Hi Everyone!

Just picked-up my new 07 RX8 6MT less than 2 wks ago. Is it normal to hear this slight grinding/clunking sound which last for 2-3 seconds from the left front area soon after shifting to 1st gear from engine start??? It seems to happen all the time regardless if the engine is cold or warmed up. I will probably bring this question up with the dealer, but just wanted to hear from fellow RX8 owners if this is normal or part of breaking in period.

 

I assume the clutch is fully disengaged? It's normal to hear a clunk when it clicks into 1st but not a two second clunk or grinding.

 

No this is not normal.

When exactly does it happen? As you release the clutch and start to move?

Sometimes there is a low sounding "thunk" when you first start to drive, but that is just the ABS, and it only lasts a split second, not 2-3 seconds like you stated. I've never heard a grinding noise.

 

Thanks for your response.

The so-called sound occurs soon after releasing the clutch while in 1st gear. It's actually more of a scraping/clanking sound.

BTW, I spoke to the service manager today at the dealership and he has never heard of such an issue. He has assured me that it has nothing to do with the engine or transmission. For the time being, I am just going to monitor it.

I got to thinking shortly afterwards, could it possibly have something to do with the Mazdaspeed cold air intake which was installed? Perhaps some sort of mechanical valve/flap opening?

 

If you let your car sit a minute after turning it on and before shifting into 1st, does it still make the sound? It really does sound like the ABS. It could just be your timing.

 

Sometimes you have to take what the service manager says with a grain of salt. They have been known to be mistaken, or not willing to investigate properly before