Mazda RX-8 Coilover Install Instructions
Welcome to the 2004–2011 Mazda RX-8 coilover installation instructions. This step-by-step guide is designed to make your install process smooth and straightforward. We’ve included the recommended tools, factory torque specs, and key tips to help you get the best results. While this walkthrough highlights the Function and Form Type 3 Coilover kit, the same steps also apply to our Type 2, and Type 4 systems for the RX-8. For reference, our test vehicle is a 2009 RX-8 fitted with 225/40/18 tires on lightweight wheels. Once installation is complete, we recommend scheduling a professional alignment after a short settling period to ensure proper handling and tire wear. A link to our video tutorial is available at the end of this post for those who prefer a visual guide.
The Mazda RX-8, produced from 2004 to 2011, is celebrated for its lightweight rotary-powered design, near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and responsive chassis. Its front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension setup give it excellent balance and precise steering straight from the factory. This combination has made the RX-8 a favorite among enthusiasts who value handling as much as performance. Installing coilovers not only enhances the RX-8’s aggressive stance but also takes advantage of its balanced chassis, unlocking sharper turn-in, flatter cornering, and improved adjustability for both street and track driving. With strong aftermarket support and timeless rotary heritage, the RX-8 remains a highly rewarding platform to modify, and coilovers are one of the best upgrades to elevate its handling to the next level.
TOOLS NEEDED
Sockets: 19mm, 17mm, 14mm, 12mm.
Wrenches: 17mm.
Impact wrench.
Ratchet.
Torque wrench.
Spanner wrenches (provided with kit).
Measuring tape (provided with kit).
Floor jack.
Jack stands.
Flashlight (optional).
Before beginning the installation, measure the distance from the center of each wheel to the fender for both the front and rear.
Determine your desired ride height adjustment, then write down these measurements for reference.
Safely lift the vehicle using the designated jack points.
Remove the wheels using a 19mm socket.
Unbolt the brake line bracket by with a 12mm socket.
Remove the two bolts on the upper A Arm with a 17mm socket.
Remove the lower mount bolt with a 17mm socket and 17mm wrench.
Remove the two top mount bolts with a 12mm socket and remove the strut.
Adjust coilover to desired height before install.
ATTENTION: Do not adjust ride height using the spring perches, as they are intended for spring preload adjustment only.
Click here for video on how to reset preload.
Place the strut into position and hand tighten the top hat nuts.
Torque the lower mount bolt with a 17mm socket and 17mm wrench to 76 lb-ft.
Torque the top hat nuts to 22 lb-ft.
Torque the two bolts on the upper A Arm with a 17mm socket to 72 lb-ft.
Torque the brake line bracket by with a 12mm socket to 20 lb-ft.
Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to 80 lb-ft.
This concludes the front Mazda RX-8 Coilover instructions.
Rear Installation
Remove the rear wheels with a 19mm socket.
Open the trunk and remove the two top hat nuts from the strut with a 12mm socket.
Remove the one bolt by the top part of the spring with a 12mm socket.
Support the rear spindle and remove the two control arms with a 17mm socket.
Remove the lower mount bolt with a 17mm socket and remove the strut.
Make height adjustment to the coilover before installing coilover.
Place the coilover into place and torque the top hat 14mm nuts to 33 lb-ft.
Use a jack to support the spindle and tighten the lower mount bolt 75 lb-ft.
Torque down the upper control arms to 50 lb-ft.
Install the wheels and torque with a 19mm socket to 80 lb-ft.
This completes the Mazda RX-8 Coilover Instructions. An alignment is recommended one week after installation to allow the suspension to settle properly.
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