🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-8 Year: 2003 Codes Chassis Code: SE3P 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Sports Car / Rotary Sports Coupe Competitive Analysis Competitors: Nissan 350Z, Toyota Celica GT-S, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT Key Features Distinguishing Feature: Naturally Aspirated Rotary Engine (Renesis), Unique Freestyle Door System Target Audience Audience: Enthusiast owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Workshop Service Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Compatibility: Windows / MacOS 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Rotary (Renesis) Engine - Complete Overhaul, Maintenance, Diagnostics Engine Control: ECU, Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Emission Controls Transmission: Manual (M/T) and Automatic (A/T) Transmissions - Repair, Overhaul, Fluid Specifications Drivetrain: Propeller Shaft, Differential, Axles, Hubs Brakes: Disc Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS, EBD, Parking Brake - Service, Component Replacement, Bleeding Steering: Power Steering System, Steering Gear, Column - Service and Adjustments Suspension: Front & Rear Suspension (Double Wishbone), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings - Diagnostics and Replacement HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning - System Components, Refrigerant, Diagnostics Body: Body Panels, Doors, Locks, Glass, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim - Repair and Adjustment Safety: Airbags, Seatbelts, SRS System - Diagnostics and Service Precautions Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Power Accessories, ECU Pinouts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug (Apex Seal) Replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, OBD-II Diagnostics Repair: Component Disassembly, Reassembly, Calibration, Adjustment Procedures Specifications: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Electrical Resistances, Pressures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Fully searchable text content Print Quality Quality: High resolution, clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary Engine Code: 13B-MSP Renesis Displacement: 1.3L (80 cu in) Rotor Design: Twin Rotor Performance Horsepower Gt: 212 hp @ 7600 rpm (Manual Transmission) Horsepower Sport: 207 hp @ 7600 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Torque Gt: 159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual Transmission) Torque Sport: 154 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Fuel System Injection Type: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SFI) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher) Technical Notes Oil Type: API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II, SAE 5W-30 (Full Synthetic Recommended for Rotary) Oil Capacity: 5.6 US quarts (5.3 liters) Coolant Type: Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Gt: 6-Speed Manual Optional Type Sport: 4-Speed Sport Automatic with Paddle Shifters Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Actuation Transmission Fluid Manual: Mazda GL-4 API 75W-90 Transmission Fluid Automatic: Mazda ATF-MV 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 170.0 in (4315 mm) Width: 70.1 in (1780 mm) Height: 53.1 in (1350 mm) Wheelbase: 106.4 in (2700 mm) Weights Curb Weight Gt: 3055 lbs (1386 kg) Curb Weight Sport: 3109 lbs (1410 kg) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger IIHS Side Impact: Good Active Features ABS: Standard (4-Wheel Disc ABS) Traction Control: Standard Electronic Stability Control: Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control) Passive Features Airbags: Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Side-Impact Airbags Seatbelts: 3-Point with Pretensioners and Load Limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium audio system with CD player and AM/FM radio (optional). Climate Control: Automatic climate control (optional). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Connectivity Keyless Entry: Standard Push Button Start: Standard 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), synthetic oil recommended. Spark Plugs: Refer to manual for specific intervals; specialized rotary spark plugs (long and short) require regular inspection/replacement. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Power Steering Fluid: Mazda Genuine ATF or equivalent Coolant Capacity: 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters) Known Issues Rotary Specific: Apex seal wear, carbon buildup, oil consumption (requires diligent maintenance and proper break-in procedures), potential for hydrolock if oil is low. Common Repairs: Clutch replacement, ignition coil failure, starter motor issues, vacuum hose leaks. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Heritage: Mazda's history of innovative rotary engines dating back to the Cosmo series. Model Evolution Predecessor: Mazda RX-7 (FC and FD generations) Generation: First Generation (2003-2008) Production Production Start: 2003 Manufacturing Plant: Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver 10Best: Included on Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2004.