I bought a new, but early-VIN, RX-8 in June 2004 (Car manufactured in June 2003). It is a Sport model with Navigation. I just love it, but there were *many* things that needed to be addressed, and thanks to this forum, I've put together a quick "check list" for other RX-8 owners to use. I hope others will add to this list, as appropriate, to have one place to check to get their first-year RX-8 into great shape right away!

* A/C amplifier replacement b/c air blows warm/cold intermittently
* "M" Flash on the PCM, as per Mazda TSB
* Front rotor replacement b/c of deep grooves
* Oil pan replaced b/c of oil light coming on while driving
* Heat sheilding installed under center console
* Passengar side airbag recall campaign
* D/T Dynamic Damper recall campaign

My dealer, Doug's Mazda in Lynnwood WA, is great. No pushback on any of the repair requests. The A/C amplifier is on backorder so that repair is pending but everything else was addressed with no problems. However, I think the meticulous service log I keep make the whole ordeal very stright-forward and easy...

I've attached a copy of my service log as a sample as well. Feel free to adopt the format, or make improvements on it as you see fit. It seemed to be very, very effective with my dealer's service department. Good luck!

 

The service department took one look at the heavy grooves in my front discs and replaced them - no need for me to even ask. They did say it was a "one time only" replacement, but with 500 miles on the new discs they are clean with no grooves (and NO rust!).

 

Mine is also a Sport model(without nav, though) built in June 03. I've had the recalls done, ac amplifier done, and the M flash. I tried to get the center console heat shield TSB, but the dealer said they couldn't duplicate it. I never had a problem with the oil pan, and my brakes do have grooves in them, but I'm not worried about it. I am worried about my diff....man does she whine. It's the 2nd one too.

 

I also have a lot of whine and other noise - seems to be from the throwout bearing. ?? Hope it doesn't give me any problems. But, if it does, at least it's covered under warranty.