2004 Mazda RX-8
2004 Mazda RX-8
Overview
The 2004 Mazda RX-8 is a unique sports car celebrated for its rotary engine and balanced handling. While offering an engaging driving experience, its rotary powerplant, the Renesis, is known for specific maintenance requirements and potential reliability concerns if not properly cared for. Owners often report issues related to oil consumption, apex seal wear, and starting problems, particularly when the engine is hot. The manual transmission is generally robust, but the automatic can experience some wear. Other systems like suspension, electrical, and interior components are generally considered average for a vehicle of this age, with some common age-related issues.
Engine
1.3L Renesis Rotary (Naturally Aspirated)
Apex Seal Wear
- Symptoms: Loss of compression, rough idle, difficulty starting (especially when warm), reduced power.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement.
- Cost: $3,000 - $7,000+
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: High oil level checks required, potential for engine damage if oil level drops too low.
- Solution: Regular oil top-ups, ensure proper oil type is used, consider engine rebuild if excessive.
- Cost: $50 - $100 (for oil) / $3,000 - $7,000+ (for rebuild)
Starting Issues (Hot Start)
- Symptoms: Engine cranks but won’t start when warm.
- Solution: Can be caused by fouled spark plugs, fuel injector issues, or carbon buildup. Requires diagnosis and potential replacement of plugs, coils, or injectors.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Ignition Coil Failure
- Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of ignition coils and spark plugs.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
6-Speed Automatic
Torque Converter Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission fluid flush.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Standard System
Fuse Box Corrosion
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical failures, warning lights, non-functional accessories.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the fuse box.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating.
- Solution: Replacement of the window motor and regulator.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Exterior
Standard Body
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Standard Cabin
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Mazda RX-8 offers a unique driving experience, but its rotary engine demands diligent maintenance and can be a source of significant repair costs. Apex seal wear and oil consumption are the most critical concerns, often necessitating expensive engine rebuilds. While the manual transmission is generally reliable, the automatic may require attention. Other systems are less problematic, but electrical components like fuse boxes and window motors can fail. Prospective buyers should be aware of the rotary engine’s specific needs and potential for costly repairs, making thorough pre-purchase inspection and a commitment to regular maintenance crucial for ownership.