Mazda Rx-8 problems
The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Mazda between 2003 and 2012. It was first shown in 2001 at the North American International Auto Show. It is the direct successor to the RX-7. Like its predecessors in the RX range, it is powered by a rotary Wankel engine. The RX-8 was available for the 2003 model year in most parts of the world.
The Mazda RX-8 utilizes a rotary Wankel engine, and the non-reciprocating piston engine uses a triangular rotor inside a near oval housing, producing from 141 kW (189 hp) and 164 lb⋅ft (222 N⋅m) of torque, to 177 kW (237 hp) and 159 lb⋅ft (216 N⋅m) of torque from launch. A myriad of various drivetrains are available in the Mazda RX-8.
The RX-8 was discontinued for the 2012 model year without a successor. It was removed earlier from the European market in 2010 after the car failed to meet emissions standards. Due to falling sales from Europe coupled with rising Yen prices, Mazda could not justify the continued sale of the RX-8 in other markets. 192,094 units were produced during its 9-year production run.
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Mazda Rx-8 model years
Common Mazda Rx-8 problems
The Mazda RX-8 is a four-door sports coupe known for its unique rotary engine and sleek design. However, it has been plagued with several common problems that have affected its reliability and overall owner satisfaction.
- Engine Problems: The Mazda RX-8's rotary-style engine is widely reported to be unreliable. The engine's check engine warning light on the dashboard is a key indicator of a faulty engine. Other common signs include a smoking exhaust, overheating, and poor fuel economy. The engine's susceptibility to problems increases once it reaches 60,000 miles, making it pricey to run.
- Power Steering Problems: Mazda RX-8 power steering problems have been reported by some owners, with the power steering going in and out randomly. This issue can be dangerous, especially at high speeds or in tight parking spots.
- Airbag Issues: The Mazda RX-8 has had airbag issues, with excessive pressure causing the inflator to rupture during airbag deployment, posing a risk of injury to occupants.
- Fuel Cap and Fuel Tank Problems: The Mazda RX-8 has had issues with fuel caps cracking and fuel tank caps loosening, leading to a risk of fuel loss and fire.
- Steering Problems: Steering issues have been reported in the Mazda RX-8, with cracks forming on the front lower transverse link socket, impairing steering.
- Catalytic Converter Failure: The Mazda RX-8's catalytic converter is prone to failure, which can be costly to replace. This issue is often caused by jumpy acceleration, which can damage the converter.
- Ignition Coil Failure: The Mazda RX-8's ignition coils can fail, particularly as the engine reaches the 30,000-mile mark, leading to engine problems and increased emissions.
In summary, the Mazda RX-8 has several common problems, including faulty starter motors, unreliable engines, power steering issues, airbag problems, fuel cap and fuel tank issues, steering problems, catalytic converter failure, and ignition coil failure. These issues have contributed to the car's poor reliability and high running costs, making it a less desirable choice for many car buyers.
Do Mazda RX-8 have problems?
One of the most reported RX8 problems revolves around its engine. Its unique high-performance rotary-style engine has proven to be more unreliable than expected, particularly after 60,000 miles.
What year Mazda RX-8 to avoid?
RX-8 Generations
The RX-8 has 2 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (2004–2008).
Is a Mazda RX-8 a good car?
Mazda's design for the RX-8 was notable for its similarity to European coupes, a small yet potent sports car. But while its profile and power pleased many, the RX-8 proved to be a costly ride when it came to running costs, particularly at the pump.
How long will a RX-8 engine last?
It's no secret that the RX-8 has had a spotty record with engine life. While many have 100,000+ mile lifespan, far too many have gone far less. There is no single item that can be changed to double the engine life.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Rx-8 years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Rx-8 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Rx-8 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Rx-8 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Rx-8 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Rx-8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Rx-8 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Rx-8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rx-8 model years
A total of 33 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rx-8 model years
There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rx-8 model years
There were a total of 25 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 811 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Rx-8 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Rx-8 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-23
- VIN: JM1FE17N140
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda RX-8. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The dealer determined that the engine had no compression. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-11
- VIN: JM1FE173440
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The electric power steering randomly pulls hard to one side while driving. There are brief spasms of forceful jerks each jerk is 1-2 seconds the series of jerks lasts 10-20 seconds and usually stops with power steering failure all while driving.
Mazda Rx-8 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-29
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-13
- VIN: JM1FE173650
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
Mazda Rx-8 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1FE1RP6B0
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The incident occurred on 02/08/2023. Prior to this, I brought my car to the dealership due to a recall to fix gas mounting rings, recall number . I do not feel comfortable with their repairs and I do not believe that the dealership performed the repairs properly which caused my car to smoke and stall on the road and then caught on fire at their shop. They claimed that their own business insurance fire fixed the damages but I believe that the car is damaged beyond repair. Furthermore, they held the car since February 2023. Until now, July 2023 the Guam dealership is unable to fix my car. To add, the repairs they claim far exceed the market value of the car and the car is at a total loss. I consider it totaled. I do not feel safe driving this car. 2011 Mazda RX-8 Recall Item Affected: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Date Announced: 09/24/2021Description of Recall: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings. Action Need To Fix It: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 23, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.
Mazda Rx-8 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1FE1RP6B0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Mazda Rx 8. The contact stated after performing NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V744000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) while driving at 35 MPH, the contact smelled the odor of smoke in the vehicle, but no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. While the vehicle was being diagnosed, the vehicle caught on fire and burned. The contact did not have any details of the fire. The vehicle was diagnosed and stated that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 55,000.
Mazda Rx-8 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-23
- VIN: JM1FE173260
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact's grandson owns a 2006 Mazda RX-8. The contact stated that while her grandson was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the vehicle had an oil pressure failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-29
- VIN: JM1FE173440
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine naturally wears out especially after 200k miles due to friction in the natural design of the Rotary engine, resulting in losing its overall function such as turning off in the middle of a drive due to loss of compression from worn Apex Seals of the Rotary. The rotary engine requires a replacement of the Apex Seals to continue functioning normally to avoid any unpredictable accidents due to engine failure. An event occurred where my RX-8 went into limp mode in the middle of the freeway as i was commuting due a misfire from poor compression, this is more then likely a common event nowadays for RX-8 owners starting at the S1 2004 models with newer models soon to follow the same incident as me. This is completely unsafe especially traveling at 65 MPH
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-09
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-23
- VIN: JM1FE173640
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda RX-8. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, he noticed a strong gasoline odor originating from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump was fractured and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V354000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the recall repair failed to fix the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they would follow up with him. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
Mazda Rx-8 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-19
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-27
- VIN: JM1FE173050
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Part associated with recall 1017E has failed due to improper installation.
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-02
- VIN: Jm1fe173040
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel fumes are leaking into passenger compartment and leaking from tank. Previous recall failed to fix
Mazda Rx-8 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-21
- VIN: JM1FE173650
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My cars steering will loosen up and stiffen up randomly also the traction control will randomly engage and the tire pressure lights and another light
Mazda Rx-8 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-18
- VIN: JM1FE173750
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The steering wheel sometimes its hard to control sometimes its normal and when going fast the steering is so loose like there's a gaps that you need your two hands on the steering all time and the weels Weigel at high speed 60mph. its hard drive the car on the freeway And everyday use i already spend $2800 at the dealership get fix but never get fix The car no accident to be like that. Car has 80k mileage
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-28
- VIN: JM1FE173340
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG CRACKED DASH AND PUSHED OUT GLOVE BOX.
Mazda Rx-8 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-05
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-29
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1FE173450
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL LEAK AT GAS TANK AREA CAUSED MASSIVE FIRE.
Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-27
- VIN: JM1FE173340
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I NOW HAVE REPLACEDCLUTCH PEDAL THE FORTH TIME. IM WRITING THIS TO SEE IFI CAN STILL GET ONE FACTORY REPAIR OF THE PART THE PEDAL WILL BREAK IN WELD SPOT REGARDLESS OF MY TRYING NOT PUT TO MUCH PRESSURE.
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Rx-8
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 42 recalls for different components of the Mazda Rx-8.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Rx-8 2011
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-24
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 17, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.
- Model: Mazda Rx-8 2009
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-24
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 17, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.
- Model: Mazda Rx-8 2010
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-24
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 17, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.
- Model: Mazda Rx-8 2004
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2005 MPV, 2004 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 13V130, 14V362, 14V773 and 15V869.
- Model: Mazda Rx-8 2010
- Report Received Date: 2019-06-24
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Mazda RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under recall 18V-716 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began July 9, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F.
Latest negative Mazda Rx-8 car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Rx-8 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
Great car! The only minor issues are the inconveniently placed cup holders and the heated seat buttons that can be accidentally turned on and off.
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Vehicle year: 2007
This is my third rotary and it is great! I have had no problems with it, and it's so much fun to drive. It has all the passing power I need, and it corners so well. Shifting is easy, and the power is smooth. Plus, it's so beautiful to look at! The sound system is good too - not a window-blowing sound, but certainly adequate for the small interior. Many people choose to add woofers and amps, but that is a personal choice. The fit and finish of the body parts is tight, the brakes are strong, and the styling is unique. As a satisfied customer, I highly recommend it!
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Vehicle year: 2005
I absolutely adore my 6-speed Shinka, but I must admit that it's more of an academic exercise in engineering and beauty, a 'proof-of-concept' of the rotary engine, than a practical 21st-century car. In this age of drying-up oil supplies and soaring fuel costs, the gas mileage on this work of art will 'kill' you. Unfortunately, I'm only getting 14MPG no matter how careful I am, while my old, heavy, automatic '95 Nissan Pathfinder regularly gets 17MPG. It's quite surprising! Even driving normally ends up with 14mpg. I've only seen one owner-review that says he accomplishes the advertised 24/18, and I'd REALLY like to know how!
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Vehicle year: 2006
Despite my love for this car and its ability to turn heads, I am unfortunately facing a recurring issue with the tires. Despite my best efforts to drive responsibly, I have gone through three sets of tires since purchasing the car in July 06, with only 13K miles on it. While the dealership and Mazda have been unable to assist me, I am confident that this issue is not the expected life for tires on this car. As a result, I have made the difficult decision to sell the car. Although I will miss it dearly, I am confident that I am making the right choice for myself and my finances.
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Vehicle year: 2006
The sheet metal of this car is definitely a matter of taste. However, one certainty is that it turns heads all the time. I have two kids and they are perfectly comfortable in the rear seats. We have another car for all the hauling, but this car is fine for 80% of everyday duties. Handling is extremely forgiving and it's easy to drive fast. The engine needs a little more attention than a regular piston engine, but treat it right and it will reward you with many grins. Critics complain about the lack of torque, but it is spread over a wider powerband, making it less temperamental.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Rx-8?
Pietro Berge 2025-09-14
Vehicle year: 2006
After a few years, this car is still tons of fun to drive! Although it may not be the best for heavy traffic commuting, it's a great road trip car with amazing handling. It turns and stops better than anything I've ever driven. While it may not be the best on snow or ice, it's an absolute hoot to drive above 5,000 rpm. It took some time and practice to learn how to maximize the performance, but once you figure out the engine, it's the easiest car to drive fast that I've ever experienced.
Emmett Mertz 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2004
Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it on a whim because it was so much fun to drive, without doing much research. After purchasing it, I spoke to several mechanics who told me that these rotary engines aren't the best. Unfortunately, my engine blew at 80k miles, but it lasted longer than most. Looking back, I can see that buying this car may not have been the best financial decision, but I still had a lot of fun with it!
Austyn Nitzsche 2025-09-03
Vehicle year: 2004
Our vehicle seems to be using more oil than expected, about 1 quart every 600 miles. It's a bit frustrating, but we'll make sure to keep an eye on it. According to the manual, the oil should be changed every 5000 miles, but we've noticed it needs to be changed more frequently. We hope Mazda Corp can address this issue and improve their selling practices. Despite these challenges, we're still enjoying our car and its 15 mpg. It may not be the most fuel-efficient, but it gets the job done!
Kurt Luettgen 2025-09-02
Vehicle year: 2004
I have had a very negative experience with this car. Since purchasing it brand new in 2004, I have had to replace two engines and have encountered numerous other issues. The car frequently makes rattling noises and breaks down while I am driving, which is a serious safety concern. Unfortunately, the dealership has not been helpful and I have had to argue with them to get any assistance. While the car may look nice, it has been a constant source of problems and frustration.
Felipe Buckridge 2025-08-11
Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I noticed that you're interested in the '06 RX8 with the six-speed manual. I completely agree that the manual is the way to go, as it has more power (238hp and redlines 1500rpm higher) than the automatic. Before you make your purchase, there are a few things to keep in mind. Rotaries tend to consume more oil and gas than similar-sized piston engines, so be sure to check those levels often. While the standing-start acceleration may not be the most impressive, once you hit 30mph, get ready for an exciting ride! To get the best performance, make sure to rev the engine above 5000rpm. Also, be sure to run the car for at least 5 minutes to avoid flooding the engine. One thing that Mazda is known for is phenomenal handling, and the RX8 is no exception. Just keep in mind that this car isn't designed for snow or ice, so it's best to avoid driving in those conditions. Let me know if you have any other questions!