2004 RX-8 Starting/ Shifting problems

TLDavid83 · 01-24-2009, 01:42 AM

I just got an 04 RX-8, AT with 45k miles. I had it sent home to my brother as I am headed overseas for a year and am unable to take it. He called me today and said that while he was driving it it felt as though it wasn't putting out much power. Then he said the gear indicator on the dash would fluctuate from four to two on its own. When he came to a stop it completely cut out on him and now it wont turn over when he goes to start it. I didnt do too much research on RX-8s prior to buying this one. I've just wanted one forever(or since 2003). Anyway, I've been on several forums now and I see a consistant amount of people saying they have the same problem...specifically with the 2004 model. Is this really a known problem and if so, what is the common fix? By the way, I'm new to the RX-8 as well as rotary engines if you can't tell. Any info/ advice would be greatly appreciated.

lilring · 01-24-2009, 09:55 AM

well I can tell you that the shifting problem is normal. I thought something was wrong with mine but I took it to the dealership and the master tech sad it was normal. Now the shutting down is a problem but I dont know what that could be. Good luck with fixing the problem. and thank you for serving for our country

Kane · 01-24-2009, 12:55 PM

Is this the first engine on this car? 04 Auto's are known for engine failures.....sorry for the bad news. Get a compression test done ASAP.

Jedi54 · 02-17-2009, 02:14 PM

2004 Auto? Those were a bit problematic when they first came out. It could be a carbon build up issue which has lowered the compression which means the engine could be going.

FORTUNATELY the rotary engine is warrantied for 8 years / 100,000 MILES so have your brother call the dealership and tell them he has "severe lack of power" (those are the key words) and they'll get him in for diagnostic

01-24-2009, 01:42 AM	#1
TLDavid83 The Newbie Join Date: Jan 2009 iTrader: (0) Posts: 1 Rep Power: 0	2004 RX-8 Starting/ Shifting problems I just got an 04 RX-8, AT with 45k miles. I had it sent home to my brother as I am headed overseas for a year and am unable to take it. He called me today and said that while he was driving it it felt as though it wasn't putting out much power. Then he said the gear indicator on the dash would fluctuate from four to two on its own. When he came to a stop it completely cut out on him and now it wont turn over when he goes to start it. I didnt do too much research on RX-8s prior to buying this one. I've just wanted one forever(or since 2003). Anyway, I've been on several forums now and I see a consistant amount of people saying they have the same problem...specifically with the 2004 model. Is this really a known problem and if so, what is the common fix? By the way, I'm new to the RX-8 as well as rotary engines if you can't tell. Any info/ advice would be greatly appreciated.

01-24-2009, 09:55 AM	#2
lilring Rotary Man Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Brentwood, TN iTrader: (0) Posts: 253 Rep Power: 17	well I can tell you that the shifting problem is normal. I thought something was wrong with mine but I took it to the dealership and the master tech sad it was normal. Now the shutting down is a problem but I dont know what that could be. Good luck with fixing the problem. and thank you for serving for our country __________________ 2005 Mazda RX-8 Velocity Red Mica - Daily Driver 2004 Mazda RX-8 Titanium Gray Metallic - RIP 1997 Mitshibishi Eclipse GST Black -Sold- RIP

01-24-2009, 12:55 PM	#3
Kane All about the O2 Join Date: Sep 2008 iTrader: (0) Posts: 295 Rep Power: 17	Is this the first engine on this car? 04 Auto's are known for engine failures.....sorry for the bad news. Get a compression test done ASAP. __________________ My 2007 Turbocharged RX8

02-17-2009, 02:14 PM	#4
Jedi54 Jedi Master Join Date: Oct 2008 iTrader: (0) Posts: 21 Rep Power: 0	2004 Auto? Those were a bit problematic when they first came out. It could be a carbon build up issue which has lowered the compression which means the engine could be going. FORTUNATELY the rotary engine is warrantied for 8 years / 100,000 MILES so have your brother call the dealership and tell them he has "severe lack of power" (those are the key words) and they'll get him in for diagnostic