Hello All; I just purchased my Rx-8, 2006 Grand Touring, used with 20k miles, AT.

I have heard many people say to use 10w-30 instead of 20 and that its recommended by mazda all around the world except for the US because of gas mileage? What do you use for motor oil?

Also does anyone put small amounts of two stroke oil (3-6oz) to get more out of their 8?

I heard the car has problems in the cold, I live in Upstate NY, do you recommend a battery trickler, any other suggestions to help it cope in the cold?

How often should spark plugs be changed, and what is optimum mileage intervals for oil changes?; I felt like the dealer had no idea what they were talking about.

And does anyone's tire pressure light stay on, even though all tires are properly inflated?

I have an AT trans, comes with the nice paddle shifters on the wheel, I heard the rx-8 is best driven at higher revs above 4k and that it is better for the engine? Is this true, or will driving in normal AT mode where the rpms stay low hurt my car?


If anyone else has any other helpful information please post it; this is truly a well engineered car and I want it to last me.

 

10-30 is fine except in winter

Change plugs at 30k

Don't turn off a cold running car otherwise you will flood it

tire light comes on with certain conditions read the manual

Read the forumn

Do searches

You want to redline it once a day

 

Searching is your friend, and the senior members won't berate you either

Just try to be precise with your search terms, and you'll find ALL the answers you seek!

The stickies at the top of each section also help.

Welcome to the club, and enjoy your stay

Ed