🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-8

Production Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code Primary:

13B-MSP Renesis

Chassis Code:

SE3P

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact sports car with a unique rotary engine, targeting enthusiasts and those seeking a distinctive driving experience.

Unique Selling Proposition:

High-revving, naturally aspirated rotary engine, balanced chassis, distinctive freestyle doors.

Key Competitors:

Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Subaru BRZ (later model), Toyota GT86 (later model).

Manual Purpose:

To provide technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the authoritative information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mazda RX-8.

Manual Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific, dealership-grade information, identical to what factory technicians use.

Ease Of Use:

Digital format allows for easy searching, printing of specific sections, and portability.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance

Engine Coverage:

Engine overhaul and rebuilding, engine performance, firing orders

Drivetrain Coverage:

Transmission removal and installation, transmission in-car servicing, U-joint and CV-joint service

Chassis Coverage:

Brakes, suspension, front-end alignment procedures and specifications

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, computer diagnostic trouble codes, computer diagnostic trouble tree charts

Comfort And Convenience:

Sunroof service, air conditioning service and capacities

Maintenance:

Factory maintenance schedules and charts, serpentine belt routings with diagrams, timing belt service procedures (Note: RX-8 uses a timing chain, but the manual may cover related systems or potential confusion areas.)

Troubleshooting:

Trouble codes, troubleshooting and diagnostics, driving concerns

Total Pages:

> 3000

Type:

Complete Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Zoom Functionality:

YES

Searchability:

Implied by PDF format and comprehensive nature

Printability:

All pages are printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine performance, ignition timing, fuel injection, emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) specific to the Renesis rotary engine.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant capacities and specifications.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil capacities and specifications, lubrication of apex seals, oil metering system.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, O2 sensors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearbox internal components, shift linkage, transmission fluid type and capacity.

Transmission Automatic:

Shift control, torque converter, transmission fluid type and capacity.

Suspension Front:

Double wishbone design, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe).

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link design, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering column.

Brake System Front:

Disc brakes, caliper, rotor, brake pads, ABS components.

Brake System Rear:

Disc brakes, caliper, rotor, brake pads, ABS components, parking brake mechanism.

Wheel And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire sizes, recommended pressures, wheel bolt pattern.

Body Exterior:

Door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, exterior trim, sunroof operation and repair.

Body Interior:

Seat mechanisms, dashboard, interior trim panels, airbags (SRS), climate control system components.

Electrical System Powertrain:

Engine control unit (ECU), ignition system, fuel injection system, sensor inputs/outputs.

Electrical System Chassis:

Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, central locking system.

Electrical System Accessories:

Audio system, navigation system (if applicable), air conditioning controls.

Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - DSC), airbags (Supplemental Restraint System - SRS).

Engine Rebuilding:

Complete engine disassembly, component inspection, seal replacement, reassembly, and initial startup procedures for the Renesis rotary engine.

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (specific rotary plugs), fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

Reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic scan tools, troubleshooting specific system faults, using diagnostic flowcharts and trouble trees.

Repair Tasks:

Component replacement (e.g., alternators, starters, sensors), brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, suspension component replacement, minor bodywork repairs.

Alignment:

Front and rear wheel alignment procedures, camber, caster, and toe adjustments, specific alignment specifications for the RX-8.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid change, filter replacement (automatic), clutch adjustment/replacement (manual), transmission mounting and removal.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Following wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults, testing circuits, component testing.

Ac Service:

Refrigerant recharge, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), system evacuation and charging.

Special Procedures:

Apex seal inspection and potential replacement (though often a full engine rebuild scenario), specific rotary engine lubrication system maintenance.

Depth:

Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilding and complex diagnostics. Factory-level technical information.

Diagnostic Tools:

References to specific diagnostic scan tools and procedures for interpreting fault codes and live data.

Specifications:

Complete torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, measurement data for critical components.

Illustrations:

Hundreds of illustrations, diagrams, and schematics to aid in repair and understanding.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

File Type:

Searchable and fully navigable

Print Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing clear diagrams and text.

Print Features:

Print specific pages or entire sections, enlarge images for detail.

Binding:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

13B-MSP Renesis

Engine Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel) with two rotors

Displacement:

1.3 L (80 cu in), effectively 2.6 L equivalent due to rotary cycle

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 210-238 hp (depending on model year and specific variant, e.g., Sport/Grand Touring vs. Shinka)

Torque Range:

Approx. 159-160 lb-ft

Redline:

Around 9,000 RPM

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Injection System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection and direct injection in later models.

Oil Type:

Specific rotary engine oil (e.g., API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, check manual for exact spec), often requires a 2-stroke oil injection system for lubrication.

Ignition System:

Direct ignition system with spark plugs in side exhaust ports and combustion chamber.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios available in the manual for specific models/years.

Automatic Features:

Paddle shifters, adaptive shift control.

Manual Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for exact specification and capacity).

Automatic Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF JWS3309 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification and capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4430 mm (174.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1500 kg (3197-3307 lbs), depending on trim and transmission.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and front passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

Electronic Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Antilock Brakes:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, optional front and rear curtain airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with premium Bose audio system available on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on select models/trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, but the manual will specify exact intervals and conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Specific intervals for rotary plugs are critical for engine health; refer to manual for exact mileage/time.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check at regular intervals, replace as needed based on driving conditions.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Engine Oil Grade:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher, check manual for exact specification and condition-based recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Mazda coolant (FL22 or equivalent long-life antifreeze/coolant).

Apex Seal Wear:

A common concern with rotary engines, requiring diligent maintenance, proper warm-up/cool-down, and correct oil levels. This manual provides procedures for addressing this.

Catalytic Converter Failure:

Can occur due to engine issues or improper fuel/oil use.

Ignition Coil Failure:

Premature failure can lead to misfires and rough running.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume oil for lubrication; proper monitoring and topping up are essential.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda has a long and storied history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo and RX-7 series, known for its smooth operation, high-revving nature, and compact size.

Rx8 Introduction:

The RX-8 was introduced as the successor to the RX-7, aiming for a more practical yet still performance-oriented sports car with unique styling and the signature rotary powerplant.

Design Innovations:

The 'freestyle' door system (suicide doors for rear passengers) was a notable design feature for a sports coupe.

Production Period:

2003-2012 (This manual covers the initial production years 2003-2008)

Manufacturing Location:

Mazda's Hiroshima plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Best Engine 2004:

The Renesis rotary engine was awarded a Wards 10 Best Engines in 2004.

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2003 and 2004.