1996-2002 (other global markets with updates).
Design Influence:
Influenced by global supercar design trends of the late 1980s and early 1990s, with input from designers like Richard Slepecki.