🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-8 Year: 2004 Generation Generation Designation: First Generation (SE3P) Codes Chassis Code: SE3P 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Sports Car / Grand Tourer Key Selling Proposition: Rotary engine technology, unique 'freestyle' doors, balanced chassis, sporty driving dynamics Competitive Analysis Primary Competitors: Nissan 350Z, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (in performance variants) Key Features Rotary Engine Advantage: High revving, compact size, smooth power delivery (but requires specialized maintenance) Unique Door Design: Freestyle doors (suicide-style rear doors) for improved rear-seat access 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: All models and all repairs A-Z Target Audience: Dealership Technicians Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2000+ Manual Type Manual Category: Service and Repair Manual Language Primary Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF (typically, for this era and business model) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Rotary Engine (RENESIS), Drivetrain, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Differential Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, EBD), Wheel & Tire Specifications Electrical: Engine Control System, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer System Body: Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System Components Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Explanations, Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams, Scan Tool Procedures Repair: Engine Rebuilds (apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair Special Procedures: Rotary Engine Specifics (decompression testing, lubrication system), ECU Reset Procedures, Immobilizer Key Programming, Airbag System Service Precautions Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds) Data Granularity: Detailed torque specifications, measurement tolerances, diagnostic parameter ranges 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Details: Searchable PDF, Bookmarked Chapters, Printable Pages Print Quality Print Quality Description: High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams (assuming a high-quality reproduction) Binding Type Binding Type Description: Digital PDF (No physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type Description: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: RENESIS (13B-MSP) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel) Displacement: 1.3L (2 x 0.65L rotors) Rotor Housing Material: Chrome-plated steel or similar advanced alloy Performance Horsepower Gt: 245 hp @ 8,200 rpm Torque Gt: 211 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Horsepower Sport: 238 hp @ 8,200 rpm Torque Sport: 209 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Induction: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Oil Type Recommendation: API SN or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Crucial for Apex Seal Lubrication) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 6-Speed 'Activematic' Automatic (with Paddle Shifters) Features Gear Ratios Manual: Specific ratios for each gear (detailed in manual, e.g., 1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.39, 3rd: 1.77, 4th: 1.32, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.78) Transmission Fluid Spec Manual: Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic (or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic: Mazda ATF-MV (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 106.4 inches (2700 mm) Length: 175.6 inches (4460 mm) Width: 69.1 inches (1755 mm) Height: 53.0 inches (1345 mm) Interior Seating Capacity: 4 (2+2 configuration) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,000 - 3,150 lbs (1361 - 1430 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Rating: ★★★★★ (5-Star) IIHS Side Crash Rating: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features Braking System: Power-assisted disc brakes (front ventilated, rear solid or ventilated), ABS, EBD Traction Control: TCS (Traction Control System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) - often standard on GT models Passive Features Airbag System: Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on trim), Curtain airbags (optional) Seatbelts: 3-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Mazda AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio system Climate Control: Manual or automatic climate control with cabin air filter Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims Keyless Entry: Standard on most trims Connectivity Bluetooth: Not standard on 2004 models, potentially available as an aftermarket upgrade. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (highly recommended for rotary longevity) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (special ignition plugs required) Coolant Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years Fluid Specifications Engine Coolant Type: Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent blue silicate-free) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid Type: Dexron III ATF or equivalent Known Issues Rotary Engine Apex Seals: Wear and failure of apex seals, leading to compression loss and poor running. Requires regular oil checks and proper engine warm-up/cool-down. Ignition System: Coil pack failures and fouled spark plugs due to the nature of rotary combustion. Oil Consumption: Rotary engines naturally consume oil for lubrication; monitoring and topping up is essential....