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: 2004
This car is great! It's amazing to drive and grips the road and corners like a dream. While it may not be the fastest car from a stop, it more than makes up for it once you get moving. If you're planning on buying, make sure to do some research. The rotary engine requires high rpms to run correctly and shouldn't be driven like a normal piston engine. If you try to baby this car, you may run into problems such as carbon build-up or flooding. The best advice I've seen about this vehicle is to drive it like you stole it! By the way, make sure to get the manual transmission as it gives you a lot more horsepower than the automatic version. Lastly, it's important to check that the engine recall has been taken care of before you buy, but as long as you do that, you shouldn't have any problems!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I absolutely love driving this car! It's so much fun and has definitely exceeded my expectations. The handling is incredible and it always turns heads wherever I go. Although the suspension can be a bit stiff at times, it's been my reliable daily driver and weekend getaway car for over 3 years now. The interior is also really impressive with its sleek piano black center pieces and aluminum inserts. Compared to my previous cars, including a 98 Oldsmobile Aurora V8 and 03 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, the RX-8 is much faster and has superior handling. I also own a 2006 Civic Si which is sporty, but it doesn't compare to the RX-8's handling prowess.
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Vehicle year: 2008
The get-up and go of this vehicle is fantastic! If you truly want that
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Vehicle year: 2009
The Series II RX-8 has undergone significant changes compared to the 2004-2008 models. The 2009 model boasts a new and improved powertrain control module (PCM) with a temperature sensor built in. When the engine compartment temperature (ETC) reaches 230F or 100C with the ignition off, the medium cooling fans switch on. The genuine oil filter is now larger and repositioned on the front timing cover housing towards the sump on the left-hand side. It is important to use only the genuine 09 Series II oil filter. The oil filler and dip stick have been revised to a longer type. The new EMOP (Electric Metering Oil Pumps) includes two of them, with internal oil pressure between 7.3 and 21.7 PSI. This is the first time Mazda has used this technology. The oil injection nozzles have also been redesigned, with three per rotor housing, totalling six. The oil pump assembly now provides 50% higher oil pressure at 100 oC (121oF) 3000 RPM, at 500 kPa {5.10 kgf/cm2, 72.5 psi}, when compared to the Series 1 RX-8. The oil pressure sensor is now only located on #1 EMOP. The oil pan sump capacity is now larger, and the sump drain plug is a new hex (8mm) type. The internal oil/sump pan magnet is a new addition, the first time used in a rotary engine since 1985 FC RX-7. The engine sump guard is now an external silver plate. The inlet manifold has been updated with changed APV position sensors. The fuel injection nozzles have been revised to four (two primary, two secondary), compared to the six in the Series I six-port engine. The atmospheric air control solenoid is now located near the throttle body. The fuel pump, radiator core, and radiator electric fan motors are all new, with revised radiator fan speeds from two to three speeds (low, middle, high). The alternator, starter motor, battery (now 80D26L, 80 AMP Hour), and exhaust system are all new. The yaw rate sensor unit, air conditioner temperature controller (amplifier), Bridgestone RE050A's in 18The RX8 has undergone a number of upgrades, including new additional alloy Cooling Fins (4) on the alloy differential Cover Plate, plus deeper set Cooling Fins. The Throw Out Bearing (Thrust or Fork Bearing) has been changed, and the Oil Coolers, Air Intakes, and Oil Cooler Hose Lines have been revised. An extra Rotor Knock Sensor has been added (now 1 per Rotor, Total Of 2), and a new Water Pump, New Timing Cover, and New Water Pump Pulley have been installed. The New Water Pump Hi there! I noticed that you're on page 6 of php?t=161665. Is there anything I can help you with?
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Vehicle year: 2008
Congratulations on your growing family! It's great to hear that your car has been performing well for you over the past 3 months. It's impressive that it has never needed to be serviced and handles corners so well. The brakes are good and the steering response and feel is amazing. I love how light and nimble it feels. The engine sounds great and has great pep at high revs. It's understandable that you didn't give it all 10s, but it's still a fantastic car!
Are you having problems with your Mazda Rx-8?
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!
Brooks Stanton 2025-08-04
Vehicle year: 2004
I purchased this stunning car brand new. Unfortunately, after only 20,000 miles, it had to be taken to the shop over 30 times. Even after a new engine was installed at 30,000 miles, the issues persisted. While it is undeniably a beautiful car, I cannot recommend it unless you are willing to spend a significant amount of money and not drive it often. Personally, I buy cars to drive them, not to keep them in the garage. I expected the car to have many more miles left in it at 30,000 miles. Regrettably, I had to get rid of it due to its unreliability, which cost me a total of 20 grand.
Tyrell Aufderhar 2025-08-01
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased this car 10 months ago and unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with it. It has been in the shop for over 60 days in total so far and I have noticed that it gets poor gas mileage, never exceeding 15 miles to the gallon. Additionally, it seems to burn through oil quite quickly and has required 3 engine replacements in just 10 months. However, I must say that Mazda has been very helpful in replacing and paying for everything, which I appreciate. While I do have concerns about potential engine issues, I believe that Mazda will address them appropriately. I would recommend considering other options before purchasing this car, but ultimately the decision is yours to make.
Loyal DuBuque 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2006
Firstly, this car is an absolute blast to drive! It handles incredibly well. I average around 18 mpg on premium fuel, and although I personally haven't had any reliability issues, I do go easy on the rotary. There are plenty of aftermarket parts available for it, and it turns heads everywhere it goes. Overall, it's a fantastic car if you're willing to spend a little more on gas and maintenance.
Lance Pfannerstill 2025-07-26
Vehicle year: 2006
The RX-8 is a stunning piece of art, but it may not be the most practical choice for city driving. While I adore its appearance and handling, I was surprised by its fuel efficiency, which is comparable to that of a Hummer (11 miles per gallon). According to Mazda, the engine is functioning correctly. Additionally, the requirement to ensure that the engine is warmed up to mid-line before turning it off seems a bit excessive. To run errands to the store or post office, I have to drive six blocks out of my way or worry about whether the car will start the next day. Despite researching this car extensively, I found little mention of these issues. I would recommend purchasing a vehicle with a piston engine instead.