🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1989

Generation Code:

FC

Chassis Code:

FC3S

Engine Code:

13B

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Aspiration:

Turbocharged

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Sports Car / Grand Tourer

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicle with unique rotary engine technology.

Competitors 1989:

Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird (with V8 options)

Rotary Engine:

Unique Wankel rotary engine delivering smooth power delivery and high-revving capability.

Handling:

Well-balanced chassis, independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive providing exceptional handling dynamics.

Styling:

Sleek, aerodynamic coupe bodywork, characteristic of Japanese sports cars of the era.

Turbocharging:

The 13B turbo provides a significant boost in performance over naturally aspirated models.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (PDF)

Scope:

Comprehensive professional repair and maintenance

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

13B Rotary Engine (including Apex Seals, Rotor Housings, Eccentric Shaft, lubrication systems, cooling systems, ignition systems, fuel injection systems, turbocharger system, emissions control systems)

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (FS5W71C), Automatic Transmission (optional), Drivetrain (driveshafts, differential)

Suspension:

Front Independent (strut type), Rear Independent (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs, ABS System, hydraulic components, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures

Steering:

Power Rack and Pinion, steering column, tie rods, pump maintenance

Electrical:

Battery, alternator, starter, ignition switch, lighting system, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU diagnosis

Fuel:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control (catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP)

Cooling:

Radiator, coolant reservoir, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan system

Bodywork:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid top-offs, belt inspections

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild, apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, bearing replacement, timing adjustments

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission fluid changes, gear inspection, seal replacement

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleed

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, wheel alignment

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting starting and charging issues, diagnosing sensor failures, interpreting wiring diagrams

Fuel System Diagnosis:

Fuel injector testing, fuel pressure testing, diagnosing fuel delivery issues

Turbocharger Service:

Turbocharger inspection, seal replacement, wastegate adjustment

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., engine misfire, poor performance, starting issues)

Lubrication System Service:

Oil pump inspection, oil cooler service, apex seal lubrication specific procedures

Depth:

Full mechanical and electrical system repair, including diagnostics and component-level troubleshooting, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Resolution:

High-resolution scans/digital creation for clarity

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

13B

Engine Configuration:

Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary

Displacement Cc:

1308

Displacement Ci:

80

Horsepower Hp:

182

Horsepower Kw:

136

Torque Lb Ft:

183

Torque Nm:

248

Redline Rpm:

7500

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with twin ignition coils per rotor

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual (FS5W71C)

Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Drive:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4375

Width Mm:

1715

Height Mm:

1295

Wheelbase Mm:

2500

Curb Weight Kg:

1320

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Not rated (era specific)

IIHS Side Impact:

Not rated (era specific)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag (standard on most models)

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD player integration on later models.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System for enhanced braking control.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control for highway driving.

Original Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific rotary oil recommendations.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Platinum-tipped plugs recommended, replace every 30,000-60,000 miles. Specific rotary plug types are crucial.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or higher, Viscosity SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific rotary engine oil requirements, often a specific blend is advised).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Apex Seals:

Wear and failure of apex seals is a common concern with high-mileage rotary engines, leading to compression loss and poor performance. Regular oil changes and proper engine warm-up are crucial.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil, which is injected into the combustion chamber to lubricate seals. However, excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.

Turbo System:

Oil leaks, wastegate issues, and turbocharger bearing wear can occur with age and mileage.

Engine Mounts:

Rubber engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Development:

Mazda's long history and commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo.

Rx7 Generations:

The FC generation (1985-1992) followed the SA22C/FB generation and preceded the FD generation. This generation marked a significant evolution in styling, performance, and technology.

Fc Facelift:

The 1989 model year represents the updated FC, often referred to as Series 5 in Japan, but the 'S4 Turbocharged 13B' designation likely refers to the Series 4 Turbocharged variant common in export markets.

Production Years:

1985-1992 (FC Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The RX-7 (FC generation) was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times in the late 1980s.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

While not specifically awarded for the 1989 model year, the FC generation contributed to Mazda's growing reputation in performance automotive journalism.