Mazda RX-8 2003-2012 Workshop Manual

This manual contains detailed instructions for servicing, diagnostics and repair of Mazda RX-8 (2003-2012). Includes wiring diagrams, specifications, disassembly and assembly procedures, and a repair manual for the 13B-MSP Renesis rotary engine. Suitable for owners, mechanics and auto repair shops.

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Engines

1.3L 13B-MSP Renesis (654 cm³ x 2 rotors = 1.3 l)

192 hp (141 kW) – 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic

231 hp (170 kW) – 6-speed manual, increased ports and high compression

1. High oil consumption 🛢️

Problem:

A rotary engine consumes oil by design - this is normal. But if the consumption exceeds 1 l per 1000 km, the seals may be worn out.

Solution:

✅ Check the oil level every 500-1000 km.

✅ Use the right oil (Dexelia 5W-30 or similar).

✅ Add oil through the oil filler neck, not through the tank.

2. Problems starting (especially when hot) 🔥

Problem:

Worn rotor seals → loss of compression.

Starter overheating or weak battery.

Solution:

✅ Measure compression (minimum 6.0 bar, normal - 7-9 bar).

✅ Install an improved starter (2 kW).

✅ Use a powerful battery (at least 600CCA).

✅ If the compression is low, the engine may need a major overhaul.

3. Engine overheating 🌡️

Problem:

Thermostat jamming.

Failure of the fan viscous coupling.

Clogging of the cooling radiator.

Solution:

✅ Check and replace the thermostat (operating temperature is 85-90°C).

✅ Install electric fans instead of the standard viscous coupling.

✅ Flush the radiator and replace the coolant every 2 years.

4. Rapid wear of ignition coils 🔥

Problem:

The original coils burn out every 30-40 thousand km.

This causes misfires, detonation and unstable operation.

Solution:

✅ Change coils every 30-40 thousand km or install updated D585 (LS2) coils.

✅ Check wires and spark plugs (use only NGK BUR9EQ/BUR7EQ iridium spark plugs).

5. Body corrosion 🚘

Problem:

Rust appears on the thresholds, rear arches, trunk lid.

Solution:

✅ Perform anti-corrosion treatment every 2-3 years.

✅ Regularly flush hidden cavities.

6. Gearbox problems (manual and automatic) ⚙️

Problem:

Manual: hard gear shifting, noise when engaging 2nd gear.

Automatic: slipping and impacts when shifting.

Solution:

✅ Change the oil in the gearbox every 40-50 thousand km.

✅ For manual transmissions, use Red Line MT-90 or similar.

✅ For automatic transmissions, use Mazda ATF M-V.

7. Rapid engine wear (80-150 thousand km service life) 🔧

Problem:

Incorrect operation (cold start, driving at low speeds).

Accumulation of carbon deposits in the combustion chambers.

Solution:

✅ Give the engine 7000-9000 rpm every 5000 km (clean carbon deposits).

✅ Use rotor decarbonization (ATF cleaning, special additives).

✅ Do not turn off the engine immediately after short trips to avoid flooding the spark plugs.

Conclusion

Mazda RX-8 is a capricious, but cool car. If it is properly maintained, it will please with reliability and drive. The main thing is regular maintenance of the rotary engine and electrics.