I just joined a few days ago and have been searching the forum for help and for the most part I found it to be helpful. However, I still have some questions and I could also use some clarification on a few other things.

First of all, I'm not a "car guy" so I apologize if some of my questions seem rather stupid, so please bare with me.

1. Anyway, I was very interested in an '04 Rx-8 last week, but after checking some things out online, it appears as though the '04 & '05 models are the ones to avoid, correct?

2. If that's true, are the improvements on the '06 and up models a lot better? Meaning, are the rotary engines a lot more reliable than they are in the first two models?

3. For all of the problems the car reportedly has, does it matter if you're driving an automatic or a manual transmission? Does either one act up more than the other? I'm asking because I've never driven a stick before, but if those are better, then I'll go out and practice before buying one (if they are in fact better).

4. I heard about the extended warranty that Mazda has given the '04-'08 models, but does the warranty still come into play if you buy it from a private owner (instead of a dealership). There aren't a lot of Mazda dealers near me and the (used car) dealerships around here don't have any Rx-8's (except for one and it doesn't have what I'm looking for). I'm sorry if this is a dumb question but I was unable to find an answer to this. With the reliability of the rotary engine in question, being able to have the warranty (if I can't find one from a dealer) would make me feel more secure in buying an Rx-8.

5. The Rx-8's that really caught my eye were the ones with the red & black leather interior. However, it seemed like most of them either had cloth or regular leather. My question is, can you buy the red & black leather from Mazda and install it yourself? I tried looking at the Mazda website, but couldn't find anything. But if I get an Rx-8, I'd really like it to have the R&B leather.

6. If I get one, I would only drive it eight or nine months out of the year (store it in the winter), BUT I literally only live about four minutes from where I currently work. I take it that this would be bad for the flooding problems that seem to frequently occur? If so, how long does it typically take before the engine is "warm" so that I can avoid turning off a cold engine and not risk flooding it?

I apologize for all of the questions, but this place seems like the easiest place to get my answers, so I'd appreciate it if you guys could help me. Thanks

 

1. A lot of people say this. If you do get an 04/05, as long as most of the TSB (service bulletins) have been done to the car, it should be fine. You can check on TSB's by asking the dealer, I believe. Carfax should have the information as well.

2. There are several improvements. I believe 06+ and up do not run a risk of dumping engine oil into the intake. Also, the starters and coils were improved from the previous models (the TSBs solve this for the 04/05). The AT version gets a 6 port engine (same as the manual) from 06 on. There's a few other changes that I do not remember at this time.

3. I do not believe there is a service difference between the two. There is, however, a speed/power difference. Depending on who you ask, it's either a lot or not so much. After all, the 06+ automatics have the same engine as the manuals. The main difference between them is the redline cutoff (7500RPM vs 9000RPM).

4. You must check on the carfax of the car. It will tell you how much longer you have on the warranty. Alternatively, call Mazda USA and provide them the VIN number. They will also tell you how much longer you have, and also if the warranty was voided. Otherwise, the warranty is transferable, I believe.

5. I do not believe you can purchase the two-tone seat material from Mazda. There may be a few people selling them on the forums. I am not very knowledgeable on this question.

6. Provided you have the 06+ model, flooding is almost a non-issue. Why I say almost is because **** happens. But with the updated starter, the 06+ models are very difficult to flood.

However, if possible, try to let the car warm up (needle of coolant to the middle for a few minutes). This is especially important if you need to rev your engine (i.e. run it to the redline). By warming up the engine, you allow your engine oil to reach their optimal temperature, and they will properly lubricate your engine. This is true of ALL engines.

If you are only driving it 4 minutes to work, and 4 minutes back from work, I'd advise you to take a scenic route once a day. Let it run for 10 minutes, bring it to a redline if possible (or at least above 7000rpms), and then take it home. It's a very enjoyable experience, and does wonders for maintaining your car.

 

My '05 has all appropriate TSB's applied, including the uprated starter/battery and is running as strong as ever. Actually better then ever with my relatively minor n/a mod's.

Keep in mind that folks with problems will always significantly out-post those who have none. Most '04/'05's are just fine.

 

+1 my 04 has all the TSB's done 73k miles on original engine and I dont see any problems in the near future....knock on wood lol.

 

I have an '04 and had the engine replaced at 55K miles. It was running great at the time and I brought it in for a minor problem and they swapped the engine. If you're not a car guy I recommend an '06 or newer just to be safe. Also if you want to get an automatic definitely get an '06 or newer. The stronger engine in the '06 auto is definitely worth it.

The warranty is transferrable unless for some reason the previous owner has voided the warranty. This could be the case if someone has done major modifications such as installing a turbo. Something like an intake and exhaust should not be a warranty issue.

My last piece of advice is get a car with the 3yr/36K bumper to bumper still active if you can. This will allow you to bring in the car for anything like little squeaks and rattles that you didn't notice before you bought the car. It's good piece of mind and allows you to make sure the car is up to date with all the TSBs etc. without the dealer fighting you.

 

Get the Automatic. It has better throttle response, and the lower redline gives better low end power. It is also equally fast, despite what others will say. Also, shifting an automatic transmission with buttons is way cooler than shifting a manual. Also knowing that your drivetrain is connected via fluid rather than metal can be very exciting.


The way the motor sounds from 7500-9000 is absolutely horrible anyway, so you won't miss that either.

 

Sarcasm FTL.

Stick = better.

 

+ 1 on what JinDesu said, the later model stick has 20 more HP then the auto

 

Thanks for all the help, especially JinDesu.

I really like the look of the Rx-8 and it would really stand out around here as most people are either driving Mustangs, a Honda of some sort, or an Eclipse.

 

You're welcome, this forum is a great place to get information!

 

Mu ha ha... what a fail.

Avoid all automatic transmissions unless it is an 08 or 09