2004 Mazda RX8 review from North America
"Nice looker, but poor fuel performance for the power"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Tire pressure sensors were not programmed at delivery. This was corrected and has not been an issue since.
Gas mileage was 16 city 18 highway, a HUGE error in reporting from the EPA. After ignition coil replacement and higher tire pressure, the mileage has gone up to 18 city and 22 highway!
The ignition coils and spark plug wires had a meltdown at 39,000 mile. I thought the engine seized. With the new wires the car performs better then ever. I think this problem existed for a while and finally failed totally.
General comments?
I have NOT had the problems reported by other with cold or hot starts. Keep the right foot off the gas pedal and it fires up easy.
Keep the tire pressure at the top of the tires recommended range, and mileage will go way up. My low profile tires allow 50 psi, I keep them at 45+ and it made a huge difference. I am now breaking 18 mpg in the city (6 speed manual) routinely.
Great looking. Missing many amenities that cheap cars have. The tire pressure sensors fire an idiot light, not numbers on the dash. The radio does not show information signal that all new cars show (artist/album). No XM satellite. No performance computer with MPG or miles to go, etc... The trunk is spacious, but the opening is too small to allow the suitcase to go in!!! No spare tire, just a can of fix a flat.
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| 2004 - RX8 Grand Touring Renesis 1.3L Rotary A real lemon! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2004 |
| Year of manufacture | 2004 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 Manual |
| Performance marks | 4 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 4 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Stealth |
| Date of Entry | 2nd December, 2007 |