2009 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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Common 2009 Mazda Rx-8 problems
The Mazda RX-8, a sports car produced between 2003 and 2012, is known for its unique high-performance rotary-style engine. However, this engine has proven to be more unreliable than expected, particularly after 60,000 miles. The most common solution to this problem is to have your vehicle fitted for a replacement engine, which can be very expensive.
Another common issue with the RX-8 is the power steering. Various reports detail that their RX8’s power steering randomly goes in and out, even though all of the connections seem to be clean and tight. A low-risk DIY solution that has been said to help many owners fix the RX8 power steering issues is changing their battery cable ends. On the positive cable end, there is a white wire that powers the power steering. Over time, it is common for this wire to become loose at the battery post resulting in a bad connection. That said, replacing it with a regular/new battery cable end has been said to solve the issue.
Faulty starter motors are another common problem with the RX-8. If it is becoming difficult to start your car, the root of the issue is most likely being caused by the starter motor. To remedy the issue, you may need to replace the starter motor altogether.
Additionally, the catalytic converter is prone to failing in the RX-8. If you are unsure if this is the issue you are having, one of the most common symptoms is a jumpy acceleration. When accelerating, your vehicle should do so smoothly. However, if it’s not smooth and feels jerky, it might be time to get your catalytic converter looked at. If your car ends up having a catalytic converter issue, you will likely need to replace it to resolve the problem, which can be very expensive.
Lastly, the gear knob wiring becoming loose or breaking has become a common problem in RX8. Mazda did produce a modified version of the gear knob to resolve the issue.
While the Mazda RX-8 has several common problems, it's important to note that Mazdas are still great cars. As long as you are aware of the common issues you might be facing when getting a new vehicle, you will be more confident about your purchase. Most modern cars come with little risk, especially if you are able to follow the recommended maintenance schedule.
What is the common problem in Mazda RX-8?
Engine 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 years to avoid Mazda RX-8?
Avoid the 2004-2006 cars. Mazda also tried to sell the Rx8 as a "normal" car with "normal" service intervals, which wasn't really adapted to the needs of a rotary engine!
How do I know if my RX-8 engine is bad?
Hot start problems (signs of poor compression). Growling noise and loss of power (sticking SSV or tune valves). Engine Management Light flashing whilst driving (real-time detection of engine misfire). Rattling Exhaust (catalyst damaged with ceramic in the rear section of exhaust).
What is the weakness of the RX-8?
What makes the RX8 so special is also it's one 'weakness'. Namely the nature of the rotary motor in a daily driver. The Renesis motor in the RX8 is a naturally aspirated rotary motor that tends to stop enjoying it's place in life around the 100k mile mark.
2009 Mazda Rx-8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Rx-8 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Mazda Rx-8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2009 Mazda Rx-8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Mazda Rx-8.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-02
- VIN: JM1FE17P290
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MAZDA RECALLED ALL 2004-2008 RX8 MODELS FOR FUEL PUMP AND LOCKRING GASKET ASSEMBLY LEAKAGE. MY 2009 RX8 HAS THE SAME ISSUE AND STARTING LEAKING GAS ON 1-02-2020 WHILE PARKED IN A GARAGE. I CALLED MAZDA AND WAS TOLD THERE WERE NO RECALLS; HOWEVER MY CAR HAS THE SAME PROBLEM THE 2004-2008 MODELS HAD. NOW I HAVE TO PAY CLOSE TO $1,000.00 FOR REPAIR THAT SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE RECALL.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-15
- VIN: JM1FE17P790
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I PURCHASED A MAZDA RX8 NEW IN 2009. I HAVE NOTICED THE PASSENGER DASH CRACKING. AT FIRST IT WAS SMALL LINES, AND I THOUGHT IT WAS THE NORMAL LOOK OF IT, BUT OVER TIME THE CRACKS GOT BIGGER. I WENT TO MY MAZDA DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME THAT OTHER CUSTOMERS HAD SAME ISSUES AND THEY ARE STILL WAITING FOR A MAZDA RECALL. I HAVE EVEN SEEN OTHER SIMILAR COMPLAINTS ONLINE. THE CRACKS LOOK HORRIBLE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-13
- VIN: JM1FE172490
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH WILL NOT WORK
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-03
- VIN: JM1FE174290
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I NOTICED A FUEL SMELL COMING THROUGH MY VENTS. AFTER CHECKING AROUND THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT I SAW FUEL POOLING ON THE ENGINE PASSENGER SIDE. I'M UNAWARE AT THE MOMENT OF THE CAUSE ADD I AM TAKING IT TO BE CHECKED AT THE DEALER TOMORROW. *TR
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-01
- VIN: JM1FE172290
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 2009 RX 8 MAZDA VIN#[XXX] I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AND ALL THE SUDDEN THE CRUISE CONTROL SHUT OFF CAUSING THE CAR TO IMMEDIATELY SLOW DOWN BY 10 MILES AN HOUR. THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT RE-ENGAGE. I AM NOW HAVING AN ISSUE WHERE IT FEELS MY ABS IS ENGAGING WHEN I FIRST START DRIVING IN FIRST AND SECOND GEAR. I HAVE TAKEN THIS CAR TO THE MAZDA DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT RECREATE THE PROBLEM. THEY SIMPLY STATED IT COULD JUST BE THE 100+ DEGREE TEXAS WEATHER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-18
- VIN: JM1FE174390
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MAZDA RX8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED UNINTENDEDLY TO APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH. HE ENGAGED THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL AND THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV VERY HARD. THE CONTACT STATED HE TURNED THE IGNITION OFF TO PREVENT THE ENGINE FROM BLOWING UP. HE THEN PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ENGAGED THE ACCELERATOR FOUR TIMES AND IT RELEASED ITSELF. HE CALLED THE DEALER AFTER THE FIRST FAILURE AND WAS ADVISED BY THEM THAT THEY WERE NOT AWARE OF THIS TYPE OF FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE HAD HAPPEN TWICE. THE CONTACT STATED HE CALLED THE DEALER AGAIN AND HAS AN APPOINTMENT FOR APRIL 22, 2011. HE CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY WERE ATTEMPTING TO GET THE VEHICLE IN BEFORE THE 22ND. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,600 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 39,700. VWB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-06
- VIN: JM1FE172690
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE HWY, THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON, I HAD BEEN USING IT FOR ABOUT 20 MILES, OCCASIONALLY BUMPING THE SPEED UP OR DOWN AS CONDITIONS PERMITTED. MY PRIMARY REASON FOR THAT IS ON LONG TRIPS I GET BETTER GAS MILEAGE THAT WAY. THE DIVIDED HIGHWAY CAME TO AN END AND THERE WAS A TRAFFIC LIGHT ABOUT A HALF MILE AHEAD, SO I BUMPED IT DOWN ABOUT 2 MPH, THEN BUMPED IT DOWN A FEW SECONDS LATER ANOTHER 2 OR 3 MPH. THE LIGHT TURNED RED THEN, SO I STEPPED ON THE BRAKES (DOING ABOUT 65 AT THIS POINT). THE ENGINE REVED UP, THE CRUISE CONTROL DID NOT DISENGAGE SO I STEPPED ON THE CLUTCH. THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV UP SO I PRESSED THE CANCEL BUTTON ON THE STEERING WHEEL. THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV UP (ABOUT 6K NOW) SO I TOOK THE CAR OUT OF GEAR AND TURNED THE CRUISE CONTOL OFF. THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV UP (ABOUT 7K NOW) AND I'M COMPLETELY STOPPED AT THE LIGHT. NO THROTTLE CONTROL AT ALL. I SHUT THE CAR OFF AT THAT POINT. WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN THE CAR STARTED FINE AND RAN NORMALLY.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-06
- VIN: JM1FE173450
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NORMAL DRIVING AND THE CLUTCH PEDAL POPPED AND BECAME UNSTABLE. SHIFTING THE CARD BECAME DIFFICULT. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION DISCOVERED THE METAL BRACKET FOR THE CLUTCH BROKE. *TR
2009 Mazda Rx-8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2009 Mazda Rx-8.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Mazda MPV vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2005-2009 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 17V-011 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 metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018 for MPV vehicles. The recall began July 9, 2019 for RX-8 vehicles. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: With the addition of the RX-8 vehicles, this recall fully supersedes recall 17V-011.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Mazda RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under recall 18V-017 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: 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. Note: This recall supersedes recall 18V017.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV vehicles nationwide. Mazda is also recalling 2005-2006 MPV vehicles in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2004-2011 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-354 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, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag 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 remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018. Mailing to the affected RX-8 owners began July 6, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: With the addition of the RX-8 vehicles, this recall fully supersedes recall 16V354.
Negative 2009 Mazda Rx-8 car reviews
Positive 2009 Mazda Rx-8 car reviews
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Your 2006 RX-8 is a fantastic sports car! It has proven to be extremely reliable and fun to drive. Although it may not be the most fuel-efficient car, it is definitely worth it. One of the things I love about it is that it has 4 seats, which is perfect for my beagle who loves to ride in the back seat. The doors open in a way that makes it easy for him to get in and out of the car, and he knows to stay put in his designated seat. I also appreciate how well it handles on the road. While my significant other's 350z convertible may be faster, I feel that my RX-8 handles better. Overall, I am very happy with my car and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and fun sports car.
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I bought my RX 8 to replace my Mazda6 that was totaled in an accident. I'm a car enthusiast who was looking for something sporty and fun to drive, and I definitely got both with this car. I opted for the 6-speed to add to the enjoyment of driving a sports car, and I also chose the Crystal White Pearl which I absolutely adore. It's worth noting that this car is basically a two-seater with suicide doors, so don't expect to haul the family around as the back seat has very limited leg room. If you can't afford premium fuel, this car may not be for you as I'm averaging about 16 mpg in the city. Overall, I'm thrilled with my RX 8 and am a true RX 8 lover!
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As a proud owner of three Mazda Rotary vehicles, including a 1988 RX-7 GXL, a 1994 3rd Gen RX-7, and now this latest addition, I can confidently say that I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. Although I had not planned on getting another car, unfortunately, my 15-year-old 3rd gen RX-7 was recently totaled. Despite initial concerns about the '8' not being able to match the 3rd gen's stellar performance due to its heavier weight, lower horsepower, and lack of low-end torque, I was pleasantly surprised by its razor-sharp cornering ability and the smoothness of the rotary. Overall, I am confident in my decision to purchase this vehicle and look forward to many more years of driving enjoyment.
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I have now owned this vehicle for about a month and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its handling. The acceleration and tracking in corners is way above what I expected. Currently, I am getting around 18 MPG while driving in the city. As a 49-year-old adult, I would highly recommend this vehicle.
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Hi there! Are the kids out of the house? Maybe it's time to treat yourself to a little fun! The RX 8 is the perfect car for that. I chose this car because I wanted something that was fun to drive. The four doors were a selling point for me since my Old English Sheep Dog loves to come along for the ride. Unfortunately, she can only sit in the front seat, which means she has to stay home when my wife and I hit the road. However, there is plenty of space for grandkids and adults on short trips. The handling is great, and the automatic transmission performs flawlessly. It may not be as fast as a 6-speed, but I'm not into racing. The fit and finish are good, and the seats are comfortable on long trips. There is a little more road noise than I would like, but you can still hear the Zoom Zoom! Enjoy your ride!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Mazda Rx-8 problems:
2009 Mazda RX-8 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Problem with your 2009 Mazda RX-8? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Mazda RX-8.
What are the most common engine problems with a Mazda RX8 ...
Jan 8, 2016 ... Ignition coils that cause a misfire that can cause a clogged catalytic converter which leads to compression loss. · Failed coolant seals in rear ...
Most Common Mazda RX-8 Problems - GT Automotive
Mar 11, 2024 ... 5 Common Mazda RX8 Problems ... The power steering is one of the first things owners tend to experience issues with. Various reports detail that ...
Idle issues (merged with Rx8 stalls at idle. help me!) - RX8Club.com
Sep 23, 2011 ... My 2004 mazda rx8 keeps stalling on me.... Starts up no problem, runs full throtle no problem just at idle it stalls.... Sometimes it wont stall ...
Common RX-8 ECU Issues: Signs, Replacement & Solutions
Dec 8, 2016 ... I have an RX8 with ECU/Fuel issues. It's currently with a Rotary Engine specialist as they rebuilt the engine for me.
Other years of Mazda Rx-8
Are you having problems with your 2009 Mazda Rx-8?
Misael Hermiston 2024-08-06
I have owned sports cars all my life and my favorite had a 50/50 weight distribution ('75 Alfetta GT). This car doesn't feel as light, or as peppy from what I remember. The only other rotary car I drove was an old MX2, right hand drive imported by a service man and traded through a local dealership. he had bought two, and had to sell one to pay for the EPA expenses to end up with one car. It was hot... this car is not so hot. Not nearly enough torque. Features are nice, variable speed/temp redline is pretty kewl, and rev-limiters in general, also kewl. if you're going to have a hot car you should drive it hard... and this car really isn't all that "hot". I'm not "sorry" I bought.
Mike Hagenes 2024-06-09
The car's engine stalls frequently and is prone to flooding if driven for less than 40 minutes, which is not ideal for inner city living where parking spots need to be frequently shuffled. Despite reporting the performance drop off to Mazda, they were unable to find any issues. Unfortunately, a full engine replacement was necessary. Regrettably, the experience has left a negative impression and I will not be purchasing from Mazda again. It is disappointing that Mazda Australia did not offer any customer goodwill in this situation. While legal action is an option, it is not feasible for me at this time.
Colby Bednar 2024-05-02
I've had my RX8 for 2 years now and overall, it's not a bad car. As a sports car, it's pretty average, but it does handle great on curvy roads. The rotary engine lacks torque, so you really have to rev it into high RPMs to accelerate. Unfortunately, the rotary engine is also terrible in terms of gas mileage, getting only between 15-19mpg. Even my old V8 Corvette and Mustang got better gas mileage than the rotary engine. Additionally, the rotary engine burns a lot of oil, with me generally having to fill between ½ to 1 quart each tank fill. The interior is outdated and could use a facelift.
Howard Rowe 2024-04-25
My experience owning this vehicle has been disappointing due to excessive oil consumption. Despite having the oil changed, the oil light comes on after only 1000 miles, which the dealership has claimed is normal on multiple occasions. However, this level of oil consumption is unacceptable for a car in this price range. As a confident car owner, I expect my vehicle to perform at a high level and meet my expectations.