CRD

I've been familiarizing myself with the RX8 for a couple of months and have spent the last week or so on the forum trying to get an understanding of issues related to the car before I purchase.

This forum is really amazing for detailing all the positive aspects of the car! I'm really sold. My question is what types of issues should I make sure are taken care of on the car itself before I buy? For example, I read about the M- Flash that all new cars are supposed to have now, but are there other issues I should be aware of? Yes, I know it's rotary, burns oil, needs to be checked regularly and that I need to be a responsible owner. I've learned about the performance aspects of the car and am pleased with them. That said I'm just an earnest newb, trying to educate myself and any info would be appreciated .

Also, I noticed the stereo system seems kind of unusual, has anyone found it difficult to replace with something locally strore bought?

Anybody pleased with an automatic? I think if I bought an AT I would always be thinking in the back of my mind about manual. Ok, thanks!

pret

if ur worried about recalls and current flash level, upon purchase go to your preferred service department and request them to check your vin. they should gladly schedule service to provide the free upgrade. in addition, i recommend finding a service department that has a certified rotary master mechanic on staff.

im not sure about the radio, check the audio and electronics section of this forum!

i hear good things from the ppl that have purchased the auto. if speed is your primary concern and you plan on performance modificaitons, then the manual is for you. it is really up to you. good luck with your purchase.

GiN

^^agreed.

In addition, the factory stereo system will not be easily replaced by a store-bought standard-sized headunit. You would need to get a custom face plate or mounting kit in order for an aftermarket stereo to fit and seat properly.

twisty7867

With no offense intended to the AT owners here, I can't imagine buying this car in an automatic. Not only do the HP go right out the window, but the base model gets totally nerfed - smaller wheels, cheaper suspension, etc. etc.

Do yourself a favor and go for the 6MT - I drive mine in LA traffic and I don't regret it for one second.

All things considered, I have the cheaper stereo and it's decent. similar in quality to the Infinity Kappa speakers I have with the factory stereo in my Escape. I wouldn't rush off to replace the stereo, especially with niceties like steering wheel controls on even the base model.

Kwullen

I haven't read any complaints about the leather interior. I decided against it, even though I like leather, because it's hard enough to keep this monster from slinging me out of the grippy cloth seats! I couldn't imagine staying in the leather, slick, seat on some of the corners I do on a regular basis. I'm looking at Corbeau replacements. Can't decide whether to do the seats first, or make them TOTALLY necessary with the suspension kit.............
Definitely go for the 6MT - YOU'LL LOVE IT!!

pret

i also have the 6MT. but i do symphatize with AT owners. not everyone feels as if they have to race on the street (nor should u be). also there are many of us that don't have anything to prove to others. nor do many 6MT owners take their car to the track. the AT, compared to other AT's of similiar price range does have SIGNIFICANT power. it might be MORE power then most people can handle. as far as smaller wheels, if i autox mine, wouldn't i want 17" wheels anyway? (not that i'd be autoxing the AT, just pointing out that for the application, the smaller wheels are fine). cheaper suspension? not cheaper.....

either the AT or MT are good vehicles. pick what is best for you. personally, i have the 6MT because i plan on performance mods and perhaps autox........

twisty7867

Sorry, a misstatement. A 'less-sport-oriented' suspension, tuned for better ride.

Nonetheless, my opinion holds, if you're wondering whether you should buy the 6MT - you're always going to be wondering that unless you actually buy it. As long as you're proficient at driving a MT vehicle and you don't spend every single day in stop and go traffic, I think you should go for it. It's not a significant cost factor, and you will never wonder "hmmm, what if I bought the AT...".

medic8

I'm very happy with my now 2 week old 6MT. All black leater interior, extra window tint, alum. scuff plates.

Drives like a dream.

Excellent presentation on delivery - not any problems with the car at all so far.

I too drive in heavy traffic (about 1/3 of the time). No problem with being manual. A very satisfying driving experience ALL THE TIME!!!

If you have made the big decision - then why are you waiting?

CRD

Thanks for the good info guys. Yeah, I'm thinking MT all the way. I was going sport package for sure, at which point uping to MT is moot from a cost standpoint. And since I want a performance car MT just makes sense, I was just wondering if any AT guys found it okay from a performance standpoint.

I'm not hearing anything to look out for as far as ECU patches, so I guess I'm clear for buying! Thanks again.