Mazda RX-7 FD3S OEM Style Pedals: Dead Pedal & Gas Pedal Guide

By Garage Alpha: Titanium Hood Props, Carbon Fiber Door Sills ... | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to install drilled aluminum dead and gas pedals in your FD3S RX-7. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes and fitment tips.

Quick Answer

Upgrade your FD3S interior with OEM style drilled aluminum dead and gas pedals. Follow the steps below for a clean, secure install that matches Mazda's factory look.

Why Choose OEM Style Drilled Pedals?

Mazda's engineers designed the FD3S with drilled aluminum brake and clutch pedals to save weight. They left the gas and dead pedal plastic, which feels out of place in an otherwise driver-focused cockpit. Replacing them with drilled aluminum versions completes the set and adds a cohesive motorsport look.

The drilled pattern isn't just for style—it provides extra grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions. This upgrade is a straightforward interior enhancement that doesn't require any permanent modification to your car.

What to Expect: Fitment and Compatibility

These pedals are designed specifically for the Mazda RX-7 FD3S (1992-2002). They are not universal; they are made to match the factory pedal shapes and mounting points. Before you start, confirm your car's pedal configuration and that the pedals you ordered are the correct ones for your market (LHD or RHD).

The dead pedal is a common point of confusion—some FD3S models have a plastic dead pedal, while others may have a metal one. The OEM style drilled dead pedal is designed to replace the plastic unit, giving you the same drilled look as the brake and clutch pedals.

Tools You'll Need

Gather these tools before starting: a socket set (typically 10mm and 12mm), a screwdriver (flathead and Phillips), a trim removal tool, and a torque wrench. You may also need a drill and small drill bits if the pedal holes don't align perfectly—but this is rare with quality aftermarket parts.

Having the right tools on hand will make the job faster and reduce the risk of damaging trim or stripping bolts.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Prepare the Workspace: Park on a flat surface, turn off the engine, and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Remove any floor mats to access the pedals. Ensure you have good lighting and a clean area to avoid losing small parts. Always disconnect the battery to prevent accidental airbag deployment or electrical shorts.
Remove the Old Dead Pedal: Locate the dead pedal on the far left of the footwell. Use a trim removal tool to gently pry off any plastic covers. Then, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the dead pedal in place. Keep the bolts in a safe place. Don't force the trim—if it doesn't come off easily, check for hidden screws.
Install the New Dead Pedal: Align the new drilled dead pedal with the mounting holes. Hand-tighten the bolts first to ensure alignment, then torque to the manufacturer's specification (usually around 10-12 ft-lb). Check that the pedal is flush against the floor. Hand-tighten first to avoid cross-threading; overtightening can strip the threads.
Remove the Old Gas Pedal: The gas pedal is typically attached to the firewall with a bracket. Remove any screws or clips holding the pedal arm. You may need to disconnect the throttle cable if it's cable-operated, but many FD3S models use a drive-by-wire system—check your setup. If you have a cable, mark its position before removal to make reattachment easier.
Install the New Gas Pedal: Position the new drilled gas pedal and secure it with the provided hardware. If the pedal has a sensor or cable, reconnect it carefully. Torque the bolts to specification and ensure the pedal moves freely without binding. Test the pedal travel before driving to ensure it's not sticking or hitting the floor mat.
Reconnect Battery and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the car and press each pedal to verify smooth operation. Check that the dead pedal is solid and the gas pedal returns fully when released. Take a short test drive to confirm everything feels right. If the gas pedal feels spongy or delayed, double-check the sensor or cable connection.

Pedal Options from Garage Alpha

Mazda RX-7 [FD3S] OEM Style Drilled Dead Pedal: This dead pedal is made to match the drilled aluminum brake and clutch pedals that Mazda engineers designed for the FD3S, replacing the plastic factory unit. You get a consistent drilled look across all pedals and better grip for your left foot.
Mazda RX-7 [FD3S] OEM Style Drilled Dead Pedal
Mazda RX-7 [FD3S] OEM Style Drilled Gas Pedal: This gas pedal is designed to match the factory drilled style, completing the set and replacing the plastic gas pedal. It provides a uniform appearance and improves foot grip on the accelerator.
Mazda RX-7 [FD3S] OEM Style Drilled Gas Pedal