OK - I just have a few:

- No AUX input into the stereo (for a portable music source)
- Very noisy with the sunrrof open
- Not too crazy about the steep angle that the sunroof stays at when it is open (maybe it will take some used to)
-and of course THE MILEAGE!

Drink holder is in the way of the gear shift (elbow hits), so putting two bottles of beer in there doesn't work.

Originally posted by TownDrunk
Drink holder is in the way of the gear shift (elbow hits), so putting two bottles of beer in there doesn't work.

Cupholders work fine for me, even with big cups there.. What bothers me is the seat heater buttons.. I always turn them on by accident.. it still gets in the 80's here in FL right about now..

So is that how Town Drunk got his name <G>

Putting in anything over 2 inches tall for me gets in the way. And yeah, not having a line input in this day and age of portable electronics is REALLY F6%$*%^ stupid.

And even though I dont smoke in my car my windshield on the inside still has to be cleaned every week or so because of something evaporating in the car and coating it. Havent been able to figure out why thats still happening and it's anoying.

Also, the trunk opening while large enough for anything I have needed to put in, is pretty tight. If the lip where lower it woulda made life so much easier.

Originally posted by TownDrunk
Drink holder is in the way of the gear shift (elbow hits), so putting two bottles of beer in there doesn't work.

My firts reaction what - that's funny and lol - but that's exactly what I had in there last night - two beers (me and girlfriend) Shiner Bock's!

I forgot - I was very disspointinted when my congas did not fit in there for the same reason that you mentioned - so they rode in the backseat - then one moved and scratched the center back console a little bit!

No they go in their bags before going in the bag. That's been the only time I have missed the Element.

the fan is loud on the highest setting when directed at the feet. sounds like you're in a wind tunnel.

the seat heaters dont get hot enough.

Originally posted by Quino
- Very noisy with the sunrrof open


1. What car isn't noisy with an open sunroof?

Top Ten Disappointing Things:

1. Fuel economy. Right now, I'm probably getting 17-19 mpg, but I've not started using my car for my 5-mile commute yet. I suspect it's gonna be bad when I start driving this car during the week. This is the only major disappointment to me so far.

2. Insufficient headroom. I'm only 6' tall, but the GT package decreases it to the point that my hair rubs the ceiling of the cabin. I don't think I could find room for a helmet if I wanted to autocross. I would not have bought this car if I were an inch taller.

3. Insufficient legroom. The driver's seat needs to be fully extended and partially reclined for me to be comfortable, so when I have a drivers-side rear passenger, one of us has to suffer.

4. No line input into the stereo head unit (of course). Come on Mazda! Don't they have portable music in Japan?

5. Price of tire sensors. They're supposed to be a safety device, not a profit point. Dealers should not be charging $100 each for them. Four hundred dollars is a lot to add to the cost of winter tires. Many have suggested the possibility of getting by without them, but don't count on this option for long. It's only a matter of time before retailers and tire shops refuse to mount tires on rims without the sensors when the shops realize the liability of what they're doing. As of Nov. 1, 2003, pressure sensors are a federally mandated safety feature in all U.S. cars, like seat belts and air bags.

6. Lack of themostat cabin control. I'm hot, I'm cold, I'm hot, I'm cold...

7. Dip stick is too hard to remove and reinsert. An underhood light illuminating the dip stick would help a lot, and might actually be cool.

8. Unable to delete prior destinations from NAV history. ("I don't know why the stupid NAV has an address in Milwaukee in its history, honey, really!")

9. Spare tire kit obscures trunk light. I'm stretching here. I don't even have a spare tire kit, but want to get to 10.

10. Everyone always stopping me and going on and on and on about my cool car... give me a break, people! I want to go drive!

Zoom Zoom. ;)

umm.. I only have one so far.

I have to get out of the car when I go to work! =)

Major gripe? Back seats...because with them, my girlfriend and I have to give her mother rides now and then. Her voice is that of a cat clawing on a chalkboard. The pitch of it gets higher and higher the more she talks, like that of the rotary engine, only thing is, the Renesis is fun to listen to and there is a damn good purpose behind it.

This is getting as good as the original "little things" post...

1. What car isn't noisy with an open sunroof?

The rx-8 is a bit louder when the sunroof is open than the other cars I've driven. For example, with a bmw it seems to have a little thing that pops up, which you can't even notice to dampen the noise a bit.

One thing I keep forgetting to try... can we close our windows/sunroof with the remote or buy using the key on the door handle? Sometimes I forget to close the sunroof and I close the door and walk out. I'm still trying to get used to the car, like I would press the up button on the widow and also the sunroof but i forget it's not one touch... then i walk out and i realize ... dang, it didn't close heh.

1. Keeping the car clean.
2. Windows should have automatic down as well as automatic up. Automatic close would have been nice on the sunroof.
3. Bose Stereo should be able to play mp3.

hmmmm......That's about it.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by meeh
[B]The rx-8 is a bit louder when the sunroof is open than the other cars I've driven.

Yeap - I agree - all my cars have had sunroofs and this is definetely the loudest - but not as annoyingas my girlfriend's Turbo Beetle - which has a low frequency vortex shedding (yes - I am an engineer) noise that sounds whoop-whoop-whoop... as you drive above 50...

And I agree with the auto up on the windows...

I H8 the fact that I have to walk by my 8 in the driveway and get in a 91 dented up Proteje to drive to work because the parking at my job sucks!! Potholes, huge dips, gravel lot, no marked spaces, yeah its hell. 4 years of engineering school for this!! No Respect!!!!

My biggest complaint about The little (dissapointing) things is all the TROLLS on this board stirring the pot and making the RX8 look bad.

Originally posted by renotse
My biggest complaint about The little (dissapointing) things is all the TROLLS on this board stirring the pot and making the RX8 look bad.

Dude - don't be so defensive - no one here has said anything (that) bad about the RX-8. As far as I can tell we all love this car. But it is not absolutely perfect - and what bothers one person (head room for example) - does not bother someone else...

It's just a dose of reality - no one is bashing...

Originally posted by renotse
My biggest complaint about The little (dissapointing) things is all the TROLLS on this board stirring the pot and making the RX8 look bad.

I'm planning to buy a new car in the next few months and have been checking out boards that talk about the alternatives I'm looking at. (G35, TSX, TL if you're wondering.) A thread like the first Little Things thread made me fall further in love with the RX-8, but this thread was even better because I now know that there's no show-stopper of a problem that will prevent me from buying an RX-8. Now to go and test drive the candidates ... Which brings me to these questions:

1. Anyone from San Diego have suggestions on good dealers?
2. Does the RX-8 have automatic climate control (auto temp)? Some photos show it does, some show it doesn't, and the specs sheet doesn't talk of it.

Originally posted by renotse
My biggest complaint about The little (dissapointing) things is all the TROLLS on this board stirring the pot and making the RX8 look bad.

SO far all the posts here are owners who love their cars. It's the simple truth. Now the trolls in general on the forums are a problem, but then again, wea rent talking about the disapointing things with the forums :D

Originally posted by desmo996
3. Bose Stereo should be able to play mp3.


It does..

Originally posted by rx-8_or_?
I'm planning to buy a new car in the next few months and have been checking out boards that talk about the alternatives I'm looking at. (G35, TSX, TL if you're wondering.) A thread like the first Little Things thread made me fall further in love with the RX-8, but this thread was even better because I now know that there's no show-stopper of a problem that will prevent me from buying an RX-8. Now to go and test drive the candidates ... Which brings me to these questions:

1. Anyone from San Diego have suggestions on good dealers?
2. Does the RX-8 have automatic climate control (auto temp)? Some photos show it does, some show it doesn't, and the specs sheet doesn't talk of it.

I believe the Euro/JDM RX-8's come with the Automatic climate control.. it didnt make it over here to the US.

Originally posted by Fuzzbear
I believe the Euro/JDM RX-8's come with the Automatic climate control.. it didnt make it over here to the US.

That makes me wonder if Mazda is saving that feature for the MY05 car. Anyhow, I have my 8 and I love it.

One little thing that I hate about the car is that I always have a hard time trying to drag my 17-mo old out of the car once she is inside it. She loves it!
:p

Originally posted by meeh
The rx-8 is a bit louder when the sunroof is open than the other cars I've driven. For example, with a bmw it seems to have a little thing that pops up, which you can't even notice to dampen the noise a bit. The '8 does have a little thing that pops up. Reach up when your sunroof is open and you can feel it at the leading edge of the sunroof. :) If you compress it down, you'll really see how much of a difference it makes (a lot!)

Oh, and troll posts WILL be summarily deleted from this thread.

Originally posted by Kaliken
umm.. I only have one so far.

I have to get out of the car when I go to work! =)


thats how I feel

Originally posted by desmo996
3. Bose Stereo should be able to play mp3.
Originally posted by Superfan
It does..
To piggyback onto this - the Bose DOES play MP3, as long as you've bought the MP3 CD-head.

Originally posted by rx-8_or_?

1. Anyone from San Diego have suggestions on good dealers?
2. Does the RX-8 have automatic climate control (auto temp)? Some photos show it does, some show it doesn't, and the specs sheet doesn't talk of it.

Don't know about dealers in San Diego, but the A/T does not have auto climate control. Don't think any of the 8's in North America has them.

Quino....did you say you had an element? As in the ugly POS element? Don't tell people that, they'll laugh.;)

"Quino....did you say you had an element? As in the ugly POS element? Don't tell people that, they'll laugh." - English

not to diss the element or whomever may have one, but that is funny lol

wish there was auto climate control
auto up AND down on both windows
auto close sunroof

thats pretty much it
________
Maine Marijuana Dispensary (http://maine.dispensaries.org/)

wish there was auto climate control also and if possible now, 5 sp auto.

Originally posted by rx-8_or_?
A thread like the first Little Things thread made me fall further in love with the RX-8, but this thread was even better because I now know that there's no show-stopper of a problem that will prevent me from buying an RX-8. Now to go and test drive the candidates ... Which brings me to these questions:

1. Anyone from San Diego have suggestions on good dealers?
2. Does the RX-8 have automatic climate control (auto temp)? Some photos show it does, some show it doesn't, and the specs sheet doesn't talk of it.

Glad you like the Little Things thread; I was the originator and I take pride in how it blossomed. Many people have been inspired to take the plunge and buy an '8 after reading it. My good deed for the day. :D

As far as SD dealers: The best dealer is the one who will give you the best deal. Figure out exactly what you want (options and colors), figure out exactly what you're willing to spend. Do this BEFORE visiting a dealer. Then visit them one-by-one, let them know you will buy at the first dealership that matches your specs and price (be reasonable on price but they seem to be going for little more that invoice by now -- I paid full MSRP in July.) Don't keep secret that you're shopping around; flaunt it. The instant they start to play any games, like adding stuff you don't want or naming a price then finding ways to jack it up, head for the door and on to the next dealer. At the next dealer, tell them what happened and that you're not afraid to do it again. Then they will take you seriously.

there are dealerships in Escondido, Mission Valley, El Cajon (I think), Nasty City Mile of Cars, maybe Car Country Carlsbad. Finally, don't forget about Long Beach/LA where it's not uncommon to see cars $1000 cheaper. Get a Saturday or sunday LA times and read the ads. If you find the right price, take it to a SD dealer to match. The instant they jack you around, leave. Get a friend to take you up north and buy there; you can often lock in a deal over the phone before heading up.

Last bit of advice, which many people seem to get hung up on: In no way are you obligated to take your car for servicing to the place you bought it. I bought at Cush in Escondido, but get service at Hine in MV. There is no such thing as "loyalty" to your salesman, however do be loyal to diligent and compentent service staff. Reward them with repeat business.

And that's my short story made long. Good luck in your decision.

a) Too small of a gas tank. Would prefer a 400+ mile cruise range

b) Nothing else comes to mind. Toatlly satisfied at 7,500 miles!

Originally posted by DeNile'
I H8 the fact that I have to walk by my 8 in the driveway and get in a 91 dented up Proteje to drive to work because the parking at my job sucks!! Potholes, huge dips, gravel lot, no marked spaces, yeah its hell. 4 years of engineering school for this!! No Respect!!!!

Hi DeNile',
Can't drive your RX-8 to work? Sounds like a good reason to look for another job :) . Are you working at the shipyard?

rx8cited

- Front grill/air dam does not have screens to protect oil coolers
- No auto window / sunroof down with remote
- Falling off door sills (need to get fixed under warranty)
- Small gas tank (18 or 20 gallons would be nicer)
- No auto climate control in US
- Front drink holders useless for drinks
- Side view mirrors a bit too small
- Oil dipstick return tube to short

But I still love my car! :D

rx8cited

hey, all this stuff gives the car "character"

In respnse to the noise from the sun roof being open.

My car already had the tinted shield for the sun roof. I first wanted it off, but gave it a try. It"s great. Not loud at all I can still talk and listen to my 3 year old in the back seat.

Its $45 and no drilling.

I wish they had a hook or clip for the gas cap to hang from the gas door instead of rest on the body panal.

Originally posted by -=Zeqs=-
Major gripe? Back seats...because with them, my girlfriend and I have to give her mother rides now and then. Her voice is that of a cat clawing on a chalkboard. The pitch of it gets higher and higher the more she talks, like that of the rotary engine, only thing is, the Renesis is fun to listen to and there is a damn good purpose behind it.

ROFLMAO

well to say it as the prototypical Software engineer would.. "they aren't bugs, they are features!"

Love my 8
1) Larger fuel tank
2) Fuel cap holder
3) Less plastic in leather seat option
Zoom Zoom

Originally posted by guy321
Cupholders work fine for me, even with big cups there.. What bothers me is the seat heater buttons.. I always turn them on by accident.. it still gets in the 80's here in FL right about now..

Why???

In the REAL little things thread we talked about how the heated seats are sensitive to outside temp. They won't heat up, or not much, if it is warm out. That's why many of us thought our heated seats were defective in the summer, but enjoy them now that its getting cooler. so quit yer bitchin' and enjoy watch ya got. :-)

Regarding noise from the sunroof, I (and many others) observed just the opposite. It's darn quiet, and I don't even have the add-on deflector. Up to about 35 mph, i don't hear the wind noise at all; a couple of times I've had to reach up to make sure it was really opened. From 35-50 mph, I can hear it, but not bad. Above 50 I'll probably shut it unless I'm feeling particularly rambunctious that day. By far it is the quietest I've ever had; our 323 for instance is annoying above maybe 25 mph.

Originally posted by rx8cited
- - Front drink holders useless for drinks
Um, you're supposed to put the drink in a cup first. :D
My little things that could be improved (limited to things that can be added, rather than things like "better mileage"):

1. A line-in jack on the stereo -- c'mon Mazda, how hard would it be to make a module to fit where the cassette player goes that has a 1/8" stereo jack on it? And add the line-in jack to the cassette deck and the MD deck while you're at it.

2. Automatic climate control -- we KNOW you can do this!

3. Let us decide for ourselves what options we want! I don't want a sunroof and would really like the headroom back, but to get the Leather and Nav I had to take a sunroof. :mad:

4. A light that illuminates the oil dipstick tube when the hood is open would be welcome.

5. Auto up/down windows (both sides).

6. Integrated cell phone that works as an auto-answer speakerphone through the stereo system.

7. An accessory power jack that stays powered up at all times.

8. Real gauges, including oil temp.

9. A truly functionl trip computer.

Well, that's my list, and I had to think hard to come up with 9 items! This is a great car!

Off topic, but I gotta comment on your sig, bobclevenger:
"Freedom means letting other people do things you don't like"

I disagree. Privilege is letting others do what you don't like. Freedom is the ability to pursue the things you do like.

Maybe we don't like to work, but we have to. That doesn't mean you're not free, but it does mean you're not privileged. On the other hand, the job brings the money to pursue your real interests, which is a liberty many in the world don't have.

1) Mileage is less than ideal
2) The car is suppose to burn a little oil, but Mazda made the oil dip stick both hard to get at and difficult to read
3) Not enough guages for my taste. And, the oil pressure one never moves.
4) Bigger than expected blind spots.
5) along the roof line, about two inches from the edges (along the doors), is a metal like strip (about 1 inch wide) that seems useless, moves a little, and is a pain to wash. Seems cheap on an otherwise good body design
6) Oil Coolers do not have a protective screen - though love the location.
7) The metal looking runners down each side of the center consule seem like they could get bent/damaged by accident.
8) The front seat belts look like they can be plugged into the back seat retainers - and my wife (while buckling in my 5 yr old the other day) almost did this - when I yelped no (recalling another tread horror story).
9) Not enough leather in the leather seats. What is that ribbed material on the sides?
10) The gas tank is too small. I think every car should be able to go 300 miles on a tank - minimum.

Those are my ten. Still - the car goes zoom zoom - a kick to drive.

Is it just me, or is this thread degenerating from constructive ideas for future RX-8's into a general bitch session? Maybe i'm just being too sensitive. Look guys, i think everyone here likes the '8... so don't just gripe about what you don't like (that drives me nuts in real-life, not just here.) Say in a more positive sense what you'd like to see in '05 and beyond.

I'd like the correct fuel maps

Cupholders just a little deeper so you can close it with a can in it.
A real EQ for the stereo.
Double shoulder seatbelts.

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
so don't just gripe about what you don't like (that drives me nuts in real-life, not just here.)

Um, sorry you're so dissapointed, but the title of this thread is ......... "The little (dissapointing) things" ;)

Why do you chose to read this thread if you're so sensitive to us posting our dissapointments :confused: ?

rx8cited

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
Say in a more positive sense.

The 8 is awesome at collecting brake dust on the front wheels.;)

Originally posted by Zeltar

5) along the roof line, about two inches from the edges (along the doors), is a metal like strip (about 1 inch wide) that seems useless, moves a little, and is a pain to wash. Seems cheap on an otherwise good body design


Does anyone know what these strips are for? Expansion joints? I've never seen a car with anything like them.

Why does the interior black pieces scar for life with a typical household vac?

Hey guys,
I got my nortic green a/t 8 yesterday (12/5/03) and I absolutely love it. I've put over 200 miles on it in since 5pm yesterday! When your reading my gripes about the car, keep in mind that I lOVE MY 8, and my parents have a lexus gs300 and a bmw 745Li, so i'm a little spoiled on features.

1. Auto down and up windows and sunroof.
2. auto climat control
3. maybe this is just for the A/T, but revving between 1-4k rpm is very slow compared to reving between 4-8k (actually ive only gone to 6.5k b/c of break in period, but i can assume that reving only gets faster)
4. auto headlights and wipers (ok, the auto wipers are too much for a 30k car, but they would be cool)
5. small sideview mirrors and big blind spots
6. line in audio jack

remember, i am spoiled from all the features of my fathers bmw 745Li, and i still LOVE MY 8.

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
In the REAL little things thread we talked about how the heated seats are sensitive to outside temp. They won't heat up, or not much, if it is warm out. That's why many of us thought our heated seats were defective in the summer, but enjoy them now that its getting cooler. so quit yer bitchin' and enjoy watch ya got. :-)

its been frigid in nj the last few days and the seat heaters still suck. any questions?

Originally posted by RX-GR8
its been frigid in nj the last few days and the seat heaters still suck. any questions?

Yeah, why don't you live in San Diego where we've got civil weather. :D

Originally posted by ndsind1
Hey guys,
I got my nortic green a/t 8 yesterday (12/5/03) and I absolutely love it. I've put over 200 miles on it in since 5pm yesterday! When your reading my gripes about the car, keep in mind that I lOVE MY 8, and my parents have a lexus gs300 and a bmw 745Li, so i'm a little spoiled on features.

1. Auto down and up windows and sunroof.
2. auto climat control
3. maybe this is just for the A/T, but revving between 1-4k rpm is very slow compared to reving between 4-8k (actually ive only gone to 6.5k b/c of break in period, but i can assume that reving only gets faster)
4. auto headlights and wipers (ok, the auto wipers are too much for a 30k car, but they would be cool)
5. small sideview mirrors and big blind spots
6. line in audio jack

remember, i am spoiled from all the features of my fathers bmw 745Li, and i still LOVE MY 8.

I think I speak for most here when I say WE ALSO LOVE THIS CAR, but there's always room for improvement and to me that's what this thread is all about.

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
Yeah, why don't you live in San Diego where we've got civil weather. :D

i would if i could man. but then i'd have to route for the padres, chargers and sharks. :)

1. Poor adhesive on the silver RX-8 emblem on the door kick plate. One of mine disappeared a couple weeks ago, the dealer replaced them both with better adhesive this time.

2. I've seen this gripe already but, just like 1/2" more and a can of soda could fit in the drink holder with the door closed. Wouldn't that be great!

3. Seat belt easily scratches the silver on the console. I have two ugly scratches on mine already! They are black and really are an eye sore against the silver. I've only had mine a few weeks. I would imagine it will have hundreds of big scratches as the years go by!

4. Full flip down seats in the the back (why not?).

5. Factory installed blind spot mirrors, bacause face it you can't see sh*t on either side or behind you, especially the drivers side!

6. Spare tires in all the RX-8's from the factory. I couldn't believe it when I found out I had no spare tire! Not even a doughnut! THIS SHOULD BE STANDARD (PERIOD).

7. And I'll add to everyone elses... How about an AUX input jack on the stereo system!? Somebody needs to come up with a mod for this one. I know there are plenty of Electrical Engineers on here that could figure out where to solder the wires inside the stereo then install a mini-jack on the dash somewhere. Heck, maybe I'll try to figure it out.

I still love this car though!!! ,Lewis

Originally posted by red_rx8_red_int
Does anyone know what these strips are for? Expansion joints? I've never seen a car with anything like them.

The shop manual calls them "roof molding".
They cover a weld joint between the roof panel and the quarter panel/a-c pillar section.

Mazda couldn't/shouldn't/wouldn't make the whole upper of the vehicle one big piece of sheet metal. That would make it real hard to manufacture and extremely hard to repair after a collision.
Every car I've owned has had these (with the exception of my 1970 Dodge Challenger - it had a roof panel that welded on at the base of the A and C pillar).

Originally posted by RX-GR8
i would if i could man. but then i'd have to route for the padres, chargers and sharks. :)

Ohh - great comeback!

Originally posted by LRTRX8
1. Poor adhesive on the silver RX-8 emblem on the door kick plate. One of mine disappeared a couple weeks ago, the dealer replaced them both with better adhesive this time.

2. I've seen this gripe already but, just like 1/2" more and a can of soda could fit in the drink holder with the door closed. Wouldn't that be great!

3. Seat belt easily scratches the silver on the console. I have two ugly scratches on mine already! They are black and really are an eye sore against the silver. I've only had mine a few weeks. I would imagine it will have hundreds of big scratches as the years go by!

4. Full flip down seats in the the back (why not?).

5. Factory installed blind spot mirrors, bacause face it you can't see sh*t on either side or behind you, especially the drivers side!

6. Spare tires in all the RX-8's from the factory. I couldn't believe it when I found out I had no spare tire! Not even a doughnut! THIS SHOULD BE STANDARD (PERIOD).

7. And I'll add to everyone elses... How about an AUX input jack on the stereo system!? Somebody needs to come up with a mod for this one. I know there are plenty of Electrical Engineers on here that could figure out where to solder the wires inside the stereo then install a mini-jack on the dash somewhere. Heck, maybe I'll try to figure it out.

I still love this car though!!! ,Lewis

I'll try to help here

1. New model, rushing to get them out, at least the dealer
is resolving.

2. I don't drink in the car, so it is a non issue to me.

3. two months and no scratches, try to be more careful.

4. Structural rigidity was required due to the freestyle doors
there is a support structure behind the seats.

5. Not needed, to adjust the mirrors on the RX-8 (and any car)
Place your head against the driver side window, and adjust
the mirror until you can just see the end of the car. Lean the
same amount to the right and adjust the passenger side mirror.
Try it it works.

6. I prefer to NOT have a spare tire, and my guess is Mazda
research determined a lot of people feel the same.

7. no comment.

Originally posted by xXxRx8xXx
URL deleted Make sure you got the BEST deal on your RX-8. :)

Don't click on the above URL -- it's a stupid spammer trying to get you into his game -- the URL will redirect you right into his game.

gas mileage
warming engine
BUT all worthit cuz I love this car....it's fun and it's so awesome to look at in and out! It also has a back seat that is usable!!!

Originally posted by RX-GR8
its been frigid in nj the last few days and the seat heaters still suck. any questions?

Hi RX-GR8,

My be yours are bad but I had a few thoughts

1) Are you wearing something heavy like a jacket when driving with the seat heaters on? I drive with no jacket/coat on and the seat heater gets me warm enough that usually after 10 minutes I turn it off.

2) Try turning on the passengers side heater too - then put your hand on it after a few minutes and see if it feels warm. If so, pull over, sit in the passengers seat for a few mintues (with no jacket), then back to the drivers side and see if there's a difference.

Otherwise , I guess take it to the dealer if you have not already done so.

Good luck,
rx8cited

The only negative thing to say so far is that I don't have mine yet....:-( Soon, though:-)

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by 8_wannabe
Say in a more positive sense.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Originally posted by Rick
The 8 is awesome at collecting brake dust on the front wheels.;)


Now THAT made me laugh out loud.

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
Off topic, but I gotta comment on your sig, bobclevenger:
"Freedom means letting other people do things you don't like"

I disagree. Privilege is letting others do what you don't like. Freedom is the ability to pursue the things you do like.

Maybe we don't like to work, but we have to. That doesn't mean you're not free, but it does mean you're not privileged. On the other hand, the job brings the money to pursue your real interests, which is a liberty many in the world don't have.

I understand what you mean 8_wannabe, but I think his thinking goes along the lines of "I might not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." << this is the freedom our country is built on.
Kudos Bob!

Originally posted by RedJade
I understand what you mean 8_wannabe, but I think his thinking goes along the lines of "I might not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." << this is the freedom our country is built on.
Kudos Bob!

maybe so. So what you're saying is, you have freedom if you can do what you want even if I don't like it.

I took it to mean, if there was something that had to be done and I didn't like to do it then I could have someone else do it for me. Which is why I called it "privilege". (you know, the rich/privileged class get working stiffs to do the things they don't want to do themselves.

The guy who posted the sig had a third definition, different than both of ours so I guess we're both wrong. I'll have to look up again what he said.

Originally posted by ndsind1

5. big blind spots


Not if the side mirrors are positioned correctly.

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
maybe so. So what you're saying is, you have freedom if you can do what you want even if I don't like it.

I took it to mean, if there was something that had to be done and I didn't like to do it then I could have someone else do it for me. Which is why I called it "privilege". (you know, the rich/privileged class get working stiffs to do the things they don't want to do themselves.

The guy who posted the sig had a third definition, different than both of ours so I guess we're both wrong. I'll have to look up again what he said.

This is SO off-topic. I tried to keep it to e-mail. But since folks seem to want to talk about it, here's what I mean: True freedom has to work both ways. If you want freedom, you have to let others have it too, even if you don't like what they do.

Have I made myself clear?

-The fact I cannot live in it (zoning laws)
-The fact I cannot drive it directly into my office and work in it
-The fact I am unable to stop them from making more of the cars so mine remains the rarity that it is
-The fact I can't afford two of them so I have another when the first wears out
-The fact I can't make it sunny and 70 degrees in St. Louis everyday so I can wash and shine it whenever I want
-The fact that I now have to allow extra time for shopping, gas, etc. because inevitably someone walks up to talk to me about the car
-The fact I had to wait so long for a car that was fabulous, different and fits me to a T!!

Gosh......I have it rough :)

Originally posted by RX-GR8
i would if i could man. but then i'd have to route for the padres, chargers and sharks. :)

Instead of the eagles, sixers,flyers and phils.....

This year is the eagles and flyers year!!

Originally posted by red_rx8_red_int
Does anyone know what these strips are for? Expansion joints? I've never seen a car with anything like them.

They hide the missing HP and MPG..

Originally posted by RX-GR8
i would if i could man. but then i'd have to route for the padres, chargers and sharks.

Route is right, but you might mean root in this case. ;)

But at least our beloved Chargers improved their season record by 50 percent today. they now have 3 in the "W" column. woohoo!

Originally posted by Maniac
The shop manual calls them "roof molding".
They cover a weld joint between the roof panel and the quarter panel/a-c pillar section.The underlying seam can also be used as the mounting point for roof racks. I have seen a Titty Grey '8 around town with a Yakima (I think) roof-mounted bike rack. Looks a little weird, but obviously a practical solution.

Originally posted by klegg
They hide the missing HP and MPG..
:D LOL ROTFLMAO I'll have to look for them there!

About the only peeve I can come up with is that there's no ledge to rest your left arm on.

Seeing as though this thread is degenerating into something else, here is my feeble attempt to restore law and order:

*Auto-locking doors when key in ignition.....haven't seen anyone mention that, but NOT auto-unlock due to security reasons.

*Storage in dash if you don't have Nav system.

*cell phone holder/storage....just some logical place to put it within easy reach and easy access to power, present options are not that easy.

*Hanger hooks - where to I hang a jakcet or suit from? or is there one and I'm just a moron and haven't seen it.

*one-button auto close for sunroof so I don't have to hold switch.

*Could have added one more storage bin in the overhead just behind the overhead cabin lights. can't have too much storage space.

*Sunroof switch illumination, can't see crap in the dark.

that all for now!

Originally posted by oosik
*cell phone holder/storage....just some logical place to put it within easy reach and easy access to power, present options are not that easy. check this thread (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=14846&highlight=cell+phone+install) to see how I did it.

Originally posted by melikeRX8
Why???

It came with them as a package... besides, I just got back from VA and it felt good to have a toasty butt.. I just don't use them 85% of the time.

*Auto-locking doors when key in ignition.....haven't seen anyone mention that, but NOT auto-unlock due to security reasons.

I think it should be speed sensing. When your wheels starts to roll at a certain speed door locks. So when drop someone out andy they open the door, it locks again when you take off. I wish that you can pull the door handle and it will unlock, like how the german cars do it. Actually i think lexus does this also, but i could be wrong.

These should be programmable on the key.

I agree about needing a light where the sunroof button is and making it just a single tilt/slide combo button.. don't know why there is 2.

Streering wheel should be telescopic.

Rain sensing wipers.

Ability to add oil without removing the engine cover. The location where the dipstick is awkward.

Added functionality to the onboard computer, such as: MPG consumption average. How much mileage is left on the fuel tank. Based on your driving condition and your driving style, how much mileage before your next service. etc...

The only gripe i have with the car is the ugly radio display. And for us w/o the nav system, couldn't they have converted that big bulge into another storage compartment? seems like such a waste for such lovely space that can be put into a thousand new uses. No need to punish us poor blokes who didn't shell out 2k for a nav system. I'll probably end up putting a dvd player in there, if i can find a local modder who can do the new Mazda displays (mazda6, mazda3, and rx8 all share the same weird radio display thingy btw)
Also, the car needs a "get-the-hell-away-from-my-car-and-dont-you-put-your-oily-fingers-on-my-newly-washed-windows" button on my keyring. i can't tell you how many times i walked out of the mall, work, school, strip... i mean church to find ppl clawing at the windows to look inside and just plain putting their nasty hands on my baby. It would zap them with a small electrical charge.

if the car is already locked hit the lock button on your keyfob and the horn will beep. wait for them to touch the car and it has more of an impact.

The horn is so loud, it would probably be a "little disappointing" for them when they soiled themselves (Sorry, tried to keep it on topic).

i'd much rather see em fried.... i can warn em with the horn after i burn their hair.... I FRIGGIN HATE FINGER MARKS ON MY BABY

The button to pop the trunk is akwardly located. Not a deal-breaker.

Originally posted by RX_Paranoid
The only gripe i have with the car is the ugly radio display. And for us w/o the nav system, couldn't they have converted that big bulge into another storage compartment? seems like such a waste for such lovely space that can be put into a thousand new uses. No need to punish us poor blokes who didn't shell out 2k for a nav system.

I thought the same thing. I test drove an 8 with the nav, and expected the 8s without the nav to have a depressed section there to place things. I was very disappointed to see the space is totally lost. Now after logging 8k miles, I've come to realize that it would be dangerous to have an uncovered storage depression there. I would have thrown whatever was there hundreds of times. This car is a toss about. They could have made a mini glove box there, but that would have raised prices (or decreased profits).

I set my cell phone up there in front of the Nav screen. Pretty handy place, easy to reach........Except everytime you get on it, the phone is on the floor or in the pass seat. After 3 times I found another spot :)

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
Last bit of advice, which many people seem to get hung up on: In no way are you obligated to take your car for servicing to the place you bought it. I bought at Cush in Escondido, but get service at Hine in MV. There is no such thing as "loyalty" to your salesman, however do be loyal to diligent and compentent service staff. Reward them with repeat business.


Thanks for the information and advice 8_wannabe. My question was really directed towards servicing - who do you think does a good job in the San Diego area? No harm in giving them a shot at selling me the car ...

I thought the same thing. I test drove an 8 with the nav, and expected the 8s without the nav to have a depressed section there to place things. I was very disappointed to see the space is totally lost. Now after logging 8k miles, I've come to realize that it would be dangerous to have an uncovered storage depression there. I would have thrown whatever was there hundreds of times. This car is a toss about. They could have made a mini glove box there, but that would have raised prices (or decreased profits).

Doesn't the mazda 6 , have that? I've ridden on a 6 and that area where the NAV is has an empty spot where you can put stuff.

Originally posted by ptiemann
The button to pop the trunk is akwardly located. Not a deal-breaker.

hi ptiemann,
So where would you suggest they put it for future models?

rx8cited

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
But at least our beloved Chargers improved their season record by 50 percent today. they now have 3 in the "W" column. woohoo!

looks like another high draft pick. they need a QB.

Originally posted by Sea Ray
I set my cell phone up there in front of the Nav screen. Pretty handy place, easy to reach........Except everytime you get on it, the phone is on the floor or in the pass seat. After 3 times I found another spot :)

Exactly!!

ok you have one of the coolest cars on the road and your complaining about drinks in the cupholder getting in the way, and the "NOISE" is to loud with the sunroof "OPEN." I dont allow any drinks or food in mine, and when I got the sunroof with mine I expected that the wind noise at 80+ mph or 35 mph even, would be a little noisy. Its a sports car, if you want convinient cup holders and less noisy sunroofs(theres no such thing), you should have bought a luxury car.

Originally posted by mazdaman
ok you have one of the coolest cars on the road and your complaining about drinks in the cupholder getting in the way, and the "NOISE" is to loud with the sunroof "OPEN." I dont allow any drinks or food in mine, and when I got the sunroof with mine I expected that the wind noise at 80+ mph or 35 mph even, would be a little noisy. Its a sports car, if you want convinient cup holders and less noisy sunroofs(theres no such thing), you should have bought a luxury car. That's exactly the point of this thread. The annoying things are SO SMALL.
And I only have the sunroof because I wanted the leather, and I could only get it with the whole GT package -- sunroof and all. Personally I would prefer the increased headroom over the sunroof that I never open.

Originally posted by bobclevenger
I would prefer the increased headroom over the sunroof that I never open.

How come you never open it? I find that to be one of the greatest pleasures of driving the '8 plus the whole point in living in California. Just wondering...

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
How come you never open it? I just don't like to have the sun beating down on my head. Had enough of that every summer before I retired! If it's hot out I run the a/c; if it's cool out I close the windows; if it's cold out I run the heater. I also don't really like the wind blowing everything in the car around.
But these are just MY opinions, yours may be very different. That's why I wish Mazda (and everybody else!) would let us choose our options one-at-a-time.

Originally posted by bobclevenger
That's why I wish Mazda (and everybody else!) would let us choose our options one-at-a-time.

Can't argue with that. Viva la difference.

Originally posted by bobclevenger
That's why I wish Mazda (and everybody else!) would let us choose our options one-at-a-time.

bobclevenger ,

And you'd like Mazda to offer this custom made car at mass production price too, right? :). Why not skip the Mazda and go for one of those exotic, custom, hand-made automobiles? Oh, too expensive, I see! :D

rx8cited

Originally posted by rx8cited
And you'd like Mazda to offer this custom made car at mass production price too, right? :). Why not skip the Mazda and go for one of those exotic, custom, hand-made automobiles? Oh, too expensive, I see!

C'mon, its not that unreasonable. Virtually every manufacturer does this. We all know you get options "cheaper" in a package like the Grand Touring. But if you'd like to order a al carte, you pay a bit more piece by piece but lower total price cuz you're not getting all the doodads. They could do it if they want, and price it accordingly. Then its up to consumers if their willing to bear the price. Just imagine: Leather without sunroof. sunroof without Bose. The possibilities are staggering. :D

And heck, even if the "have to" package the way they do for cost, why can't they at least offer a sunroof "delete" option? I cannot see why they can build a SP car without a roof, yet build a GT car with one. I mean, they build them that way for Canada and Europe! WTF!!! :<

Originally posted by rx8cited
And you'd like Mazda to offer this custom made car at mass production price too, right? :). Why not skip the Mazda and go for one of those exotic, custom, hand-made automobiles? Oh, too expensive, I see! :D

rx8cited

The unfortunate thing about bundling the moonroof with the other items is that a large percentage of potential customers are then excluded from the entire list of options due to physical limitations (headroom). I'm 5'10" and could feel my scalp brushing the headliner (seat all the way down). Sure, I could have moved the seat further back and reclined but I'm not about to sacrifice an effective driving position not to mention the rear seat. And even if other drivers fit with no problems -- what happens if you need to transport a tall passenger? The moonroof is a neat option but given the available headroom it's not an option at all for many customers. Why exclude so many folks from the rest of that option list? Money out the door, imo.

Exactly Nubo.

Mazda, just offer a d@mn moonroof-delete option!! Just one little checkbox!!!!

Some things I would like:

1. Climate control - it has been done in other countries, big minus.

2. Auto up/down on both driver and passenger windows.

3. Auto open/close for the rear vent windows.

4. Auto wiper delay - my RSX would delay the wipers while the vehicle was stopped, a really nice feature.

5. Stereo line-in.

6. Give me a break on the Mazdaspeed prices...what, does everything really cost $200.00?

7. A quality AT that can handle the 238 hp engine...not a problem for other companies.

Hey, no car is perfect. There will always be something that people will want that is/was not thought of when the vehicle was designed.

RJ

Only suggestion I have to add is issue a key/remote combo like the BMW has so I dont have to carry a bulky remote and a key

:)

I can only think of 1 thing: The fact that the doors don't like to stop at the detents and stay open. i am forever dodging the door as it tries to slam shut on me.

I think the shifter knob is too narrow in "diameter" and too tall. I'd rather they chopped .5 to .75 inch off the top.

I second the rear doors not staying open. ANNOYING. (Bonk)

great topic
Let me start by saying I love my car, but below are some of things that I would have like fixed.
1- Oil dip stick location is not the best
2- Would prefer an auto-up for both windows
3- Gas tank too small, considering 16 mpg, I get to spend quality time with nice lady working in the gas station
4- seat heater switch can get bumped accidently
5- Trunk release lever hard to find
6- cig. lighter socket in back seat is not standard
7- Seat warmers do not put out enough heat.
8- No auto temp control- too cold or too hot
9- fog lights are not bright.
10- could use a warning beep while rear door is open to prevent accidental crash of front and back door. I think I am reaching.......
11-hard to find dome light switch at night. Probably should prtude out so it can be found
12- Ok finally, back seats do not support casual sex with the gas lady while waiting for fill up.

Hope this helps

Mark

Originally posted by Genom

And yeah, not having a line input in this day and age of portable electronics is REALLY F6%$*%^ stupid.

What OEM auto mfg (not aftermarket) includes a line input to their stereo? I know of none so there is no standard for which to judge this !

And even though I dont smoke in my car my windshield on the inside still has to be cleaned every week or so because of something evaporating in the car and coating it. Havent been able to figure out why thats still happening and it's anoying.

The film forming on your windshield is caused by the chemicals in the plastics and vinyls used in the production the dasboard that are outgassing into the air when heated up by the sun beating on the dash and depositing on the inside surface of the car. It is more prevelent on the windshield because it is directly above the dash and the gasses leach out of the plastics and rising up onto the glass. The Germans actualy did a study about the harmful effects of the chemicals and you as a passenger breathing them in! I never herad if the study was completed or not!

Originally posted by rx8cited
Hi DeNile',
Can't drive your RX-8 to work? Sounds like a good reason to look for another job :) . Are you working at the shipyard?

rx8cited

Yeah that is what I suspect! And the traffic down there really sucks! It's like driving thru a perpetual construction zone!

Originally posted by ptiemann
The button to pop the trunk is akwardly located. Not a deal-breaker.

Isn't it though?? That drives me nuts every time I reach down there to find that damn thing. I dig around for about 10-15 seconds before my finger finally hits it. Why do they think they need to "hide" something that is that commonly used.

Other gripes of mine:

1. A/C totally sucks.

2. Blower for HVAC is WAY too loud and I can't ever seem to get the air directed where I want it.

3. A/C compressor runs with the heat on and air directed at floor. Why? I should be able to hit the A/C button and turn the compressor on myself if I want dry air.

4. Takes forever for the cabin to warm up in cold weather. About 15 minutes of freezing before I start getting warm.

5. What is up with all of the brake dust?? I wash my car and 2 days later the front rims are covered. I love how awesome the brakes feel though, so I guess the horrible dust is a trade-off.

6. Brakes are starting to squeal during moderate braking effort.

7. Having to take that engine cover off just to check/add oil is stupid.

8. Passenger seat back does not return to the previously "programmed" spot when flipping the seat forward to let rear passengers in. This is a major pain in my ass every morning getting my daughter in and out of the back seat.

9. Cupholder should have a removeable tray of some kind in the bottom that can be taken out and cleaned. I have slopped some coffee in there a couple of times, and cannot get it all cleaned out of those glued-in-place foam inserts. Very stupid design.

10. No matter what.....after 6500 miles of driving.....can't seem to get the best feel for taking off in 1st gear. Either too low RPM's and lugging (almost stalling) the engine, or up over 2 grand feeling like I am burning the clutch up. I have never had this problem with any other manual tranny car I have owned. Maybe it is the drive-by-wire system on this car giving me more of a disconnected feel?

11. Hard to slide right into 6th gear some times.

Originally posted by Rotary Nut
What OEM auto mfg (not aftermarket) includes a line input to their stereo? I know of none so there is no standard for which to judge this !
Actually, the OEM premium Infinity system in my 3000GT has an aux line in on the head unit face. Works great for my MP3 player.

Originally posted by Omicron
I can only think of 1 thing: The fact that the doors don't like to stop at the detents and stay open. i am forever dodging the door as it tries to slam shut on me. Front, back, or both?
My doors (both front and rear) stay open just fine, unless parked on an incline. Perhaps you ought to ask your dealer about this.

Originally posted by Rotary Nut
What OEM auto mfg (not aftermarket) includes a line input to their stereo? I know of none so there is no standard for which to judge this ! My 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230k coupe had this. It worked very well.

Originally posted by 91vert
7. Having to take that engine cover off just to check/add oil is stupid. Yes, I would prefer not to have to remove the cover to add oil, but I can check oil without removing the cover. What purpose does the cover serve, anyway?

okay

just realized that there are no hanger hooks to hang a sport jacket!


Mazda,

add jacket hooks - somewhere.

-redesign the clutch throwout bearing for quieter operation or whatever it is called that makes the "noise" when the car is in neutral and the engine is running (press in the clutch and the noise stops) --it is a really loud bearing sound sshhhhhhhhhhhh

Originally posted by RodsterinFL
-redesign the clutch throwout bearing for quieter operation or whatever it is called that makes the "noise" when the car is in neutral and the engine is running (press in the clutch and the noise stops) --it is a really loud bearing sound sshhhhhhhhhhhh Rodster, that noise is not the clutch throwout bearing (the throwout bearing would make noise when the clutch is disengaged (pedal depressed) not the other way around). It's the transmission input shaft bearing and/or the transmission cluster gear bearings. Yeah, it seems louder than I'm accustomed to, but that just might be because the rotary runs smoother than piston engines. Dealer said it was normal.

Getting picked on by the police. I got pulled over on my way to church this morning, and was chastised, "48 mph is NOT 45 mph!" I shit you not, she pulled me over for doing 48 in a 45. Granted, I did blatantly pass her at 48 mph, but give me a break! Funny thing was, just before that, some idiot cut in front of her and she had to slam on her brakes to avoid rearending. She let that one go, but then chose to come after me for 48...I get picked on.

In the Little Things thread and elsewhere we've talked about all the envious stares we get as we cruise by. There is a dark side the this: All the nasty sneers you get as your car is being hauled to the dealer on a flatbed due to flooding. I was in the cab of the flatbed which made a coupla stops on the way to the dealer, and it was heartbreaking/humiliating to see everyone laughing at my beautiful new Velocity Red '8 sitting atop the truck. I wanted to just disappear.

Originally posted by bobclevenger
Yes, I would prefer not to have to remove the cover to add oil, but I can check oil without removing the cover. What purpose does the cover serve, anyway?

Way back in September or October, there was a nice article in the New York Times about the effort auto companies are putting into "dressing up" the engine bay. When we first test drove the 8 and saw that cover in the engine bay, I turned to Greg and said, "The NYT was right." It's there to make it look attractive when the hood is up.

Originally posted by Q121825
When we first test drove the 8 and saw that cover in the engine bay, I turned to Greg and said, "The NYT was right." It's there to make it look attractive when the hood is up. This is true, but you ought to post it in The Little Things thread where we discuss good stuff about the '8.

Originally posted by Q121825
Way back in September or October, there was a nice article in the New York Times about the effort auto companies are putting into "dressing up" the engine bay. When we first test drove the 8 and saw that cover in the engine bay, I turned to Greg and said, "The NYT was right." It's there to make it look attractive when the hood is up.
Keep in mind though that many auto manufacturers are doing this with their cars. Ok, they could have made our dipstick a little more accessible, but at least the entire engine is viewable with the cover removed. For many cars now that's not the case...

1) the sunroof is too far back and when open is at an odd angle. The FD's looks cool when open, the FE's looks kinda lame.

2) you cant turn the stereo on and off from the steering wheel (sounds nitpick I guess)

3) no line input (this is my biggest gripe I think)
4) The fact that the you have to drive the car to understand it. On paper the car sucks, in reality its one of the most fun cars ever. People who never drove the rx8 dont get it.
5) Its not as easy to see cars in the lane next to you. Sort of a blind spot. The FD has no blind spots.

thats all, be back later when I find more.

Originally posted by B-Nez

To piggyback onto this - the Bose DOES play MP3, as long as you've bought the MP3 CD-head. [/QUOTE]

this is probably a dumb question, but just want to clarify. are the bose stereo and cd changer independently configurable options or are they one in the same? also how much is the mp3 cd=head upgrade (to purchase, not to install)? thanks.

Originally posted by zerobanger
Its not as easy to see cars in the lane next to you. Sort of a blind spot. You can eliminate the blind spot if you adjust the mirrors right. There are some threads on this, and I have done so.

At 600 miles, the only disappointing thing so far is the "clunk" the headlights make as they adjust. What were the engineers thinking?

That clunk is actually your ABS system testing itself. The headlights are almost completley silent (in a garage with the car not running you could hear them).

Ah. Well, either way, it takes some getting used to :D

Closing the boot using the recessed grip requires a hard downward slam.
The rear doors tend to slam shut with the slightest of push, while the front doors need a firm push to close; No consistency there. I always have to tell people not to push the rear doors when closing.

The climate control pilot lights do not show up well when the sun shines through the cabin.

The position of the front cup holders.

Soot on the tail-pipes and rust on the brake discs.

No major gripes though.

Originally posted by hotpot
The climate control pilot lights do not show up well when the sun shines through the cabin.
Hey, at least you get climate control! :)

Originally posted by jonalan
Hey, at least you get climate control! nk, you should be posting this in "The Little Things" as a positive, not a negative. Plus those of you who got headlight washers, cool lights on your outside mirrors, etc. Be grateful for what you have! :)

A trunk ajar light would be nice. Left my trunk unlocked for about 3 days this winter... :(

Originally posted by 8_wannabe
nk, you should be posting this in "The Little Things" as a positive, not a negative.
The negative aspect is that we in the US don't have an option for automatic climate control for some unknown reason.
Has anybody heard from anyone at Mazda why this is not an option in the US?

I would guess to keep cost to a minimum.

I find my footwell gets warm and toasty from the close engine which is a good thing in winter but I wonder how it'd be in summer....

The only thing that gets my goat is the 'deleting' of features that are built-in,- the climate control is THERE, just disabled.
The computer is ready, the systems are in place, even the display is there....it's just not implemented.

Same goes for the tripcomputer.....most top-line cars use the Nav screen for trip computer functions.....all the hardware is there, it is just.......deleted.
.
.
.
doc

Precicely, Doc.
It saves no money at all not to allow buyers in some areas to select options that are already being manufactured for other markets. Same thing with not allowing the deletion of features that are not desired (moonroof on GT package, for instance).

In fact it would make MORE money for Mazda were they to do this.

Perhaps by the time I get re-employed and ready to buy another '8, they'll have released the '05 model with all those thing enabled. :p

Originally posted by eccles
Perhaps by the time I get re-employed and ready to buy another '8, they'll have released the '05 model with all those thing enabled. :p
We can hope for both of those things!

Originally posted by B-Nez
Getting picked on by the police. I got pulled over on my way to church this morning, and was chastised, "48 mph is NOT 45 mph!" I shit you not, she pulled me over for doing 48 in a 45. Granted, I did blatantly pass her at 48 mph, but give me a break! Funny thing was, just before that, some idiot cut in front of her and she had to slam on her brakes to avoid rearending. She let that one go, but then chose to come after me for 48...I get picked on.

She probably just wanted a closer look at the awesome new 8! :D

Originally posted by jonalan
Hey, at least you get climate control! :)

Yeah I guess so. But the climate control does not work that great, Sometimes the air blows at your feet when you want it to blow in your face. And when you set it to blow in your face the climate control shuts down to manual mode. It is a bit quirky. I haven't quite worked out how it decides to blow through which vent.

It IS strange that you don't get climate control in North America. Has anyone got any explanantion from Mazda about this?

Originally posted by hotpot
It IS strange that you don't get climate control in North America. Has anyone got any explanantion from Mazda about this?

It's all a plot to get us to buy new 8s in 2006. :D

Nah. The car's built in Hiroshima & they're still mad at us. :o

Let me add one: the headliner padding material doesn't rebound quickly, if at all. I have a fingertip indentation just sitting there for a week after I moved the sunshade. Is this a problem in warm weather (cold NY here)? I would hate to have to go in with a warranty claim as minor as this, but it seems cheesy to me. Other than that, it's an awesome car. So what if I have to snake my hand around hoses to check the oil, warm the car up when I want to use it, and pay the occasional speeding ticket?

Ok, I could not decide whether to put this on the BAD little things thread or the GOOD little things thread. Drive down the interstate at 75 MPH in a rain storm and you will see two little water puddles that collect on each side of the groove in the hood. The wind is just enough to keep them up there but not enough to blow them completely off. It is really kinda cute to watch on a long boring drive. Pretty big puddles after a minute or two. That's the GOOD little thing. The BAD little thing is after the rain stops and they stay there for 30 minutes until they evaporate away leaving two distinctive dirty markes in the grooves a couple of inches from the windshield.

I told you it was a LITTLE thing.

Can anyone here relate to this?

Originally posted by gingersrus
Ok, I could not decide whether to put this on the BAD little things thread or the GOOD little things thread. Drive down the interstate at 75 MPH in a rain storm and you will see two little water puddles that collect on each side of the groove in the hood. The wind is just enough to keep them up there but not enough to blow them completely off. It is really kinda cute to watch on a long boring drive. Pretty big puddles after a minute or two. That's the GOOD little thing. The BAD little thing is after the rain stops and they stay there for 30 minutes until they evaporate away leaving two distinctive dirty markes in the grooves a couple of inches from the windshield.

I told you it was a LITTLE thing.

Can anyone here relate to this?

Not only can I relate, I often get hypnotized by that diabolical dance........can not look away......ignore big truck coming right at me....

I noticed those. Way cool to watch them move up and down the groove as I change speed!

As for disappointing things, I know it's been said at least once, but the front cup holders are really ill-considered in placement and design.

Originally posted by gingersrus
Ok, I could not decide whether to put this on the BAD little things thread or the GOOD little things thread. Drive down the interstate at 75 MPH in a rain storm and you will see two little water puddles that collect on each side of the groove in the hood. The wind is just enough to keep them up there but not enough to blow them completely off. It is really kinda cute to watch on a long boring drive. Pretty big puddles after a minute or two. That's the GOOD little thing. The BAD little thing is after the rain stops and they stay there for 30 minutes until they evaporate away leaving two distinctive dirty markes in the grooves a couple of inches from the windshield.

I told you it was a LITTLE thing.

Can anyone here relate to this?


I did, back in August! For more on this, check out this thread :)

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=11445

Originally posted by Kaliken
umm.. I only have one so far.

I have to get out of the car when I go to work! =)


This man is right!!!!!!
For the money it is a fantastic machine, talk about the good not the bad. If it cost as much as my wifes 911 I would expect "perfection" but it does not...what a wonderful car.

One thing I find very disappointing is the amount of paranoia and fear that's spread around about the MPG and flooding issues. IMO it's getting blown out of any reasonable proportion. Sure there are folks having legit. issues and it is true that there is a short-trip procedure that should be followed when shutting down cold, but the amount of FUD that gets rolled around here on the forum by folks making out that you should live in fear of the car flooding at any moment is (IMO) outrageous. As such it makes for posts like the recent "Well I WAS going to buy..." thread. Being informed about nuances and possible issues is one thing, but being driven to paranoia by a few people who beat things out of all proportion is just sad to see.

Oh yeah - and I agree the cupholders could have been a little deeper or something.. I have some developing coffee drips in there now that I need to clean up.

Simon.

Originally posted by Baller
This man is right!!!!!!
For the money it is a fantastic machine, talk about the good not the bad. If it cost as much as my wifes 911 I would expect "perfection" but it does not...what a wonderful car. Believe me, spending Porsche $$ for a car in no way guarantees any fewer issues. From my experience, Porsches have as many if not more rattles than the 8 does, not to mention some engine issues...

Originally posted by RX-GR8
its been frigid in nj the last few days and the seat heaters still suck. any questions?

Mine are working very well (NJ also). I do wish they had a low, constant on mode rather than the "really hot or off" cycle that I seem to notice.

Seat heaters are a very subjective thing...My brother loves the heaters in his C class, I think they are too dam hot! My ass sweats while the rest of me is still cold..

all the complaning we have one of the nicest cars on the road every time i am at a light every one stairs at the car. stop just stop with the bad thing just think of all the good things

Saw a few posts referring to the seat heaters being too hot or too cold. Don't know if you are aware, but they are tied to the cars climate control. The seat temperature is adjusted by changing the cars internal temp. This is also true on the Millenia's heated seats. It is also mentioned, albeit in a not so clear way int he RX8 Owner's Manual.

sferret,

you're right, it is easy to get paranoid about the problems that are raised on this board. I started that thread.

However, it's also key to note that I ended up buying :)

Originally posted by 2001F4S
Saw a few posts referring to the seat heaters being too hot or too cold. Don't know if you are aware, but they are tied to the cars climate control. The seat temperature is adjusted by changing the cars internal temp. This is also true on the Millenia's heated seats. It is also mentioned, albeit in a not so clear way int he RX8 Owner's Manual.

Please do share with us where in the RX-8 Owner's Manual you see this...............

Thanks,
rx8cited

Originally posted by LRTRX8


5. Factory installed blind spot mirrors, bacause face it you can't see sh*t on either side or behind you, especially the drivers side!

6. Spare tires in all the RX-8's from the factory. I couldn't believe it when I found out I had no spare tire! Not even a doughnut! THIS SHOULD BE STANDARD (PERIOD).



!. Next tme you go driving how bout buying a bicylce helmet with little mirrors on it. that will solve your blind spot issues.
(All i do is down shift and get on the gas and go where i want too)

2. Mazda has this kewl ass thing going on.. 24 hr road side assistance, if you get a flat have some guy come and fix it for you while you stay warm on you heated seats.


Joe

Originally posted by youngpit
stop just stop with the bad thing just think of all the good things

That's a different thread. :D (seriously, I can't find it again or I'd post the link )

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by 2001F4S
Saw a few posts referring to the seat heaters being too hot or too cold. Don't know if you are aware, but they are tied to the cars climate control. The seat temperature is adjusted by changing the cars internal temp. This is also true on the Millenia's heated seats. It is also mentioned, albeit in a not so clear way int he RX8 Owner's Manual.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Please do share with us where in the RX-8 Owner's Manual you see this...............

Thanks,
rx8cited

Check the note on page 2-6 regarding the thermostat

Originally posted by 2001F4S
...Check the note on page 2-6 regarding the thermostat

Thanks - 2001F4S .

Here's what it says on page 2-6:
--
"Seat Warmer:
The front seats are electrically heated. The
ignition switch must be in the ON
position. Press the switch to turn the seat warmer on or off. When the switch is in the ON position, the indicator light will come on.

NOTE: The thermostat regulates seat temperature by turning the current on and off."
--

It's interesting that the word thermostat is not used anywhere else in the manual.

They refer to the climate control air temperature control knob as the "temperature control dial".

If someone with an Electrical System manual could verify that the seat warmer circuitry uses the "temperature control dial", that would be great.

We could also experiment with the knob position-to-seat warmer temperature relationship.

rx8cited

Oddly enough my manual has a note that says the seats are controlled via the thermostat. I am not in front of it now, but it does make it clear that the thermostat is involved.

Originally posted by BillK
Believe me, spending Porsche $$ for a car in no way guarantees any fewer issues. From my experience, Porsches have as many if not more rattles than the 8 does, not to mention some engine issues...

Ya if you think the Porsche is so perfect read a few lines from this Porsche Boxster forum and see they have issues too. The main one being they can not get to their engines 'cept from underneath the car. Must make an 250 dollar oil change lots of fun. :D


http://www.ppbb.com/board/986board.htm

Bose system is average at best, cold starts. Having to give it up for a day to let hubby drive!

Originally posted by flatso
Ya if you think the Porsche is so perfect read a few lines from this Porsche Boxster forum and see they have issues too. The main one being they can not get to their engines 'cept from underneath the car. Must make an 250 dollar oil change lots of fun. :D


http://www.ppbb.com/board/986board.htm Actually, the oil change is only about $225, less if you bring your own oil.

Pricy, yes, but only required once every 12 months/15,000 miles. Thus if you compare that to someone changing their oil every 3 months with a regular car that would only be around $55 per oil change, around average for a dealer oil change with Mobil 1...

Originally posted by flatso
Ya if you think the Porsche is so perfect read a few lines from this Porsche Boxster forum and see they have issues too. The main one being they can not get to their engines 'cept from underneath the car. Must make an 250 dollar oil change lots of fun. :D


http://www.ppbb.com/board/986board.htm

Actually, you make a interesting point..porsce tells you about this, anyone who buys the car should know it, but they still are upset..so I think that goes to show that we do not have an abnormal amount of compliants here...

Sorry to hear that cruzdreamer. I just had to convince my wife that she really didn't like the car and now I get to drive it all the time :p .

This probably has been posted before, but my pet peeve is the dashboard lights. It lights up at night. In every car I've ever owned, the dash *only* lights up when the exterior lights are on. It serves to remind me to turn the lights on in the dark.

I'm coming from a car where the lights are always on (day or night). So when I get into the car at night and the dashboard lights up, I think that I may forget that I haven't turned the lights on.

Don't laugh. If you're in a well-lit area, you won't realize when your lights are off in some cars. I haven't made that mistake in the 8 (mainly because I'm parking in non-well-lit places and I can tell when the lights are off). But I can see that happening to me.

GENOM You said: "And even though I dont smoke in my car my windshield on the inside still has to be cleaned every week or so because of something evaporating in the car and coating it. Havent been able to figure out why thats still happening and it's anoying."

A guy at the office said it was the vinyl gasing in the sunlight. It looks terrible on my glass also. It is hard to clean off as well. Anyone have a cure other than elbow grease?

LEt me know - thanks.

What I don't like is cheap plastic cup holder cover in the front. I leaned on it by accident and almost broke it. I leave it open now.

Biggest surprise is the high quality of the stock stereo system. It is quite good for stock, to the point I am not going to replace it :cool:

PORSCHE there is no substitute!

Originally posted by Superfan
1. What car isn't noisy with an open sunroof?

my 98 audi A4 was not noisy

Things that don't cost a lot but could make the 8 even better:

1] Headlights that turn off when ignition is off
2] 2 level heat setting for seats
3] Seat memory
4] Oil level indicator (like a fuel level indicator)
5] Better location for parking brake (ever see the camouflaged parking brake from the Saab 9-3?)
6] Lighted switches for door lock, trunk release, sunroof controls
7] 120v power outlet

At the car's bargain basement price, I'd be willing to pay a little extra for thes things, no?

A guy at the office said it was the vinyl gasing in the sunlight. It looks terrible on my glass also. It is hard to clean off as well. Anyone have a cure other than elbow grease?

LEt me know - thanks.

Try Rain-X Anti Fog (meant for interior surfaces, different from the stuff you put on exterior glass) mixed 10:1 with de-ionized water. Best glass cleaner I've found, cuts through the polyvinyl haze easily.

I have the same problem...it drives my gf nuts...we drive away from the parking lights, and she has to remind me to turn on my lights...

Originally posted by gusmahler
This probably has been posted before, but my pet peeve is the dashboard lights. It lights up at night. In every car I've ever owned, the dash *only* lights up when the exterior lights are on. It serves to remind me to turn the lights on in the dark.

I'm coming from a car where the lights are always on (day or night). So when I get into the car at night and the dashboard lights up, I think that I may forget that I haven't turned the lights on.

Don't laugh. If you're in a well-lit area, you won't realize when your lights are off in some cars. I haven't made that mistake in the 8 (mainly because I'm parking in non-well-lit places and I can tell when the lights are off). But I can see that happening to me.

Originally posted by liqiud
I have the same problem...it drives my gf nuts...we drive away from the parking lights, and she has to remind me to turn on my lights...

This does not work for you? "Lights-On Reminder: If lights are on and the key is removed from the ignition switch, a beep will
sound when the driver’s door is opened."

rx8cited

My 3 concerns:

-Fuel/Milege (however, it is improving luckily)
-Difficulty of passengers getting in and out of the rear seats when car is parked
-I keep getting annoying noises from something near the passenger side that i can't figure out whats causing it (so rather than fixing it, i ignore it by turning music up)

Originally posted by Yanje
....
-Difficulty of passengers getting in and out of the rear seats when car is parked
....


I can't imagine what it's like when the car is moving? :D

1) Passenger window needs AUTO down also!
2) I wish the headlights would come on when I unlock the car with the key fob, alot of cars do this for safety, and so you can see in dark places.
3) Oil dipstick is hard to reach
4) Fuel cap needs holder, I hate having it hang up against the car.

Originally posted by rx8cited
This does not work for you? "Lights-On Reminder: If lights are on and the key is removed from the ignition switch, a beep will
sound when the driver’s door is opened."



That's a different problem (lights on when car is off). We are talking about the opposite problem (car on and moving, headlights off). Because the dashboard is lit at night, it may take some getting used to for turning the lights on at night.

Originally posted by gusmahler
That's a different problem (lights on when car is off). We are talking about the opposite problem (car on and moving, headlights off). Because the dashboard is lit at night, it may take some getting used to for turning the lights on at night.

I misread the problem. Thanks for that clarification.

The dashboard does light a different color for lights off vs lights on right (unless you have the dashboard light dimmer switch clicked to daytime position)?

I suppose the point is the dashboard is not dark, so it's easy to forget that the exterior lights are not on.

rx8cited

I am utterly disappointed that I can't find anything to bitch about on this car, and i even have the auto!!! I'm also disappointed that I have to leave the car from time to time upon arriving at my destination, too bad I can't find a job (other than courier or pizza dude) that pays me for driving my 8, (or any 8 in general)...sigh.....so disappointed.......lol

I love the design all except the seat heater switches. Shift gears and end up with a hot seat, very poor placement of switches.

* I picked up clothes from the cleaner today. There is no place to hang the clothes in the back seat. I have to hang it on the handle over the passenger seat.

* The navigation system isn't very bright when the lights are on. I probably turn my lights on sooner than most, but if I turn the lights on before it is very dark, the Nav screen is nearly illegible.

Originally posted by gusmahler
[B* The navigation system isn't very bright when the lights are on. I probably turn my lights on sooner than most, but if I turn the lights on before it is very dark, the Nav screen is nearly illegible. [/B] But any brighter would be too bright when it's dark, and you can always set your nav display to use the "daylight" mode even when the lights are on.
Personally I would like a brighter mode for daytime use when wearing sunglasses (on both nav screen and instruments). I'm always looking over my shades to read small details like time/distance remaining.
OK, so my eyes are as old as the rest of me.:)

Originally posted by bobclevenger
But any brighter would be too bright when it's dark, and you can always set your nav display to use the "daylight" mode even when the lights are on.


Ah, I didn't know that. How do I go about doing that? I know where you can select the color of the screen in day and night, but I must have overlooked any brightness setting.

Originally posted by gusmahler
Ah, I didn't know that. How do I go about doing that? I know where you can select the color of the screen in day and night, but I must have overlooked any brightness setting.
My mistake. There's no brightness setting. I just thought the daylight colour scheme would be bright enough.

you know, with the original little things thread being stickied, maybe this should go up there too. just a thought. if they're gonna see the positive, they should see the negative too.

The red rx-8 light logo,

Hey I already know I'm driving a 7 whoops I mean a 8

[QUOTE]''The rx-8 is a bit louder when the sunroof is open than the other cars I've driven. For example, with a bmw it seems to have a little thing that pops up, which you can't even notice to dampen the noise a bit.''
why does it seem that everyone that owns a 8 they previously owned a bmw. then they come to the forum and complain how the 8 is bad. my opinioin why did you even switch

Well, I owned a Mercedes before trading it in on my 8 and I think the 8 is a better car in almost all respects. Yes, there are some small things that the MB did better, but not many.

So far, the only thing that would make me rethink getting the 8 would be the mileage. But even with the bad mileage I'm still really happy with the car. But the things I would change if I could (in order of importance)

1) mileage. 19/24 would be nice. I think I'm getting 15-16 now.

2) Having to worry about extra oil. The less non fun "work" you have to do is always better especially for a lazy ass like me.

3) homelink (on the GT). god it frustrates me. i've set homelinks on a lexus and 2 hondas. they were super easy to set up. i try with the 8 and one of the steps is "if it has a steady light you're done. if it blinks then has a steady light you must do these additional steps since it's a rolling signal". These extra steps include hitting the "smart" button on your garage opener installed in your garage. The problem here? I'm not sure if my garage opener has a smart button. also I need to set up the security gate one which I'm almost positive doesn't have a smart button. Both the garage and the security gate give me the blinks then steady. So basically I can't use it right now. Maybe I'm doing something wrong but I'm pretty sure I'm not. And the honda ones and the lexus worked just fine when I set those.

4) Navigation software. It tells me my parents live on a "street" when they've always lived on an "avenue" and the honda navigation agrees, the street sign says avenue, mapquest and yahoo! maps say it's an avenue. Also I went to a family friend's place recently. It failed to find the address.

5) Trunk opening - would be nice if it were bigger. I tried loading a laundry basket in there. It didn't fit thru the opening though it would've fit if I could've gotten it in there. No biggie though, I just put it in the back seat.

6) Air conditioner. Be nice if it was consistently very cold. It's plenty good enuf to serve it's purpose - just it could be better.

4) Fuel cap needs holder, I hate having it hang up against the car.

Theres a clip in the filler cap area for the cable to go behind! Have another look...

A few things:

1) The fragility of the center console sliding lid. It sits perfectly in position for my elbow to rest when my hand is on the shifter. However, the slider clip is SO fragile that about 5-7 lbs of downward force will snap it.

2) The speakers. The installation is fairly poor and they rattle when Lars goes nuts on his Bass drums. I have the Bose. (Note: installed sub and turned down OEM stereo bass..problem solved. Reality is, I shouldn't have had to...dealer was no help)

3) Effect of PCM flashes on performance. Yes, you read that right. One of the things that turned me on to the RX8 was it's smooth as silk acceleration. After the flashes (J, then M) the power seems to come in waves at specific RPM ranges. Around 6k rpm, the power falls off and acceleration is mostly flat.

4) Sun Visors. Intriguing idea, but ultimately pretty silly.

5) Of course, fuel economy. Posted 18/24. I shift between 3k and 4k rpm in city driving and routinely get 16-17mpg, 19-20 with some highway cruising at 75ish.

6) Dipstick is buried. Seems stupid since routine oil checks are required for good maintenance.

7) HP benchmarking. It seems silly to design a car that can't be benchmarked easily according to industry defacto standards. Independant verification of performance is a good thing to make customers happy.

A few things:
6) Dipstick is buried. Seems stupid since routine oil checks are required for good maintenance.

It's not just that the dipstick is buried. It's also the color of the dipstick--I can't see the oil line on it! I've never had trouble finding the oil level on any other dipstick I've used.

Another annoying thing, the door can't stay open. Whenever I open the door when I'm inside the car, it closes back on me. Every single time.

I did find out that a previous annoyance that I posted had a solution. I thought, when the lights are on, the NAV system is unusable in daylight. That is still true, but by the dashboard brightness knob has a daylight setting where the dash does not turn orange--and the NAV is the traditional brightness. Very visible during daylight.

It's not just that the dipstick is buried. It's also the color of the dipstick--I can't see the oil line on it! I've never had trouble finding the oil level on any other dipstick I've used.
.

thank god im not the only one. I have to re dip the oil stick 2 or 3 times just to make sure i know what the oil level is. Ill pull it out, whipe it off, slide it all the way down, pull it back up, and there is an oil line, then smears of oil up higher than the line, i guess from oil inside the tube, and the color of the stick makes it ungodly hard to tell at night.

To me, this is the most dissapointing thing. I can get past the lagging performence, or sucky a/c system that is loud, leeches to much power(to me anyway), and never works right. But it is beyond me why someone would make a car that knowingly burns more than average oil in order to function properly, tells you you must check the oil every other fill up, then does not seem to try to make that maintenence easier on the buyer.

I.e. the engine cover needing to be removed to check oil level. (to anyone who says they do not, i dont see how u do it without being a contortionist. The dip stick being so far down to reach. The color of the dip stick isnt easy to clearly see the level of oil in anything but direct sunlight. The oil pressure gauge isnt even functional, its a dummy gauge. And if your oil pressure dropped dramatically, you wouldnt even know it for several moments, which by then could damage your engine if you continue to drive. And not putting in something as simple as an oil level gauge. I know alot of people scoffed at this idea when i made a seperate post, but to me it would be so helpful. Not everyones car burns oil the same, and not everyone always has a convienient time to check the oil. An oil level gauge could at least give you an indication of when your getting low. :o Its just those things that frustrate me, really.

Man, y'all want some cheese with that whine?

My ONLY complaint about my -8? There's not enough time in the day to drive it as much as I want to!

Sure, there's room for improvement... Nothing is perfect.

Yes, all of my (trully minor) gripes have been addressed in previous posts.

The big question is would you buy it if you knew everything you know now?

For me: HELL YES!!!!

no telescopic steering

Ok. so the RX8 does 6.5 sec 0-60 with one adult (driver). But if you add 50 lbs. of appearance package & spoiler plus two adults and one fat 100 lb. kid in the car's backseat --- my guess is that the 0-60 goes down to about 7.8 - 8.0.

Based on the cartest simulation, the Auto can do 7.3 seconds with one adult, but loaded -- it will do about 8.2. So an RX Auto without any appearance package (50 lbs. off) with one passenger can beat the RX8 manual (loaded).

:D :D :D :p :p :cool: :cool: :cool:

Bose system isn't up to par. not much bass at all. my mom's 2004 Accord has a better system, no joke, and it's the standard stock radio!

also, this car is too fast for me...

Sheesh!! How much bass do you people want??? The Bose system reproduces what you put into it. If you want more bass, play music with more bass in it. A bass player friend was riding in my 8 and he commented on how good the bass was. We were playing "Bubba Ho-tep" on the dvd player at the time.
If the car's too fast for you, let up on the accellerator; it'll go slower.

I'm with Stew. You give 'em the cheese, I'll give 'em the bread. Then let 'em whine while the rest of us are out burnin' up the road.

Bose system isn't up to par. not much bass at all. my mom's 2004 Accord has a better system, no joke, and it's the standard stock radio!

also, this car is too fast for me...


I don't know about you, but my Bose stereo was stock in my RX-8 and I think it sounds great. My only issue with it is the MP3 player and it's silly RDM feature does not behave as it should.

If you mean the fact that the mp3 player doesn't span directories in random mode, yeah that's a shortcoming of the mp3 player and the only way around it that I know of is to use a different player through an auxiliary input.

For those that may not realize it, I have what may be surprising news:

Bose Sucks!

I could go on for days about what's wrong with Bose, but to make it short, you can get superior audio performance for less money with numerous other stereo manufacturer's.

Car companies use Bose because the general public tends to have a positive image of Bose. Why? Because Bose is one of the few audio/speaker companies that spends huge amounts of money on marketing vs. the competition. That cost is passed on to the end consumer.

My 93 RX-7 has the Bose CD and "Accoustic Wave System" in it. The bass "tubes" take up half of my trunk space. I've never heard such "muddy" sounding music!

Just remember, BOSE is a four letter word.

Top Ten Disappointing Things:

6. Lack of themostat cabin control. I'm hot, I'm cold, I'm hot, I'm cold... ;)You're lucky MEGAREDS! I'm hot, I'm WARM, I'm hot. I only get cold when ambient is below 75 F. This is AFTER getting the A/C control unit replaced.

Anyone know how to relocate the A/C control sensor away from the fan duct and more into the cabin, so the A/C will stay on longer?

For those that may not realize it, I have what may be surprising news:

Bose Sucks!

I could go on for days about what's wrong with Bose, but to make it short, you can get superior audio performance for less money with numerous other stereo manufacturer's.

Car companies use Bose because the general public tends to have a positive image of Bose. Why? Because Bose is one of the few audio/speaker companies that spends huge amounts of money on marketing vs. the competition. That cost is passed on to the end consumer.

My 93 RX-7 has the Bose CD and "Accoustic Wave System" in it. The bass "tubes" take up half of my trunk space. I've never heard such "muddy" sounding music!

Just remember, BOSE is a four letter word.

I don't know about the US version of the RX-8, but in Canada the BOSE is a STOCK stereo when you purchase the GT not an upgrade, therefore it was not an option that I could exclude if it was I would have because I know that there is better out there for the money. Therefore, when you say that you can get superior audio performance for less money is not true for me because my Bose was STOCK. As I said, for a STOCK stereo it sounds great I did not say BOSE was great.

Another annoying thing, the door can't stay open. Whenever I open the door when I'm inside the car, it closes back on me. Every single time.


One of the first neg. feelings towards my baby. and as of lately, there are many...... :confused:

Another annoying thing, the door can't stay open. Whenever I open the door when I'm inside the car, it closes back on me. Every single time.


Are you sure this wasn't fixed on the latest 2004? Mine arrived at the dealer 3 weeks ago and my doors, front and back, stay open as normal. My driveway is also on a very slight incline and the door still remains open either wide or the next notch down.

My current dissapointing issue is that I'm on a business trip and won't get to drive my car until Saturday, 4 more days!!

Disappointing minor thing, the rear defroster button is cracked. Discovered this today. Only other compaint so far is when I am driving I don't get to view the car going down the road in all its glory :)

Bose Sucks!

I could go on for day...Just remember, BOSE is a four letter word.

All stock radios suck IMHO, Alpine, Bose, it just doesn't matter. I think all auto manufacturers should offer a radio and speaker delete option. Leave the wiring in place and let the consumer choose their own setup.

All stock radios suck IMHO, Alpine, Bose, it just doesn't matter. I think all auto manufacturers should offer a radio and speaker delete option. Leave the wiring in place and let the consumer choose their own setup.

Agreed.

[QUOTE=red_rx8_red_int]All stock radios suck ...QUOTE]Okay, so what makes a good radio/sound system for the '8? Do we keep the BOSE speakers or do they also need to be replaced? I'd always liked the 9 band equalizers in my other Rx-s. Does anyone make digital ones that can save and recall settings, for example for when the windows are up or down? Also what can be done to allow the doors to be open and the radio on when the car is parked, without the alarms going off? And, when doing so, can there be an alarm or automatic shut-off when the battery gets near where it can't crank the motor? What is the best battery that would allow the radio to be run and still have cranking power in reserve?

This stuff is getting off topic, so please post a link where these types of things are being discussed or some search keywords.

thx

[QUOTE=red_rx8_red_int]All stock radios suck ...QUOTE]Okay, so what makes a good radio/sound system for the '8? Do we keep the BOSE speakers or do they also need to be replaced? I'd always liked the 9 band equalizers in my other Rx-s. Does anyone make digital ones that can save and recall settings, for example for when the windows are up or down? Also what can be done to allow the doors to be open and the radio on when the car is parked, without the alarms going off? And, when doing so, can there be an alarm or automatic shut-off when the battery gets near where it can't crank the motor? What is the best battery that would allow the radio to be run and still have cranking power in reserve?

This stuff is getting off topic, so please post a link where these types of things are being discussed or some search keywords.

thx

optima batteries...which color I dont know search
if you have bose it automatically modifies the volume (or compression) when you open the windows or any other noises...base HU just has volume up and down based on speed
what are you talking about the alarm going off when the car is parked, etc? doesn't happen to mine

I think he's talking about the stupid "Your key is in the ignition" beeper that is nothing but annoying. I disabled mine. Just unplug it fron the back of the ignition switch.

Disappointed that Mazda charges $1500 more for the RX8 manuals. The rating declared officially by Mazda Europe is that the 197hp version delivers 7.2 sec 0-60mph, while the 238hp version delivers 6.4 sec 0-60mph (see data). In short, the difference between the auto and manual RX8 is only 0.8 sec. Mag66, a member here said he has both the auto and manual - and he can't tell the difference between both in performance on the daily drive. Anyone of my NASCAR buddies here in NC will tell say that in any slalom race, it's the better driver who wins. The RX8 Automatic is as beautiful a car as the RX8 Manual.

Dude, get OFF the auto vs manual thing. Starting a flame war isn't going to get you anywhere.

.8 is a lot in a 0-60. That's almost a full second. In the 1/4 the gap is even bigger.

Anyways, I'm a little dissapointed in the power. Sure it's fast, but it doesn't have the oomph I was hoping for. I feel I don't pull away fast enough from people when I step on it.

I love the car though, it's so nice. I just want to get a turbo for it :) Alas, I'm leasing though. We'll see in 2 1/2 years what's new and I'll get that :)

My biggest disapointment:
It seems like every time I get behind the wheel and start driving, I find some bozo in front of me that wants to go MUCH slower than I do. Why in the hell are these idiots always in the left hand lane?????? :)

Any other issues are not real issues once I get past the current bozo. :D

The placement of the control buttons for the NAV system aren't in the best place (right below the shifter). My hand hits them quite a bit, resulting in bringing up a menu or something else that I didn't want to do.

And even though I dont smoke in my car my windshield on the inside still has to be cleaned every week or so because of something evaporating in the car and coating it. Havent been able to figure out why thats still happening and it's anoying.

I'm guessing you drive with windows open? that's happened to me in several cars, as well as everyone i know that drives with the windows open. not sure what it is, but humidity seems to affect it.

umm.. I only have one so far.

I have to get out of the car when I go to work! =)


Applause! :D

1.3L

Minor thing I wished was different--I wished that the redline of the tach was pointing straight up. Now, pointing straight up is about 7500 rpm. I find myself shifting early (if you consider shifting at 7500 rpm to be low :) ) sometimes because I see the needle pointing straight up in the corner of my eye.

Forget your eyes, use your ears!

:)

Besides, redline is not the optimal shift point.
Look at your hp curve; optimal shift point is usually about 10% above the hp peak.
If you want to do the math, look at your gear ratios too and shift so that your hp peak stays in the middle of your rpm range.

My car apparently has some hidden device in it that makes all the lights turn red just as I get to them. I haven't been able to find and remove it yet.
Other than that, LOVE the 8 so far.

If I had a "little thing", I would be disappointed too

The car does not have a sense of straight ahead. I always find that it is really easy to wander out of the lane. I could have an alignment problem. Anyone else seeing this?

The car does not have a sense of straight ahead. I always find that it is really easy to wander out of the lane. I could have an alignment problem. Anyone else seeing this?
Actually, I have noticed that before but passed it off as a lack of me paying attention, which actually wasn't the case. Now that you mintion it that did bother me a little. One of my main complaints is the incremental volume change on the radio is too much. When a commercial comes on I like to turn the volume down so I can barely here a sound and tell when to turn it back up for the programming. I need half increments for finer tuning. Boy, this is really getting nitpicky.

The car does not have a sense of straight ahead. I always find that it is really easy to wander out of the lane. I could have an alignment problem. Anyone else seeing this?

this is called rack and pinion steering it is a cross between the assistance of power steering and the feel of none

helps out more at slower speeds and give you much better feel...you bought a sports car, this is what it feels like...you need to be involved with driving at all times

My biggest disapointment:
It seems like every time I get behind the wheel and start driving, I find some bozo in front of me that wants to go MUCH slower than I do. Why in the hell are these idiots always in the left hand lane?????? :)

Any other issues are not real issues once I get past the current bozo. :D

LOL. I agree completely. I'm sometimes able to go to work late, so I can travel on an uncrowded highway. Invariably, I'll come up on a group of cars all going the same speed, but traveling in different lanes! And some bozos hate leaving the fast lane because they are going 75 and feel it is they're right to be in the fast lane. Don't they know that 75 is nothing in the RX-8? :)

Quino....did you say you had an element? As in the ugly POS element? Don't tell people that, they'll laugh.;)

I kind of like them. for hauling stuff around, they are cool.
and since there's no carpet, you don't have to worry about the floor, just hoze it out! :D

Sure, there's room for improvement... Nothing is perfect.

Yes, all of my (trully minor) gripes have been addressed in previous posts.

The big question is would you buy it if you knew everything you know now?

For me: HELL YES!!!!

I just did! some of the "gripes" I don't agree with.

No power to the sunroof immediately after you take the keys out. You can roll up your windows, but you can't close the sunroof.

Um, you're supposed to put the drink in a cup first. :D
That's hilarious! Damn, I was looking for a straw long enough to reach over there, too!