I noticed a month or so ago i get a clanking noise when backing up that sounds likes its coming from the rear of my 2004 RX-8. Its quite loud and almost always happens. In the last couple of weeks I notice another not so obvious sound coming from the same area but this time it was if something was wrapped around the axel and striking the frame every second or so number of revolutions. I cant see anything obvious. Now about a week ago the CEL light came on and hasn't gone off. I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tight but it come on and stays on. Does anyone

1.) Know what any of these might be?
2.) Know of a good RX8 shop in the Northern Va area?
3.) Have any suggestions for self diagnostics or methods to track this down?
4.) Had or heard of any of these problems??

Thanks in advance.

Pull the DTC error code(s) and go from there. Find someone with an OBDII reader that is CAN bus-compatible. Maybe Autozone or Advance Auto.

Don't remember reading about such a problem here on the forum. As for a good shop, try PBC Automotive (http://www.pbcauto.com) located in Chantilly. Or, if you are still under warranty, take it to a dealer.