Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2007 Mazda RX8 2RTR-1.3LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Battery
BATTERY INSPECTION
WARNING:
- Since battery acid is toxic, be careful when handling the battery.
- Since battery acid is highly corrosive, be careful not to allow it to contact clothing or the vehicle.
- In case battery acid contacts skin, eyes, or clothing, flush it immediately with running water. Especially if the acid gets in the eyes, flush with water for more than 15 min and get prompt medical attention.
Electrolyte specific gravity
1. Measure the electrolyte specific gravity using a hydrometer.
- If it is less than the specification, recharge the battery. (See BATTERY RECHARGING.)
Battery electrolyte specific gravity: [20 °C (68 °F)]
1.22 - 1.29
Battery
Load test chart
Standard specification
Back-up current
CAUTION: Operating electrical loads while the back-up current is being measured can damage the tester.
NOTE: For vehicles with the immobilizer system, the system periodically shifts synchronization of the security light flashing. Therefore, 45 mA (0.1 s) current is supplied when the security light is illuminated, and 25 mA (2 s) current is supplied when the security light is not illuminated. In addition, the measuring instrument, which shows the average value, indicates around 30 mA.
Battery back-up current
Vehicles with immobilizer system: 25 - 45 mA
Vehicles without immobilizer system: 30 mA or less
WARNING:
- Since battery acid is toxic, be careful when handling the battery.
- Since battery acid is highly corrosive, be careful not to allow it to contact clothing or the vehicle.
- In case battery acid contacts skin, eyes, or clothing, flush it immediately with running water. Especially if the acid gets in the eyes, flush with water for more than 15 min and get prompt medical attention.
Electrolyte specific gravity
1. Measure the electrolyte specific gravity using a hydrometer.
- If it is less than the specification, recharge the battery. (See BATTERY RECHARGING.)
Battery electrolyte specific gravity: [20 °C (68 °F)]
1.22 - 1.29
Battery
Load Test Chart:
Load test chart
Standard Specification:
Standard specification
Back-up current
CAUTION: Operating electrical loads while the back-up current is being measured can damage the tester.
NOTE: For vehicles with the immobilizer system, the system periodically shifts synchronization of the security light flashing. Therefore, 45 mA (0.1 s) current is supplied when the security light is illuminated, and 25 mA (2 s) current is supplied when the security light is not illuminated. In addition, the measuring instrument, which shows the average value, indicates around 30 mA.
Battery back-up current
Vehicles with immobilizer system: 25 - 45 mA
Vehicles without immobilizer system: 30 mA or less
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.