Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications, troubleshooting wheel bearing noise.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, EPS (Electric Power Steering) system diagnostics and service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, brake caliper overhaul, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories, horn, wipers, instrumentation, fuses, relays, battery maintenance, starter motor, alternator.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, body repair procedures, corrosion protection, chassis specifications.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, climate control, refrigerant charging, cabin filter replacement, blower motor service.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, sunroof operation, seat adjustment mechanisms, interior lighting.
Pressurized liquid cooling system, specific Mazda FL22 coolant recommended.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda MZR)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (Mazda FW6A-EL)
Features
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate clutch (manual transmission)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific Mazda part number/spec).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF Type F or equivalent (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.6 inches (4435 mm)
Width:
69.5 inches (1765 mm)
Height:
53.1 inches (1350 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.4 inches (2700 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size:
Typically 18x8 inches (optional 19-inch wheels on some trims)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3150 lbs (1360-1430 kg), varies by trim and transmission.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-star (2009 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star (2009 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2009 model year)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system available on higher trims, multi-speaker CD/MP3 player.
Navigation:
Optional in-dash navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack available on many models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty may require more frequent changes).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-40,000 miles, using specific 'long-life' plugs for rotary engines.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles for FL22 coolant.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-II/GF-III, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to owner's manual for exact spec).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual).
Coolant Specification:
Mazda FL22 Antifreeze/Coolant (Long Life).
Known Issues
Rotary Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals can lead to compression loss, misfires, and poor performance. Requires specialized knowledge for diagnosis and repair.
Ignition Coils:
Premature failure of ignition coils and spark plugs is a common concern.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their design (for lubrication of seals). High oil consumption can indicate seal wear or maintenance issues.
Carbon Buildup:
Carbon deposits can accumulate in the rotor housings, leading to starting issues and performance degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo and RX-7 series.
Model Evolution
Rx-8 Generation:
Second generation RX-7 successor, launched globally in 2003.
2009 Updates:
Facelift model (Series 2) introduced for 2009, featuring revised exterior styling (bumpers, headlights, taillights), interior updates, and suspension tuning.
Production
Production Period:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Ward S 10 Best Engines:
RENESIS engine was recognized by Ward's as one of the 10 Best Engines in 2003.