Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional automotive technicians
Value Proposition:
Cost-effective alternative to professional repair services, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves.
Ease Of Use:
Easy-to-read text, clear diagrams, step-by-step instructions, numbered content for quick navigation.
Visual Aid Quality:
Hundreds of high-quality photos, illustrations, detailed exploded pictures, and enlarged insets for precise part identification.
Information Structure:
Notes, cautions, and warnings pinpoint critical information; bold figure numbers link text to illustrations.
Electrical Coverage:
Detailed electrical service procedures and wiring diagrams integrated with troubleshooting.
Powertrain Systems:
Engine Mechanical (Rotary), Cooling System, Starting System, Ignition System, Emission Controls, Engine Controls, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Steering System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery & Charging System, Lighting System, Instrumentation & Warning Systems, Audio Systems, Body Electrical (Power Windows, Locks, Mirrors), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and related sensors/actuators
Body Systems:
Body Interior, Body Exterior, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting, fault diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major components and systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Complete factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers, including detailed exploded views, diagrams, and photos.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Renesis)
Horsepower 230Hp Variant:
238 hp @ 8,200 rpm (approx. for Sport/Grand Touring trims with Manual Transmission)
Horsepower 212Hp Variant:
212 hp @ 7,600 rpm (approx. for Sport Automatic trims)
Torque:
159 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm (approx. for 238hp variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (S-MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models with optional side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional front side airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with specific considerations for rotary engines.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; crucial for rotary engine health, often recommended at 30,000-50,000 mile intervals, depending on plug type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; typically 5W-30 synthetic oil, crucial for rotary engine lubrication and apex seal health.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific Mazda specifications).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-type T-IV or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Apex Seal Wear:
A common concern with rotary engines, requiring regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures.
Ignition Coils:
Can be a failure point, leading to misfires and rough running.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume some oil, but excessive consumption can indicate seal issues.
Carbon Buildup:
Can occur in rotary engines, especially with short trips, potentially requiring decarb services.
Rotary Legacy:
Continuation of Mazda's long-standing tradition and expertise in developing and producing rotary engine vehicles.
Introduction Year:
2003 (as a 2004 model year)
Design Philosophy:
Four-door sports coupe with unique freestyle doors (suicide doors) for rear-seat access.
Production Period:
2003-2012 (Manual covers 2003-2008)
Key Markets:
North America, Europe, Japan, Australia