Market Position:
The Mazda RX-8 was positioned as a unique, performance-oriented sports coupe, differentiating itself with its rotary engine and distinctive 'freestyle' doors. It targeted enthusiasts seeking a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against a range of sports cars and performance coupes, including the Nissan 350Z, BMW 3 Series Coupe, and Mitsubishi Eclipse. Its primary differentiator was the naturally aspirated Renesis rotary engine and its practicality (four seats).
Key Features:
Naturally aspirated Renesis rotary engine, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, unique 'freestyle' rear-opening doors for easier rear seat access, sport-tuned suspension, high-revving engine characteristic.
Model Years Covered:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (comprehensive service manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Repair Service Manual
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (Renesis), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, starting, emission control, engine mechanical
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Aisin RWD), Automatic transmission (optional), driveline, clutch
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body electronics, engine control module (ECM), transmission control module (TCM)
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC, safety systems (airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant service, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring harness testing, component testing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and component specifications.
Engine Type:
Mazda Renesis (13B-MSP) Rotary
Engine Configuration:
Two-rotor, naturally aspirated, peripheral port intake
Displacement:
1.3 L (79.7 cu in)
Horsepower Gt Base Model:
232 hp @ 8200 rpm (for 6-speed manual transmission models)
Horsepower Gt Shinka And Automatic:
212 hp @ 7600 rpm (for automatic transmission and Shinka models)
Torque:
159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (for 6-speed manual transmission models)
Fuel System:
Electronic Port Fuel Injection (sequential)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
ECM (Engine Control Module) with direct ignition system
Apex Seals:
Three-piece carbon-infused seals (critical wear component)
Lubrication:
Integrated oil metering pump (RE-ASR) for 2-stroke oil injection, separate engine oil sump
Standard Transmission:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Aisin AY6)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (Aisin 63LE)
Manual Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearing, short-throw shifter
Automatic Transmission Features:
Paddle shifters (on some models), sport mode
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Differential Type:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on most manual transmission models
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear:
4-Star
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable
Active Safety Features:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, advanced impact-absorbing body structure
Infotainment System:
Mazda's E-Class audio system with CD player. Higher trims offered optional Bose premium audio system and navigation (later models).
Display:
Central multi-information display, some models featured a color LCD for navigation and climate control.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, optional traction control (TCS) and stability control (DSC).
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack (later models), optional Bluetooth hands-free system (specific trims/years).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Rotary Oil Injection:
Regularly check and refill the dedicated 2-stroke oil reservoir (specific interval varies by driving style, but typically every few thousand miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 30,000 miles (48,000 km). The RX-8 uses a unique dual-plug system (one leading, one trailing per rotor housing) requiring specific spark plug types.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Inspect at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change if needed. Mazda recommends a specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., Mazda GL-5 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Change every 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Use specified ATF (e.g., Dexron III/VI compatible).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compatible)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.6 US quarts (5.3 L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT antifreeze
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/VI ATF or equivalent
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear (premature engine failure if not properly maintained), flooding (engine won't start due to fuel accumulation in combustion chambers), oil consumption (inherent to rotary design, requires monitoring), coolant seal failure (can lead to overheating and engine damage), starter motor issues, catalytic converter failure.
Maintenance Importance:
Critical to follow specific rotary engine maintenance procedures diligently, including regular oil checks, proper warm-up/cool-down cycles, and using the correct fluids and spark plugs to prolong engine life.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing sporty and driver-focused vehicles, including iconic models like the RX-7 and Miata. The rotary engine technology, pioneered by Wankel and perfected by Mazda, is a significant part of their unique automotive identity.
Model Evolution:
The RX-8 succeeded the RX-7 (FD generation). It was designed to be a more practical and accessible sports car, featuring four seats and the innovative 'freestyle' door system. It went through minor cosmetic updates and powertrain refinements during its production run.
Production Years:
2003-2011
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hiroshima plant, Japan
Total Production Units:
Approx. 192,094 units worldwide
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for its debut year (2004) and 2005.
World Car Of The Year:
Nominated for World Car of the Year.
User Reviews:
Generally praised for its handling, unique styling, and engaging driving experience, but often cited for its specific maintenance requirements and oil consumption.
