CARFIX

Mazda RX-5 13B Coupe (1976–1979)

Welcome to the CARFIX Vehicle Wiki for the MAZDA RX-5 Base. This guide provides essential information to help you understand, maintain, and enjoy your rotary-powered coupe. While relatively rare in New Zealand, the RX-5 offers a unique blend of performance and luxury. Let's explore what you need to know to keep it on the road.

Parts for the Mazda RX-5 13B Coupe

Known issues

Owners of MAZDA RX-5s often face challenges with rotary engine wear (apex seals), corrosion (especially near coastal areas), and fuel system problems due to the vehicle's age. Rotary engine issues commonly arise around 80,000 - 120,000 km. Regular inspection and preventative maintenance are key.

WOF tips

When taking your MAZDA RX-5 for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection in New Zealand, be mindful of potential watch points such as excessive play in steering components and significant rust in structural areas, particularly around suspension mounts. Address these issues promptly to ensure your RX-5 passes inspection.

About the Mazda RX-5 13B Coupe

RX-5 Ownership: What to Expect

The MAZDA RX-5, a distinct coupe known for its rotary engine, presents unique ownership considerations. These vehicles are now of an age where careful maintenance and attention to detail are crucial.

Maintenance & Reliability

Keep an eye on the following areas to proactively maintain your RX-5:
• Rotary Engine Health: The rotary engine is the RX-5's defining feature, but also a potential source of concern. Regular maintenance and attentive monitoring are crucial. Many owners report apex seal wear becoming apparent between approximately 80,000 and 120,000 km. Symptoms can include decreased compression, difficult starting, and increased oil consumption.
• Corrosion: Like many vehicles of its era, the RX-5 is susceptible to rust, particularly in coastal environments. Regularly inspect structural areas, including suspension mounts, for signs of corrosion.
• Fuel System: Due to the vehicle's age, components of the fuel system may degrade. Fuel leaks are a potential fire hazard; if you notice a fuel odor, investigate immediately.

Essential Maintenance Parts for Your RX-5

To keep your RX-5 running optimally, consider the following:
• Thermostat Housing Gasket: Ensure a leak-free cooling system by replacing the thermostat housing gasket when necessary.
• Wiper Blades: Maintain clear visibility in all weather conditions with quality wiper blades.
• Clutch Kit & Advanced Clutch System: If you have a manual transmission, be prepared for clutch maintenance. A worn clutch can significantly impact driving enjoyment.
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Front / Timing Front: Prevent oil leaks and maintain engine lubrication by replacing worn crankshaft seals.
• Radiator Cap: A functional radiator cap ensures proper cooling system pressure.
• Shocks / Strut Rear: Replacing worn rear shocks/struts improves ride quality and handling.
• Tie Rod & Tie Rod End: Maintaining steering integrity is vital for safety; replace worn tie rod components as needed.
• Drive Belt Power Steering: Ensure smooth power steering operation by replacing worn drive belts.
• Alternator: A reliable alternator is crucial for charging the battery and powering electrical systems.
• Windscreen Washer Pump Front: Maintain clear windshield visibility with a functioning washer pump.
• Thermostat: Replacing a faulty thermostat is crucial to maintaining your RX-5’s engine temperature.
• Automatic Transmission Filter & Automatic Transmission Fluid: Regular servicing of automatic transmissions, is crucial for smooth operation and longevity.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common engine problems with a MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979 in New Zealand?
The most common engine problem for the MAZDA RX-5 is wear of the rotary engine's apex seals. This typically becomes apparent between 80,000 and 120,000 km and can lead to decreased compression, difficult starting, and increased oil consumption. Regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial for these rotary engines.
What should I look out for regarding rust on my MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979, especially in coastal areas of NZ?
Like many vehicles of its age, the MAZDA RX-5 is susceptible to corrosion, particularly in coastal environments. You should regularly inspect structural areas, including suspension mounts, for any signs of rust. Addressing these promptly is also important for Warrant of Fitness inspections.
What are the key WOF inspection points for a MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979 in New Zealand?
When taking your MAZDA RX-5 for a WOF in New Zealand, pay close attention to potential issues like excessive play in steering components (such as tie rods and tie rod ends) and significant rust in structural areas, especially around suspension mounts. Ensure these are addressed to pass inspection.
Where can I get essential maintenance parts for my MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 190 SKUs for the MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979. You can find parts like Thermostat Housing Gaskets, Wiper Blades, Clutch Kits, Oil Seal Crank Shaft Front, Radiator Caps, Shocks / Strut Rear, Tie Rods & Tie Rod Ends, Drive Belt Power Steering, Alternators, Windscreen Washer Pumps Front, and Thermostats to keep your vehicle running optimally.
What are the signs of a failing fuel system in a MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979?
Due to the age of the MAZDA RX-5, components of the fuel system can degrade. A key sign of a failing fuel system is a fuel odor, which indicates a potential fuel leak. This is a fire hazard and should be investigated immediately.
How often should I service my MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979?
The recommended service interval for your MAZDA RX-5 1976–1979 is every 5000km. Regular servicing is crucial, especially given the unique requirements of its rotary engine.