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RX-8 Symptoms and a Dealer visit -- Any suggestions?
My 2011 RX-8 has been having an issue with rough starting for the past several months. It starts up quickly, however it immediately misfires and sometimes sounds like it is only running on a single rotor (very rough idle). At the same time, there is an odd sweet odor around and inside the vehicle.
After running for a minute or so, it will clear up and operate normally at all RPMs and load factors. If I shut it off, it will start up with no issues and runs smooth.
In operation, I occasionally observe a gurgling sound from the glovebox area (heater core perhaps). I have also had to add a little bit of coolant as the coolant light came on a time or two.
I gave these details to the dealer and they told me that they could find no leaks. They did however pull the plugs and found that they were rusty. They recommended replacing the plugs and wires.
Did the dealer pressure test the cooling system? Do you see white smoke out of the exhaust on the cold starts?
Now that I think about it, they didn't specifically say that the pressure tested it. I do assume that is the procedure they used though as I don't know how else they would have arrived at the conclusion that it "isn't leaking".
Also, I do not notice white smoke. That is sort of odd isn't it?
Originally Posted by Dominarian
Is your temp gauge doing anything weird?
No, not at all. Also, the temps from my OBD scanner seem normal as well.
Last edited by jsight; 03-22-2016 at 01:30 PM.
Reason: Added another reply
Now that I think about it, they didn't specifically say that the pressure tested it. I do assume that is the procedure they used though as I don't know how else they would have arrived at the conclusion that it "isn't leaking"
They could have just done a visual inspection of coolant hoses/radiator/coolant bottle. Don't underestimate dealer laziness. Do you have pictures of the plugs?
I am not sure the size of coolant seal leak you need before you see appreciable white smoke. Maybe some more experienced members can chime in...
They could have just done a visual inspection of coolant hoses/radiator/coolant bottle. Don't underestimate dealer laziness. Do you have pictures of the plugs?
I am not sure the size of coolant seal leak you need before you see appreciable white smoke. Maybe some more experienced members can chime in...
Since I don't see it on the bill, that is a good point. I would really hope that they wouldn't do that in this case. Too bad that I didn't think to ask specifically.
Originally Posted by Dominarian
Do you ever see any of the coolant (since youa re having to add it) on the ground under the car?
No, I have never noticed any. Although the amount would have to be really small, I think.
Someone in another thread from a while back had similar issues.. I only captured a spall part of it though...
The dealer didn't say and I am not entirely sure how to confirm. Which rotor is "cylinder 1"?
I saw that thread earlier. Mine starts up much more easily and I do not have white smoke. That could just be an indication that the severity of mine isn't as high, though. The rest of the symptoms seem to fit.
Cylinder 1 is the front rotor. Changing the plugs and wires is definitely a good idea if they haven't been changed in a while. "Rusty" is a strange description, but I guess the brown gasoline deposits could look like rust.
I'm not sure what's to convince: if you lost coolant and they found no leaks, then this merits a pressure test to eliminate (or detect) internal leaks. That's literally the next logical step.
Cylinder 1 is the front rotor. Changing the plugs and wires is definitely a good idea if they haven't been changed in a while. "Rusty" is a strange description, but I guess the brown gasoline deposits could look like rust.
I agree, although I'm not sure that I'd have them do it. I am also really hesitant to do it at all when I'm pretty sure the engine is leaking coolant internally.
Originally Posted by Loki
I'm not sure what's to convince: if you lost coolant and they found no leaks, then this merits a pressure test to eliminate (or detect) internal leaks. That's literally the next logical step.
Yes, I need to find out why they didn't do a pressure test today actually. It seems logical to me as well.
Your engine is still under warranty, so if it needs be replaced, make sure it gets fresh ignition components. Maybe not at the dealer, as spark plugs and coils are way cheaper in the aftermarket.