The Mazda RX-8, produced from 2003 to 2012, is a distinctive compact sports car celebrated for its unique naturally aspirated 13B-MSP Renesis rotary engine, front-midship layout, and rear-wheel drive configuration, which contribute to its balanced 50:50 weight distribution and engaging driving dynamics. Key selling points include its innovative freestyle (suicide) rear doors for enhanced accessibility, a reputation for sharp handling, and a legacy tied to Mazda's long history with rotary engine technology, earning it a place on Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2004 and 2005. This model, chassis code SE3P, offered a captivating blend of performance and practicality, often competing against vehicles like the Nissan 350Z. This comprehensive English-language manual serves as a Full Service & Repair guide, providing detailed information for owners, mechanics, and technicians to maintain and repair the Mazda RX-8. It covers a wide array of systems, including the rotary engine's mechanical aspects, fuel injection, ignition, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, and the complete electrical system. The manual includes step-by-step repair procedures, troubleshooting guides for common issues such as apex seal wear and oil consumption, diagnostic information, and essential technical specifications, ensuring the vehicle remains in optimal condition and performance. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-8 Year: 2004 Codes Chassis Code: SE3P Engine Code: 13B-MSP (Renesis) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Sports Car / Coupe Key Selling Points: Unique rotary engine, balanced chassis, suicide doors, engaging driving dynamics Competitive Analysis Competitors 2004: Nissan 350Z, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though different classes, often cross-shopped for performance) Key Features Engine Technology: Naturally aspirated 13B-MSP Renesis rotary engine Chassis Design: Front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution Door Configuration: Unique freestyle (suicide) rear doors for enhanced accessibility 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service & Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Delivery Method: Instant Download Printability: Full Printable Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for decompression) Operating System Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Rotary engine (Renesis) disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, ECU, sensor diagnostics Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch system, gearbox diagnostics Drivetrain: Driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, steering column Brakes: Brake system (front and rear), ABS, EBD, brake fluid, components Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, accessories Climate Control: HVAC system, A/C, heating, ventilation Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, structural components Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), systematic problem diagnosis Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems Rebuilding: Rotary engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul Refurbishment: Procedures for restoring worn or damaged components Restoration: Guidance for bringing a vehicle back to its original condition Specifications: Torque specifications, measurements, tolerances for all repair procedures Technical Depth Depth: Professional Technician Level - Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Clarity: High-resolution, clear text and images for easy reading and printing Binding Type Binding: Digital (downloadable, printable pages) Paper Type Digital Equivalent: Printable pages suitable for standard paper ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Rotary (Wankel) Engine Model: 13B-MSP Renesis Displacement: 1.3 L (2 x 0.654 L housings) Performance Horsepower Std Trim: 210 hp @ 8200 RPM (for manual transmission models) Horsepower Sport Trim: 238 hp @ 8200 RPM (for manual transmission models) Torque Std Trim: 159 lb-ft @ 5500 RPM Torque Sport Trim: 159 lb-ft @ 5500 RPM Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Port Fuel Injection (sequential) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended, 91 octane or higher) Oil Type: Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant) - Crucial for rotary engines Oil Capacity: Approximately 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter change Apex Seal Lubrication: Requires specific oil injection system (often supplemented with premixing for longevity) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 6-speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Twin-Plate Clutch (for some higher-performance variants or options) Transmission Fluid Manual: Mazda GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent high-quality synthetic gear oil) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Mazda ATF-Type M-III or equivalent 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.3 inches (4,427 mm) Width: 69.1 inches (1,755 mm) Height: 53.0 inches (1,345 mm) Wheelbase: 106.4 inches (2,700 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3,000-3,050 lbs (1,361-1,383 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 3,050-3,150 lbs (1,383-1,429 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 7.6 cubic feet (0.215 m³) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star NHTSA Side Impact: 5-Star Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Ebd: Standard Electronic Brakeforce...