The Mazda RX-8, produced from 2003 to 2012 with a significant facelift in 2006, stands as a unique compact sports car celebrated for its innovative Renesis rotary engine, balanced chassis, and distinctive suicide rear doors. This rear-wheel-drive coupe offered a sporty handling experience and a high-revving engine, placing it among competitors like the Nissan 350Z and Ford Mustang V6. Its engineering quality is underscored by its consistent recognition, including being named to Car and Driver's 10Best list. The 2006 model, chassis code SE3P, exemplifies Mazda's commitment to performance and driving dynamics, making it a sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts. This comprehensive service and repair manual provides detailed guidance for the Mazda RX-8 (SE3P) from 2006. Its scope covers all major systems, including the intricacies of the Renesis rotary engine, manual and automatic transmissions, suspension, steering, braking, and electrical systems. The manual details scheduled maintenance, fluid specifications, and specific repair procedures, addressing potential issues like carbon buildup and apex seal wear with expert advice. It is an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians, offering in-depth troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, and technical specifications to ensure the proper maintenance and repair of this distinctive sports car. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-8 Year: 2006 Codes Chassis Code: SE3P 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Sports Car / Coupe Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2006: Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Ford Mustang V6, Chevrolet Corvette (lower trims), Subaru Impreza WRX Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Rotary engine, balanced chassis, suicide rear doors, sporty handling 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Scope: Full Service Repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Renesis Rotary Engine (Wankel), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, rotary specific maintenance Transmission Systems: Manual Transmission (M/T), Automatic Transmission (A/T), clutch system, driveline, axles Chassis Systems: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD, DSC), wheel alignment Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, instrumentation, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), HVAC controls, audio system, airbags (SRS) Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, climate control, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (rotary specific), fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections Repair Procedures: Engine rebuilds (rotary apex seals, housings), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics Technical Depth Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostics, including detailed wiring diagrams and component testing procedures Rebuild Capability: Comprehensive rebuild procedures for major components, including the Renesis rotary engine Documentation Style: Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations, enlarged insets 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Details: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Print Quality: Full Printable (High resolution for clear printing) Binding Type Binding Type: Digital (Downloadable PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) Delivery Method Delivery: Instant Download Software Requirements Reader Requirement: Adobe PDF Reader Extraction Tool: WinRAR (or similar decompression utility) Compatibility Operating Systems: All Versions of Windows & Mac ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel) Engine Code: 13B-MSP Renesis Displacement: 1.3 L (654 cc x 2 rotors) Performance Horsepower 2006 Gt: 232 hp @ 8200 rpm (Manual Transmission) Horsepower 2006 Sport: 212 hp @ 7600 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Torque 2006 Gt: 159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual Transmission) Torque 2006 Sport: 151 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), sequential port injection Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Rotary Specifics Oil Consumption: Normal and expected; requires regular oil checks and top-ups as part of maintenance. Compression Testing: Requires specialized rotary compression test equipment and procedures, covered in detail. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Base: 6-speed Manual Transmission (M/T) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Sport Mode Features Transmission Fluid Spec Manual: Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (Refer to manual for specific part numbers) Transmission Fluid Spec Auto: Mazda ATF J3 (Refer to manual for specific part numbers) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.6 in (4435 mm) Width: 69.1 in (1755 mm) Height: 52.8 in (1340 mm) Wheelbase: 106.4 in (2700 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approximately 3000-3070 lbs (1360-1395 kg) Curb Weight Auto: Approximately 3035-3115 lbs (1375-1415 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star (Driver and Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Good Active Features Electronic Stability Control: Standard (Dynamic Stability Control - DSC) Traction Control: Standard (Traction Control System - TCS) Anti Lock Brakes: Standard (ABS) Brake Assist: Standard (EBD - Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear curtain airbags...