Oil Pan Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the oil pan mounting bolts.
Disconnect the cylinder block and oil pan using an oil pan seal cutter.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Cylinder Block And Oil Pan Using Oil Pan Seal Cutter
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Do not insert the flathead screwdriver or the like into the mating surface between the cylinder block and oil pan.
Remove the oil pan by inserting the flathead screwdriver into the part shown in the figure.

Fig 2: Removing Oil Pan By Inserting Flathead Screwdriver
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.