Market Position:
The Mazda RX-8 was positioned as a unique, performance-oriented sports coupe with a rotary engine, offering practicality with its four doors and suicide rear doors.
Competitors:
Competed against other sports coupes and performance sedans, though its rotary engine offered a distinct alternative to traditional piston engines. Key competitors included Nissan 350Z, Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and some premium German sports sedans.
Key Features:
Renowned for its high-revving rotary engine, balanced chassis, precise handling, unique 'freestyle' door system, and distinctive styling. This manual provides the in-depth knowledge required to maintain and repair this innovative vehicle.
Engine System:
Rotary engine (Renesis) theory, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, diagnostics
Transmission System:
Manual (JA5A-EL, RE2/RE3) and Automatic (FN4A-EL) transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain System:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings, service and repair
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications, troubleshooting
Brake System:
Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS, DSC, parking brake, hydraulic system, component replacement, bleeding procedures
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, linkages, diagnosis and repair
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, repair procedures
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, components, diagnosis, repair
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system components, diagnostics, pre-tensioners
Infotainment System:
Audio system, navigation (if equipped), speaker replacement, wiring, troubleshooting
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, belt inspection/replacement, ignition coil checks
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine rebuild (rotary specific), transmission overhaul, differential rebuild
Diagnostic Procedures:
Use of scan tools, multimeter testing, live data interpretation, specific diagnostic flowcharts
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical schematics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
13B-MSP Renesis
Displacement:
1.3 L (654 cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Gt:
Approx. 232 hp @ 8200 RPM (GT trim, 6-port)
Horsepower Base:
Approx. 212 hp @ 7400 RPM (Base trim, 4-port)
Torque Gt:
Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 7500 RPM (GT trim, 6-port)
Torque Base:
Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 7000 RPM (Base trim, 4-port)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (S-EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended, 91 octane or higher)
Oil Type Spec:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II or GF-III, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) (check manual for exact specification)
Ignition Type:
Direct Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug for each apex seal housing.
Apex Seals:
Crucial wear component requiring proper lubrication and engine management. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Oil Metering Pump:
Injects oil into the combustion chambers for apex seal lubrication. Manual covers calibration and diagnosis.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (RE2/RE3)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission (FN4A-EL) with Paddle Shifters (on some trims/years)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios provided in manual for both transmissions, crucial for performance tuning.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification, some may specify different weights or types)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type M-III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, but dependent on driving conditions and oil used. Check manual for specifics.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval (often around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition). Crucial for rotary engine health.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect regularly, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles or when dirty).
Coolant Replacement:
Check manual for specified interval (e.g., every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Mazda genuine power steering fluid or DEXRON III ATF (check manual for exact specification).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Proprietary Mazda fluid or suitable washer fluid additive.
Engine Apex Seal Wear:
Potential for apex seal wear leading to low compression, especially with infrequent oil changes or improper warm-up/cool-down procedures. Manual details compression testing and rebuild procedures.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Can be susceptible to failure due to oil consumption and unburned fuel. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume oil for lubrication. Regular checks and top-offs are critical. Manual explains the oil metering system.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Ignition coils can fail, impacting engine performance. Manual provides testing procedures.
Water Pump Leaks:
Early models may be prone to water pump seal leaks. Manual offers replacement guides.
