AndreyR

Hello everyone,

What I'm currently looking at is a 2004 rx8 m/t with 64k miles, asked price is $7k, private owner, autocheck shows score of 80. The guy doesn't know compression numbers and ignition system though, but agreed to take the car to a local mazda dealership.

Done a brief pre-purchase inspection and haven't found anything except paint oxidation on the rear (plus a minor dent). During test drive also noticed that engine coolant level warning light lit up, however owner claimed that it is only a faulty sensor. Other than that, the car starts and drives smoothly.

What else may I ask a mazda dealer to check except compression and what is the reasonable price for this car? Please don't blame, this is my first rotary car (have read stickies in this section).

Thanks in advance.

Chrishoky

iTrader: (9)

Seems like a good deal if the compression checks out. The coolant light could be due to the sensor that is a very common problem and can be fixed for about $200 at the dealer ($125 for the coolant tank and $100 labor). When the dealer does a compression test (it will cost about $200 for that) you will be given a set of numbers with a cranking RPM. The cranking RPM will give you an idea about how healthy the starter is as well. When you get the numbers, post them here along with the cranking RPM and we can tell you if your in good shape or not. A basic tune up on an rx8 (Plugs, wires, coils) can be done relatively easily at home and should cost about $250 in parts (the dealer will charge about $750 total),you can then use this for negotiations in the final price.

When at the dealership ask the history of the car and make sure all the latest flashes have been made to the ECU. Also, ask if the motor has ever been replaced in the past.

Also, ask the owner if he runs premix, how often he has done oil changes, and if he keeps up with adding oil in the interim (between oil changes)