do you have to wait a while after trying to de flood it and it still doesn't start, to preform the operation again? this is the 2nd flood i've had and by far the worst, even hooked it up to my moms car and tried to start it cause my battery was dying.

Do these instructions apply for both left and right hand drive?

putting the throttle pedal COMPLETELY down also stops fuel from being injected while cranking. no pulling the fuse necessary. cranking for about 8 seconds should clear any unburned fuel out of the engine then let go of the pedal and crank again to start- smoke like crazy etc. possibly destroy the CAT.

Exactly right, except for some reason it hasn't worked for. Don't know why, might be something with my reflashed ECU; I have a supercharger on my motor. Pulling the fuse has always worked for me, but you're right, just holding the pedal to the floor may do the trick.

I have an 04 RX-8 that is in the shop right now needing massive repairs.
I had a short in my IGNITION COIL PACK and when trying to start the engine was flooded. So here is what the shop is charging me:

DIAGNOSTICS: Includes DEFLOODING, COMPRESSION TESTS, CLEAN INTAKE & CHANGE OIL & FILTERS
$190 Labor
$24 Parts
Sub Total: $214

REPLACE IGNITION COIL PACK-Shorted
$205.16 Parts
$142.50 Labor
Sub Total: $347.66

REPLACE PLUG WIRES
$88.34 Parts
REPLACE SPARK PLUGS
$81.96 Parts
$47.40 Labor
Sub Total: $217.70

Rotary TSB (When Engine is/has been Flooded): FLUSH ENGINE TO CLEAN APEX SEALS
$25.87 Parts
$380 Labor
Sub Total: $405.87

REPLACE BATTERY (Tests at 100 CCA)
$107 Parts
$24.95 Labor
Sub Total: 131.95

$100 Deductible from my extended warranty which is covering the following repairs:
REPLACE R&L ENGINE MOUNTS
REPLACE COOLANT TANK
($700 Warranty Work)

SHOP SUPPLIES: $39.90

TAX: $94.72

My Out-Of-Pocket Expense TOTAL
$1551.90

HELP!!!! Does this sound right?? Is there anything I can do without having done right away or can have mechanically inclined friends do cheaper??

Any advice would be so greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank You, Thank You for your time!!!!

Meg Decker - how many km on the clock.

If less than 90,000, it sounds way overboard.

Exactly right, except for some reason it hasn't worked for. Don't know why, might be something with my reflashed ECU; I have a supercharger on my motor. Pulling the fuse has always worked for me, but you're right, just holding the pedal to the floor may do the trick.

I've tried this with no success (accelerator pedal to the floor). On two occasions, we got it going after 45 mins by pulling the fuse and repeated starts with the started motor smoking.

I've never flood my engine ever since i own the car back in October, But my local Mazda dealer flooded my car today.

Never succeeded in deflooding ever. I always end up pull starting.

"OUCH! that sucks"


I have an 04 RX-8 that is in the shop right now needing massive repairs.
I had a short in my IGNITION COIL PACK and when trying to start the engine was flooded. So here is what the shop is charging me:

DIAGNOSTICS: Includes DEFLOODING, COMPRESSION TESTS, CLEAN INTAKE & CHANGE OIL & FILTERS
$190 Labor
$24 Parts
Sub Total: $214

REPLACE IGNITION COIL PACK-Shorted
$205.16 Parts
$142.50 Labor
Sub Total: $347.66

REPLACE PLUG WIRES
$88.34 Parts
REPLACE SPARK PLUGS
$81.96 Parts
$47.40 Labor
Sub Total: $217.70

Rotary TSB (When Engine is/has been Flooded): FLUSH ENGINE TO CLEAN APEX SEALS
$25.87 Parts
$380 Labor
Sub Total: $405.87

REPLACE BATTERY (Tests at 100 CCA)
$107 Parts
$24.95 Labor
Sub Total: 131.95

$100 Deductible from my extended warranty which is covering the following repairs:
REPLACE R&L ENGINE MOUNTS
REPLACE COOLANT TANK
($700 Warranty Work)

SHOP SUPPLIES: $39.90

TAX: $94.72

My Out-Of-Pocket Expense TOTAL
$1551.90

HELP!!!! Does this sound right?? Is there anything I can do without having done right away or can have mechanically inclined friends do cheaper??

Any advice would be so greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank You, Thank You for your time!!!!

I got my car started btw, I bought 4 gauge jumper cables and cranked the heck out of my car while pressing the throttle, then I turned it over, and yup made a horrible sound along with the engine knocking. Mements later it ran fine. Save money by not going to the stealership. woo whoooo!!!!!

I'm planning to buy one does 2006 year made or 40th ann. ed. differ about flooding issue ?

It's a rotary engine thing, specifically the improper sealing of the apex seals and thereby low compression upon flooding. Model year is not relevant.

The future 16X is expected to improve upon this innate 'condition' (I don't want to say flaw, since with minimal attention it can be avoided).

Any internal combustion engine can be flooded, but the rotary with its large sealing surfaces requiring add'l lubrication is especially prone.

I'm planning to buy one does 2006 year made or 40th ann. ed. differ about flooding issue ?

It's a rotary engine thing, specifically the improper sealing of the apex seals and thereby low compression upon flooding. Model year is not relevant.

The future 16X is expected to improve upon this innate 'condition' (I don't want to say flaw, since with minimal attention it can be avoided).

Any internal combustion engine can be flooded, but the rotary with its large sealing surfaces requiring add'l lubrication is especially prone.

Yeah I haven't flooded due to my fault in a long time. It flooded recently, but that was an unlucky problem. The car failed to start because a cable slid along through normal vibration and driving until it made contact with my turbo and melted the in-wire fuse. So attempting to start the car while it was physically impossible to start somehow flooded it. After replacing the fuse, the engine was flooded, thus I pull started it as usual.

But I haven't flooded due to cold shut down in a long long time. Once or twice will learn you your lesson.

I called Mazda customer service and they said Mazda will cover flushing the engine after flooding twice during the life of your RX-8. (Unfortunately mine has already been flushed twice and this makes 3!!)

So what are people doing now to avoid flooding - any progress in recent months. My dealer's latest advice was to just raise the engine to over 3,000 RPM before a cold stop to burn out the fuel. These days, I'm giving a couple of minutes idle, and hitting 6,000 RPM for about 5 sec.

RX-8's are still flooding?
do you guys have the upgrade starter / battery? Are you letting the car warm up a bit before shutting it down? (especially in the colder parts of the country / world)

I bought my car in January 2005 and just flooded it for the first time last week @ 83,000 miles. It was a nasty flood too, and took me 2 days to get it started again. I refused to have it towed to the dealer since I'm out of warranty and I don't even want to know what they would have charged me. Hopefully it was just an isolated incident and isn't something that will happen more often now that my Renesis is pretty high on miles.

Same as always:

1. Don't shut down unless warmed.
2. If you must shut down before fully warmed, rev to 3k, hold for ten seconds, and shut off as the engine's spooling down (to burn off surplus fuel).

Simple.

So what are people doing now to avoid flooding - any progress in recent months. My dealer's latest advice was to just raise the engine to over 3,000 RPM before a cold stop to burn out the fuel. These days, I'm giving a couple of minutes idle, and hitting 6,000 RPM for about 5 sec.

yes i admit i flooded my car more then 4 times, cause i'm too lazy to let
it warm up when moving it. and yes i have a darn good battery.
but i've also had my car for almost 5 years..
deflooding is easy but you most be patient

I bought my car in January 2005 and just flooded it for the first time last week @ 83,000 miles. It was a nasty flood too, and took me 2 days to get it started again. I refused to have it towed to the dealer since I'm out of warranty and I don't even want to know what they would have charged me. Hopefully it was just an isolated incident and isn't something that will happen more often now that my Renesis is pretty high on miles.

Even if your car is out of warranty, contact Mazda Customer Service (the 800 number is on the Mazda website) and they can arrange to have your engine flushed at no cost to you.

Mine's almost 3 years old and has never flooded. Turn the key and it fires right up, every time.
What am I doing wrong?!?

Even if your car is out of warranty, contact Mazda Customer Service (the 800 number is on the Mazda website) and they can arrange to have your engine flushed at no cost to you.

What does the "flush" consist of? I already ran the Mazda Engine Cleaner through it after the flood (using the TSB directions). Is there anything else they do?

do they even do that as part of flood repair?

Mine's almost 3 years old and has never flooded. Turn the key and it fires right up, every time.
What am I doing wrong?!?

Give it time. I had mine for a couple of years with no problem - turned it off cold. Then one day it just happened. It just wouldn't start. The road service tried also, and in the end towed it to the service centre.

I suggest you follow the advice given here as insurance.

deflooding is easy but you most be patient

So what's easy about it? Tow starting is a paid if there's no other car available. I've had smoke coming off the starter motor twice before I got it going. Do you have some special trick?

Sometimes deflooding can be easy, but it definitely wasn't for me. I tried the pedal on the floor method immediately when I realized it was flooded, but it didn't help me at all. I had to take my spark plugs out, dry them, clean them, crank out the excess gas, inject some oil into the chambers, crank it some more, recharge the battery overnight because all the cranking drained it, put the plugs back in, crank it more with the pedal floored and everything reconnected, crank it more with foot off the pedal, and FINALLY it started with a huge cloud of white smoke.

And New Yorker, don't risk it. I had my 8 for almost 4 years without a single flood and I thought I was impervious to it too. My flood came after moving my car out of the garage and shutting off cold. Just follow the flood-prevention guidelines and you'll be good.

Same here, soon completing 4 years old. It's what you're doing RIGHT! ;)

Mine's almost 3 years old and has never flooded. Turn the key and it fires right up, every time.
What am I doing wrong?!?

one of the problems with trying to deflood the car
is a weak battery. i have a red top so it allows me
max. cranking time without running out of juice on the battery.
if you dont have a good battery then it will probably die
before you get it started

also holding the pedal down to shut off gas flow
is good, but you have to let off all the way when your ready to try
and start it up.

do they even do that as part of flood repair?


Yup that is why they cover them because they're so prone to being flooded...

Yup that is why they cover them because they're so prone to being flooded...

I meant the engine cleaner. I didn't think running engine cleaner through the engine was part of fixing a flood.

after 2 years and 52k miles it happened ended up running me little over $700 and had to happen right after christmass

I meant the engine cleaner. I didn't think running engine cleaner through the engine was part of fixing a flood.

It is because of the corrosion to the apex seals...

RX-8's are still flooding?
do you guys have the upgrade starter / battery? Are you letting the car warm up a bit before shutting it down? (especially in the colder parts of the country / world)

Seriously. I'd like to think that a lot of the more recent floods are happening to '04-'05 models that haven't had the TSB/recall work performed or are on their 2nd or 3rd owner with lots of miles.

I'm inclined to think that poorly-maintained early RX-8s probably have other issues with their motors, and the flooding is just a symptom or side effect of that.

How many owners of '07+ models have experienced flooding, accidental or otherwise?!?

Also, having people post about flooding is almost useless if they don't include basic info like:

1) Model year
2) Mileage
3) If TSBs/recalls were performed
4) Whether they are the original owner or whether they bought used
5) Maintenance history (have you been using quality oil/filter every 3 months/3K)

All RX-8s manufactured after March of 2005 have the Mazda anti-flood and flood-recovery improvements. You can go back through this thread and, while the number of floods has greatly reduced, late 2005 and after RX-8s have reported flooding. I believe Mazda still ships the RX-8 with the "no short trip" warning in the owners manual or quick-tips.

As with any car, poor maintenance (weak batters, bad plugs, etc.) contributes to flooding but even a well maintained late model RX-8 can still fall victim to the dreaded "short trip" ("I just backed it out of the garage to wash it, and the next day ...").

What I am not sure of is if the 2009 RX-8, with its RENESIS engine changes, is still flood-prone. I would guess it is, as a rotary is still a rotary, but I have not seen reports one way or the other in this thread.

Its happened to me two times.
The first time the car started and when I took my foot off the clutch it stalled. It wouldn't start after several cranks but seemed to want to a few times. I cranked it for 10 seconds at a time several times with maybe 30 seconds of waiting in between and it finally started to my relief.
The second time it happened I think I didn't let the starter turn the engine over enough as it never actually started enough for any RPMs to be read. It wouldn't start but seem to sputter. After using similar procedure as the first time it started I was able to get it started. I practically used all the juice on my battery trying to get it started and had to use an external jumper battery. Does the starter have a chance of burning out if I do this to try and get it started again?

2004 6MT

Its happened to me two times.
Does the starter have a chance of burning out if I do this to try and get it started again?

2004 6MT

I've had smoke coming off the starter motor from getting it restarted - that was a year ago, and it's still going ok. They seem to be fairly robust.

For short starts I've been just giving it a good burn at 6,000 rpm a couple of times for about 10 seconds before turning off. So far it's worked.

I flooded my engine over the weekend and followed the Mazda instructions by connecting the vacuum lines to a oil container to remove the gas in the chambers. It took me a while to get everything figure it out. The engine came back, a lot of smoke as expected. I warmed up and kept it running for an hour or so. Next day on my way to work, the car was working great I pushed a bit and the engine light came up flashing while I felt lost of power. I remove my foot from the accelerator and the light finally came up as a solid light. The car now seems normal, good power, acceleration, even to high RPM's, but the light still there constantly.

I have read already in some of the threads that misfiring is the reason for the engine light flashing, which explain the flashing and lost of power temporary, but now everything seems and feel normal, but the light still solid.

Any suggestions? Where else should I check?

Thanks

How many miles have you run with light on? If everything is truely ok, the system will eventually know that and sort itself out, it may just take a certain number of miles and drive cycles. However, you should try to get someone to read the engine code, because its never wise to drive around without knowing what the problem may be.

IMO since you said it got smokey, I wouldn't be surprised if one of your exhaust sensors was pissed off, which would just be a matter of time for it to go away.

I flooded my engine over the weekend and followed the Mazda instructions by connecting the vacuum lines to a oil container to remove the gas in the chambers. It took me a while to get everything figure it out. The engine came back, a lot of smoke as expected. I warmed up and kept it running for an hour or so. Next day on my way to work, the car was working great I pushed a bit and the engine light came up flashing while I felt lost of power. I remove my foot from the accelerator and the light finally came up as a solid light. The car now seems normal, good power, acceleration, even to high RPM's, but the light still there constantly.

I have read already in some of the threads that misfiring is the reason for the engine light flashing, which explain the flashing and lost of power temporary, but now everything seems and feel normal, but the light still solid.

Any suggestions? Where else should I check?

Thanks

Your CEL will remain on until the code is cleared. It can either be manually cleared by a tech or, depending on the code, clear on it's own. Take your car up to a chain autoparts store and they can read the code for you.

[quote=visionario;2851187]I flooded my engine over the weekend and followed the Mazda instructions by connecting the vacuum lines to a oil container to remove the gas in the chambers. It took me a while to get everything figure it out. The engine came back, a lot of smoke as expected. I warmed up and kept it running for an hour or so./quote]

I haven't seen these instructions - can you copy and post them?

I haven't seen these instructions - can you copy and post them?

http://www.finishlineperformance.com/pdf/rx8/bulletin/01-015-08-1883f.pdf

I have drove about 25 miles since Monday when the light came up. I will take the car to the autoparts store to check the codes. Is there a a description of the codes somewhere in the archives that I can access and compare?

I did not find the official Mazda procedure until I was already unflooded the engine. You can find what I did in the link below, although the procedure is quite similar, the Mazda is much better and clear.

http://www.fixya.com/cars/t1237382-2oo3_mazda_rx8_wont_start

Ok, I came back home today to take the car to the autoparts shop and the light is gone! I guess it need it time to clear. I took the car to the shop anyway and they read the codes, it had only a P0300.

P0300 Random misfire detected Flash/ON 1 or 2 Misfire ´ (See DTC P0300 )

Do you guys recommend to clear the memory? I have read the NVRAM and KAM reset procedure, but not sure if I need to it, or just leave it as it is, as the light is off and the engine is running fine.

Thanks for the inputs!

anybody know why if i don't start mine everyday it floodes

Are you sure its flooding, and not just taking a long time to start? This cold weather requires a long crank (for me) to start it up if it's been out in the cold for a few days.

no i smell gas and according to the manual it says to hold he pedal to the floor so no more gas enters the engine

2005 Shinka, 10K miles - Just had the flooding problem last week. Followed the de-flooding instructions, battery gave out quickly. Waited a day, tried again while jumper-cabled to my Porsche, after many cranks finally got it going (had to hold ignition while it was beginning to start until it "caught", big cloud of smoke, very rough running, engine started smoking after a few minutes, engine light flashing = not good). Had it towed to dealer, they say they replaced ignition coil and 2 leading plugs. Got it back - starts, BUT:

My question(s): After this problem, the car 'hesitates' when its starting (almost like a weak battery or very cold start). Also, when driving especially in 3rd gear, get a instantaneous hesitation as well (almost like somebody is hitting the brakes - no change in engine sound or RPMs). Dealer claimed they load-tested the battery and its OK, flashed the PCM again, says I'm crazy re: the hesitation when driving, said they couldn't duplicate (told me car has secondary intake system, which is what I might be feeling. Think I would have noticed this after 10,000 miles - it doesn't feel the same).

Any thoughts on either problem? Should I demand a new battery or starter? Ideas on the power 'hiccup'? All this after the flooding problem - ran like a champ before that.

2005 Shinka, 10K miles - Just had the flooding problem last week. Followed the de-flooding instructions, battery gave out quickly. Waited a day, tried again while jumper-cabled to my Porsche, after many cranks finally got it going (had to hold ignition while it was beginning to start until it "caught", big cloud of smoke, very rough running, engine started smoking after a few minutes, engine light flashing = not good). Had it towed to dealer, they say they replaced ignition coil and 2 leading plugs. Got it back - starts, BUT:

My question(s): After this problem, the car 'hesitates' when its starting (almost like a weak battery or very cold start). Also, when driving especially in 3rd gear, get a instantaneous hesitation as well (almost like somebody is hitting the brakes - no change in engine sound or RPMs). Dealer claimed they load-tested the battery and its OK, flashed the PCM again, says I'm crazy re: the hesitation when driving, said they couldn't duplicate (told me car has secondary intake system, which is what I might be feeling. Think I would have noticed this after 10,000 miles - it doesn't feel the same).

Any thoughts on either problem? Should I demand a new battery or starter? Ideas on the power 'hiccup'? All this after the flooding problem - ran like a champ before that.

check your cat, that coud be the problem.

My question(s): After this problem, the car 'hesitates' when its starting (almost like a weak battery or very cold start).

Interesting, I was just about to post that I've been having constant hard starts since my flood. I used to have the occasional hard start, but now it is every time. Could it be that I wore out my starter from all the cranking I did to get it going, or do you think it's a problem with the engine? It seems to run fine once it's started, though.

i tested this over and over on a cold start, i just cant get it to flood

i tested this over and over on a cold start, i just cant get it to flood

What year is yours?

I'm curious to know more, did you just turn the car on and off several times, or what?

its an 06, i tryed to flood it many ways, there was this one time it was a little hard to start but after about 4 sec it started

Interesting, I was just about to post that I've been having constant hard starts since my flood. I used to have the occasional hard start, but now it is every time. Could it be that I wore out my starter from all the cranking I did to get it going, or do you think it's a problem with the engine? It seems to run fine once it's started, though.
The dealer just fried my starter and wants me to pay for it.

They have yet to get it started and seems ignorant to TSBs on the flooding issues.

I had to fax them the TSB to replace the started.

In the end, I am expecting a blown motor. Right now I am just trying to avoid a fight over who will pay for the starter.

Good news. Starter will be paid for by the dealer.

its an 06, i tryed to flood it many ways, there was this one time it was a little hard to start but after about 4 sec it started

It depends on what "many ways" means. To properly test it, you need to give it one cold start and turn it off immediately without revving the motor. The leave it overnight.

I expect that the excess petrol remaining will dissolve the oil in the seals, and you won't have enough compression when you try to start next day - (just my impression of the problem).

If you test this, be prepared for getting it going again just in case - eg a serious jump start with a smoking starter motor, or a clutch start.

Recently I'v just been revving the motor to 6,000 RPM three times for about 10 seconds each before turning off - ok so far.

Get a remote engine starter !

I have it intalled on my current car that is an automatic transmission and have been extremely happy with it for over a year now. Great for winter as you can have your car warmed up before you actually go out and drive off. It shuts off after 10 minutes automatically, which I think is enough to bring the engine to optimum operating temprature. I hardly ever crank up the engine manually now. I love this thing!

Don't know whether it can be installed in a manual transmission car (like u must leave the car in Neutral everytime). Does anyone one have it on a manual?

More importantly, has anyone tried to install one on their manual transmission RX-8?

I have one installed on my manual. Yes, it works. You have to disable the clutch safety switch. But.!.!.!.... I did leave it in gear once (hate to admit to this) and it ran into a tree, cracking the nose cone.

I have one installed on my manual. Yes, it works. You have to disable the clutch safety switch. But.!.!.!.... I did leave it in gear once (hate to admit to this) and it ran into a tree, cracking the nose cone.

I don't understand why you need a remote starter. Don't you just start it and drive away? I always do. Perhaps you live in an extremely cold climate - eg less than 10 degC (50F) in winter.

my car flooded for the first time. is an 04. my dad help parked my car from the drive way in to the garage and this morning it didnt start.

gonna bring a jumper cable back home later and just keep dranking it.

anyone know a better way?

i tired alot things, even unplug the fuel fuse. and it helps a lil bit but still no go.

While my car was at the body shop getting fixed, they flooded my engine.

OR SO THEY THOUGHT. After failing to pull start it, I knew something else was wrong. Upon closer inspection, it turned out that they had failed to reconnect my Interceptor-X back to the battery. Cord was just hanging there :lol:

I don't understand why you need a remote starter. Don't you just start it and drive away? I always do. Perhaps you live in an extremely cold climate - eg less than 10 degC (50F) in winter.

Yea it is a bit colder here than Sydney... In a snow storm it's nice to have

my car flooded for the first time. is an 04. my dad help parked my car from the drive way in to the garage and this morning it didnt start.

gonna bring a jumper cable back home later and just keep dranking it.

anyone know a better way?

i tired alot things, even unplug the fuel fuse. and it helps a lil bit but still no go.


When you are cranking it hold your foot down on the gas peddle. If your plugs aren't fouled it should start.
Good luck

my car flooded for the first time. is an 04. my dad help parked my car from the drive way in to the garage and this morning it didnt start.

gonna bring a jumper cable back home later and just keep dranking it.

anyone know a better way?

i tired alot things, even unplug the fuel fuse. and it helps a lil bit but still no go.

I'm tipping he didn't give it a good rev before turning off.

You can read all the posts here, but what it boils down to is probably 4 options.

1. Pull the fuel fuse and do of cranks, then put the fuse in and try again. Don't touch the accelerator (though logic tells me to put foot to the floor while cranking when the fuse is out). Expect the starter to get pretty hot. Make sure you have plenty of amps available - add another battery with car running using jumper leads.

2. Clutch start if manual. (Many posts here rell of good success with this)

3. Remove spark plugs and inject engine oil to improve the compression (never tried it myself.

4. Take it to the dealer.

When you are cranking it hold your foot down on the gas peddle. If your plugs aren't fouled it should start.
Good luck

a buddy of mine did the same thing.....decided to start the car up and move it to a different spot..... we just did a push start and all good.


Good Luck!!!



Adam

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=139571

It helps to hold the Accelerator....

I have a 2004 Mazda RX8, for the first time I flooded my engine. I did the procedures the manual told me to do and now the car is driving normal. Am I good now or is there something I should?

My engine flooded like a week and a half ago. Now its at the dealer and im getting a whole new engine...

A non-empirical observation, but at a glance it appears the lower the post count the higher the incidence of flooding. ;)

Nary a flood for me and my '05.

A non-empirical observation, but at a glance it appears the lower the post count the higher the incidence of flooding. ;)

Nary a flood for me and my '05.

I am sure many people who flood join this forum soon after to learn more about the car they have angered.

That is insane! I contacted the Mazda dealership and they told me I would be fine. What kind of symptons did you get after a week?

today i was driving the 8 and i notice that at one point when i step on the gas i wasnt going as fast or picking up speed, then i shut off on me on the road. do any one know why this might happen.?

I am not sure but did you run out of gas?

I am not sure but did you run out of gas?

Or oil?

today i was driving the 8 and i notice that at one point when i step on the gas i wasnt going as fast or picking up speed, then i shut off on me on the road. do any one know why this might happen.?


Exact same thing happened to me last week. Was having problems starting of late (sometimes partially flooding engine i reckon cos pressing the accelerator trick got me out of it). Noticed the car suddenly picked up speed soon after starting - almost a quick yank or jerk. After 10 -15 mins of perfect driving she just lost all power and wanted to stall. MAnaged to coast to my destination though. Got her serviced (45,000 miles and was just due), new spark plugs etc and everyting seemed great. They also put in a good will request for a modified starter system and battery which is available. While i was waiting on them confirming they would contribute towards it, same thing happened again only more dificult to start and was getting vibrations - suggesting lot of unburned fuel in chamber perhaps. They looked at it again and turns out the catalytic converter is pretty much destroyed.

Not sure if the cat problem is a cause or effect of the problems starting - might have damaged it over a period of time with poor starting, I don't know. They are definitely related though - I reckon the lambda sensor in the damaged cat was probably confusing the engine management system.

Anyone any thoughts on all this?

As of today mazda are contributing 70% towards parts and labour for new cat and starter system. Total cost would have been €3000 plus but now under €1000. Car is just over 5 years old and out of warranty so am pretty happy :)

in summary stx0174, maybe have your cat checked...hope it's ok!

i took my 8 to the dealer yesterday n they said that the stater is bad...then they call me n say that the batterie is dead.i dont really know wat the cat is but i will find out and get it check.

no..i had my oil changed n i had my tank full on friday

Thanks alot for the tip, I am definetely going to take a look at it. Hope all goes well with your RX8 man.

2004 MT, wouldn't start today!!! occured when i moved my car in to the drive way and turned it off without letting it warm up, first thought it was the battery, jumped it nothing, did not want to flood it more than wat it was soo it was towed away to a mazda dealership, thank good i go that extended warranty

1st time this has happened to me and I'm very frustrated. Can't get my baby to start. =0( But the help in the forums have been great. They are super detailed and right on. I'm just not having any luck.

This happened to me for the first time yesterday. Mazda de-flooding prcedures via the manual did not work. However, I called the dealership and Mazda came though big time. They told me to call Mazda roadside assitance and have the car towed to the dealership to be looked at and repaired if necessary. The dealership resolved the flooding problem and upgraded my spark plugs based on a TSB I didn't know about. All free of charge under the extended engine warranty. They told me to call whenever it happens again and they will go through the same process. I was very surprised, and extrememly impressed. The car was hauled in at 9 am and I was back on the road by 1 pm. Great way to get yourt plugs replaced for free :wink2:

Zoom on

do you have any mods under the hood?

....All free of charge under the extended engine warranty....


5yr /60k or 8yr/100k?

No mods. 8yr/100k.

I need some help guys. I have a 2004 RX-8 with 25k miles that flooded for the first time. THe dealer wants 1200 to fix it to replace coils, spark plugs, and to deflood it. I found the TSB 01-015/08 however they stated I had a previously a older version of it done and that I could not use the TSB to cover my flood. Do you guys know if you can use this TSB (01-015/08) to cover it again? I had the older one done in 06.

I need some help guys. I have a 2004 RX-8 with 25k miles that flooded for the first time. THe dealer wants 1200 to fix it to replace coils, spark plugs, and to deflood it. I found the TSB 01-015/08 however they stated I had a previously a older version of it done and that I could not use the TSB to cover my flood. Do you guys know if you can use this TSB (01-015/08) to cover it again? I had the older one done in 06.

As I mentioned above, this was covered 100% by the dealership when it happened to me under the 8 year/100K extended engine warranty. I think it's f'ing rediculous that there isn't consistency across dealerships for this. If I were you I would'nt even bother with the dealership and just call Mazda roadside assist. They will tell you the flood is covered and should tow your car to the nearest dealership for repair. Also, if you want to call the dealership I dealt with to get the information you need on how this is covered, feel free:

Doug's Lynwood Mazda
http://www.seattlemazda.com/


Best of luck

As long as there is nothing wrong with coil packs or plugs then just tow start , 15 mph and 2nd gear. When it starts then run until warm. Works for me everytime, 3 to date, as carried out by the AA in UK. Also it is free.

thanks for the info. this is my first time ever flooding and I had my car since 03. They do have to replace my plugs and coils. I got it down to 950 total since I bought the parts on my own to have them replace. A major bummer, I even talked to the district manager and corporate, no help. Gonna try a letter

thanks for the info. this is my first time ever flooding and I had my car since 03. They do have to replace my plugs and coils. I got it down to 950 total since I bought the parts on my own to have them replace. A major bummer, I even talked to the district manager and corporate, no help. Gonna try a letter

How do you know that the plugs and coil need replacing? I've flooded 3 times, and they got it going. I'm just wondering if you're taking their word for it. I guess it's a bit hard if the car is already at the repairers. Too bad you didn't try the clutch start.

sadly i wasn't there to see it, but my g/f said the Rx-8 wouldn't even crank. turning the key did nothing. since we don't own remote, i was thinking it was possibly security system related!! ended up towing it to dealership and they said it was 'flooded'. i picture floodig causing it not to start after it was turning over for a while, not what she was experiencing.

can the engine know it's flooded and not turn over?

sadly i wasn't there to see it, but my g/f said the Rx-8 wouldn't even crank. turning the key did nothing. since we don't own remote, i was thinking it was possibly security system related!! ended up towing it to dealership and they said it was 'flooded'. i picture floodig causing it not to start after it was turning over for a while, not what she was experiencing.

can the engine know it's flooded and not turn over?

Not if it's the same car I have. I've flooded three times, and eventually got it started by pulling the petrol pump fuse and cranking for about half an hour. I know of no way that flooding would disable the cranking.

No, it's stopping the engine while it's still cold that can cause flooding.
I flooded mine once, had to let it sit for a day.. no problems after that, just didnt turn it off right away

I never had a problem with my '06 until i wrecked it turning it up on the passenger side for several minutes...............it is currently in the body shop and they called askin why it won't start........... The replaced a main fuse, and are still haveing issues any ideas what else to do please let me know.

I never had a problem with my '06 until i wrecked it turning it up on the passenger side for several minutes...............it is currently in the body shop and they called askin why it won't start........... The replaced a main fuse, and are still haveing issues any ideas what else to do please let me know.

We need more information. Does the motor turn over when cranked? If so, it's possible flooding. Clutch start is probably best. Otherwise, pull out the fuel pump fuse, connect a big battery and do lots of cranking. Crank on and off for about 10 seconds at a time, have a short break, then do it again. After about 4 or 5 of these, try it with the fuse in. It might take an hour. If smoke starts coming off the starter, give it a cooling break for a few minutes.

deflood procedure:
first, take out spark plug and blow air until all gas is gone.
second, take out fuel pump fuse and crank engine for 5-8 seconds with 10 seconds interval. make sure you are hook up with a charger.
when you can't smell anymore gas coming from engine or from the spark plug hole then you could install the spark plugs and fuel pump fuse.

I never had a problem with my '06 until i wrecked it turning it up on the passenger side for several minutes...............it is currently in the body shop and they called askin why it won't start........... The replaced a main fuse, and are still haveing issues any ideas what else to do please let me know.
I had the same thing happen to me while the car was at the body shop. I went there and did the Mazda recommended procedure, which is put the throttle to the floor and crank it. Let the throttle out after a while during cranking. It started for me that time, but would not work a previous time when I had to have the car towed to the dealer. That time I even took the plugs out and dried them. No go.

You don't have to remove any fuses to prevent gas flow. It is cut off if you floor the throttle.

deflood procedure:
first, take out spark plug and blow air until all gas is gone.
second, take out fuel pump fuse and crank engine for 5-8 seconds with 10 seconds interval. make sure you are hook up with a charger.
when you can't smell anymore gas coming from engine or from the spark plug hole then you could install the spark plugs and fuel pump fuse.
I can't even find the spark plugs in mine!!!

I can't even find the spark plugs in mine!!!

Take off the front driver's side tire and look through the mud guards.
Can't miss them ;)
Read through this DIY on how to remove the plugs. It also has pics!
http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=145045

Yep, pull the driver's-front wheel and detach the mud flap and you can't miss them (all four straight in). btw: a socket extension with a 'wobble' joint really helps.

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21349&d=1087771593

Take off the front driver's side tire and look through the mud guards.
Can't miss them ;)
Read through this DIY on how to remove the plugs. It also has pics!
http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=145045

Yep, pull the driver's-front wheel and detach the mud flap and you can't miss them (all four straight in). btw: a socket extension with a 'wobble' joint really helps.

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21349&d=1087771593
Does this apply to right had or left hand drive or both?

Ok so after replacing the ignition system, my engine is flooded.... I'm in the process of cranking it with the spark plugs out, but I did not disconnect the Eccentric Shaft Position Sensor, does anyone know if that is going to cause any damage?

LOL :) They don't reverse the engine orientation when they go from left to right hand drive, or vice versa, but I see where you're coming from. How about left-front (or port-forward) wheel removal. ;)

Does this apply to right had or left hand drive or both?

I had never flooded my MT 05 in 4 years but did this week by moving it and shutting it down quickly to put another car in garage. :banghead:Called dealer who said the tow and repairs were my responsibility with 65k miles and would be at least $350. I did the de-flooding procedure in the manual but all it did was weaken my battery and it never sounded like it was close to starting. So, I hit the forum and read about pumping windshield washing fluid into the engine and then followed the starting procedure and it started up on the 4th try. The forum is awesome. Thanks so much. :)

could somebody post a link to the thread which contains this DIY of winshield washer injection for curing a flooded rotary? ive searched, but i cant seem to find it. anybody that could point me in that direction would be a HUGE help.... ive got a week to get this fixed and im trying to keep it away from the dealership, im making a deals gap run in 12 days and i HAVE to have my car ready, lol. as for the flooding... it sucks... bad. i pulled the plugs, cleaned them up, did the de-flood procedure, with no progress. it sounded like it wasnt to start a few times, but its like its just not sparking at all..... if i have to use the dealer, i will, but i want to try to fix this myself. this being the first rotary ive ever owned, im iterested to learn more about it and repairing things like this will give me somewhat of a better understanding on how to deal with future problems...

could somebody post a link to the thread which contains this DIY of winshield washer injection for curing a flooded rotary?

Here is my single post after performing it:
http://www.rx8club.com/showpost.php?p=2771378&postcount=89

could somebody post a link to the thread which contains this DIY of winshield washer injection for curing a flooded rotary? ive searched, but i cant seem to find it. anybody that could point me in that direction would be a HUGE help.... ive got a week to get this fixed and im trying to keep it away from the dealership, im making a deals gap run in 12 days and i HAVE to have my car ready, lol. as for the flooding... it sucks... bad. i pulled the plugs, cleaned them up, did the de-flood procedure, with no progress. it sounded like it wasnt to start a few times, but its like its just not sparking at all..... if i have to use the dealer, i will, but i want to try to fix this myself. this being the first rotary ive ever owned, im iterested to learn more about it and repairing things like this will give me somewhat of a better understanding on how to deal with future problems...

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=55517.html

I used the "index" sticky to find it..

- Mike

i have succesfully de-flooded my engine, she runs fine, no problems, just in need of a new fuel filter/pump, whatever that assembly is. sometime in the next 2 weeks that should be done.

i have succesfully de-flooded my engine

Which method did you use to get it going?

moved my car last night in the driveway didnt give a second thought to turning it off becuase i usually drive my car everyday where its already warm in some way when i move it so it comes up to temperature fast enough
didnt drive it yesterday at all and i moved it last night with no warm up
this morning i
had to be somewhere at nine and its flooded!
great i dont think im under warranty in any way what the average cost for the dealer to fix it?
can waiting a few days to get it fixed cause damage to my engine?

Read the manual. There is a DIY method in there that you should try first.

Fully depress the accelerator pedal(pedal to floor) - This will cut off fuel from entering the engine.
Turn the key like you are trying to start your car for 5-10 seconds WITH the pedal to the floor.
Wait 30-60 seconds and repeat. Most people do this 2-3 times before attempting to start the car.
Try to start your car normally.

If this doesn't work, you can either pay Mazda or you can find the DIY that requires to to disconnect the Eccentri Shaft Sensor(right?), fuel pump fuse(maybe) and remove the spark plugs. Crank to get gas out of engine, clean plugs, etc.

Good Luck

i couldnt get it to start
i probably didnt do the deflood technique right

but the tow truck just came
how much do you think the bill will be?

i couldnt get it to start
i probably didnt do the deflood technique right

but the tow truck just came
how much do you think the bill will be?

If they don't cover it under warranty, $200-$300

Well count me in. No flooding problems since buying the 8 in 11/04. Two days ago the kids moved it around in the driveway w/ a subsequent no start. Tried the OM solution and pulled the FP fuse... no joy. Getting it towed to the dealer later on today. I have an aftermarket extended warranty on it plus the OEM extended powertrain warranty. Just a hair under 30k on it now. We'll see what happens.

Well count me in. No flooding problems since buying the 8 in 11/04. Two days ago the kids moved it around in the driveway w/ a subsequent no start. Tried the OM solution and pulled the FP fuse... no joy. Getting it towed to the dealer later on today. I have an aftermarket extended warranty on it plus the OEM extended powertrain warranty. Just a hair under 30k on it now. We'll see what happens.

Keep us informed, and work the kids over.

I rev my car to 4000 rpm before shuting down... i don't care if it's hot or not:wiggle:
This way it's never gonna flood

I thought you were suppose to rev to 3k rpm? I thought 4k rpm was counter productive since it allows more gas or opens ports or something.

i deflooded my car yesterday using the 'easy' method of pulling just the fuel pump fuse and cranking for 10 seconds on, 20 seconds off repeated 5 times.

this is a lot easier than pulling the plugs.

i will note that all three times my car has flooded it was after moving the car a short distance, sometimes partially warmed up and sometimes less so, then letting it sit for a week.

i deflooded my car yesterday using the 'easy' method of pulling just the fuel pump fuse and cranking for 10 seconds on, 20 seconds off repeated 5 times.

this is a lot easier than pulling the plugs.

i will note that all three times my car has flooded it was after moving the car a short distance, sometimes partially warmed up and sometimes less so, then letting it sit for a week.

So, am I right in assuming you fut the fuse back in after these 5 repetitions? I'd be interested in hearing from others whether this is repeatable. My experience is that this might work if you're lucky, but don't count on it.

Depressing the gas pedal fully when starting also cuts out the fuel pump; even easier.

But then, I've never flooded. ;)

When you start and move a short distance, bring the RPMs up to 4k or higher for a sec or two before shutting down and you are guaranteed not to flood the engine.

>So, am I right in assuming you fut the fuse back in after these 5 repetitions? I'd
>be interested in hearing from others whether this is repeatable. My experience
>is that this might work if you're lucky, but don't count on it.

uh yeah, if you dont put the fuse back in the car isnt going to start. :)

i might have been lucky.

will do more revving in the future.

oddly, i never once flooded the rx7 i used to have, and it had 150K+ miles on it.

thanks!

I actually hold it at 3k for 10 seconds and then quickly shut off the ignition/foot off the gas pedal while the rev's are still up. Has never failed me. You can hear the excess fuel being dissipated.

When you start and move a short distance, bring the RPMs up to 4k or higher for a sec or two before shutting down and you are guaranteed not to flood the engine.

the numbers on that poll are astonishing lol ... i did flood mine but i did the deflood and it worked on the 5th try

When you start and move a short distance, bring the RPMs up to 4k or higher for a sec or two before shutting down and you are guaranteed not to flood the engine.

I remember reading somewhere in the forums that reving over 3k before shut down was counter productive.

Revving over 5k is counter productive as the secondary fuel injectors will cut in, hence the 3k held for 10 seconds.

I remember reading somewhere in the forums that reving over 3k before shut down was counter productive.

I actually hold it at 3k for 10 seconds and then quickly shut off the ignition/foot off the gas pedal while the rev's are still up. Has never failed me. You can hear the excess fuel being dissipated.

4k came from the dealership technician so I have used that, but either will work if you get the excess fuel out, and yes you are right on hearing that dissipate; it's a great indicator of when to shut down.

After having my rx8 for a year, I managed to flood it when moving it out of the driveway. Stupid move. However I didnt realise until I went to drive it 12 hours later.
So I tried everything in the book / this forum to get it started - got nothing. Couldn't take the plugs out myself so didnt try that one.

Sent it back to my dealer - they finally got it barely started after draining the plugs and jump starting it. They reckon that the o2 sensor is gone (fair enough) but also the cat convertor, rear muffler and pipes between the rear muffler. All of that to fix? $5700 (australian $) unbelievable! After I only thought it was flooded! So I basically told them to stick it, they can replace the o2 sensor and I'll get an aftermarket full new exhaust on it for $1500. Much better. However I don't quite trust that the exhaust stuff isnt just blocked and not actually broken..

I used to have a R33 skyline but sold it after I had to replace the motor - a tidy $6k (aud) so hence why I bought a newer and more reliable car. Well I love it to bits but am completely unimpressed that this has happened! I'll let you know how I go at the exhaust shop..

Well my 2004 rx8 manual trans. just flooded on me yesterday...ain't that just about a bitch!
I was over in Nicaragua for 3 weeks spending time with family....and my mom's fiance said he wanted to move my 8 for something he wanted to do with his 67' mustang.
Well he said he started it then without giving it time to warm up moved it forward about 3 or 4 yards then quickly shut it off.
Four days later I arrive home in Dallas, Tx (weather is F'ing hot here) attempt to check my car and sure enough.....nada!

So my question is..how do I repair this problem myself.....

I suggest a clutch start, otherwise, just read back over the posts, otherwise, we'll jjust repeat what's alreday been said.

Just got my 8 last year and she flooded on me 1 time... mechanic told me not 2 quick start and turn car off..let her run for 5 to 10 mintutes ...totally not user friendly......always rev UP before shutting down for about 6 to 8 seconds....works like a charm...no problems since.....

All i do is make sure it has ran for about five minutes before i shut it off. If you complain about the gas that it takes then you probably shouldnt have got a rx-8 lol but i have never had a problem with it flooding.

Hi...Can someone advise when changing out spark plug wires do you need change out ignition coils?...and if you have any recommendations that would be great!

you don't HAVE to change out the wires but depending on the mileage of the vehicle and how long those wires have been in there, I'd recommend looking into it.

I've used Racing Beat wires which are good but now BHR has some great replacement wires.
send a PM to Charles R. Hill for pricing

Went on vacation, came back 10 days later. Started up my 04 RX-8 with no problems. Apparently, I did not warm it up long enough. The next day it did not start. Through this RX8Club website I did what others suggested. It works but a big pain in the ***. I had to connect my battery to another vehicle battery (for strength) and crank it for a 1/2 hour. Eventually, a large amount of smoke poofs out the exhaust and it starts. Now, all is fine. It is not fun and you need a lot of patience. I was just not aware that when the car sits for a while it needs to be driven or thoroughly warmed up.

We have high temps here in Calif. so now I am watching the heat and oil. Grrr!!!



Well my 2004 rx8 manual trans. just flooded on me yesterday...ain't that just about a bitch!
I was over in Nicaragua for 3 weeks spending time with family....and my mom's fiance said he wanted to move my 8 for something he wanted to do with his 67' mustang.
Well he said he started it then without giving it time to warm up moved it forward about 3 or 4 yards then quickly shut it off.
Four days later I arrive home in Dallas, Tx (weather is F'ing hot here) attempt to check my car and sure enough.....nada!

So my question is..how do I repair this problem myself.....

Mine flooded today for the first time, 2004. Actually I came inside to look up the firing order. I followed everything as stated in the TSB and it will not start. Pulling these plugs are a royal PITA.

So I pulled the plugs, disco'd the crank angle sensor, cranked it to clean chambers, put plugs back in, no go.

Pulled plugs again, disco'd the crank angle sensor, cranked it to clean chambers, put some oil in the leading spark plug holes, reinstalled a different set of spark plugs, still no go. I'm waiting on a new set up plugs from the dealer ($130 ouch) so we'll see what happens with the new plugs. Wish me luck cause this sucks bigtime!!!

Anthony

Mine flooded today for the first time, 2004. Actually I came inside to look up the firing order. I followed everything as stated in the TSB and it will not start. Pulling these plugs are a royal PITA.

So I pulled the plugs, disco'd the crank angle sensor, cranked it to clean chambers, put plugs back in, no go.

Pulled plugs again, disco'd the crank angle sensor, cranked it to clean chambers, put some oil in the leading spark plug holes, reinstalled a different set of spark plugs, still no go. I'm waiting on a new set up plugs from the dealer ($130 ouch) so we'll see what happens with the new plugs. Wish me luck cause this sucks bigtime!!!

Anthony

Why didn't you try a clutch start? From reports here, it seems very reliable. (I'm assuming you have a manual - surely they don't make an automatic)

Why didn't you try a clutch start? From reports here, it seems very reliable. (I'm assuming you have a manual - surely they don't make an automatic)

It's an auto. I finally got her started. What a pain the ass getting to the plugs!!!

It's an auto. I finally got her started. What a pain the ass getting to the plugs!!!

Do you know what caused it? Turned off when cold?

Do you know what caused it? Turned off when cold?

Yep, I moved her to get another car out of the garage and no start.

Yep, I moved her to get another car out of the garage and no start.

Yep, that will do it. I bet you left it for a few hours after the short move before trying to start it again.

Remember always get it up to 6,000 RPM for about 10 secs before turning off if it's cold. I also like to warm the engine until the idle speed is reduced. I haven't had any problems since doing this.

Yep, I moved her to get another car out of the garage and no start.

:uh: NEVER START THE CAR AND TURN IT OFF WITHOUT WORMING UP FIRST!!!! :)

:uh: NEVER START THE CAR AND TURN IT OFF WITHOUT WORMING UP FIRST!!!! :)

Yes, make sure you worm up the car first. The best way to do this is to leave some pork in the car overnight.

mine has never flooded but i do live in miami so its pretty hot here.... best thiing i can tell anyone is if u have 5 min let it warm it wont kill u and it will keep it from ever happening:worship:

I thought this was fixed in a recall years ago. Is it just a flaw in the engine design then? I ran into this problem for the second time on my manual 2005 this weekend. I know I'm to blame, but this is still a pain. I moved my car to the back of my driveway Friday, but made sure I ran it for a few minutes revving it up to 3-4k rpm before turning it off thinking I was following the right voodoo technique I've read here many times. Apparently I read wrong and should have revved to 6000rpm instead. Either way Sunday it wouldn't turn over. I tried for easily half an hour to get it going, but no dice. Pulled the fuse for the fuel injection, did the flooring the gas trick, etc but ended up getting it towed. I'm really hoping my extended warranty takes care of it this time because they already told me I'd get hit with a $100 fee just to check it.
Love the RX-8, hate the reliability.
And for the record, it was 60 degrees here in Jersey yesterday so temperature was not a factor. Next time I move my car I'm going to make sure to drive it like a bat out of hell for a few miles while doing so!

Well the dealer just called and said it wasn't flooded (?!) but that my battery was dead. That's strange since I got a jump and it still didn't start.
They said I had two outstanding tech bulletins for 'spark cranking' as far back as 12/26/08, it needed a new fuel filter and battery for a total of $510. They're only charging me for the battery and fuel filter though because the other stuff is still covered by the warranty. Considering my battery is only a year old and I got a jump yesterday I find this all hard to believe.

When mine flooded last year dealer initally refused to coverit under warranty but when I showed them all printouts of warranty info they agreed to cover under warranty. Also they said the flooding was caused by a weak battery and changed my battery also.. They ofcourse charged me for the battery..

When mine flooded last year dealer initally refused to coverit under warranty but when I showed them all printouts of warranty info they agreed to cover under warranty. Also they said the flooding was caused by a weak battery and changed my battery also.. They ofcourse charged me for the battery..

What did you show them about warranty info that convinced them it was covered under warranty?

I'm new to this forum and have been contemplating a RX-8 for some time. I am not new to rotary engines as I had a 1987 for the better part of 8 years (wish I still had it). It too had trouble with flooding when I 1st bought it but was told by a rotary tuner that installing a MSD ignition amplifier would solve the problem. I installed the MSD along with new wires and plugs and never had another issue. I have spent a couple hours searching (both here and the net) and have yet to see the MSD mentioned. I know the car I had and the RX-8 are vastly diff beasts but can't the same be done to the 8? I am here to learn and to offer what I know so please don't flame.

What did you show them about warranty info that convinced them it was covered under warranty?

There was nothing specific about the warranty but these guys wanted me to charge for the cost but when I showed them the warranty print out which talks about the exact same situation they finally relented and said they will do this as a one time good will repair or some BS like that.. They tried to charge me 120$ to verify flooding which they took off after I complained about the fact that there was nothing to verify and I could have told them the engine was flooded...

Had mine towed to the dealer monday when it wouldn't start. Flooded...had all plugs replaced, etc...

I was backing out of the garage and it just cut out...kinda scary. I think I flooded it when attempting to crank after it died.
yes that happened to me but what i do is i take the fuel pump relay out and the fuel fuse from the front and crank it a couple of times so the fuel that is in the injector will clear out and i has always work for me every time is flooded...

Well my 2004 rx8 manual trans. just flooded on me yesterday...ain't that just about a bitch!
I was over in Nicaragua for 3 weeks spending time with family....and my mom's fiance said he wanted to move my 8 for something he wanted to do with his 67' mustang.
Well he said he started it then without giving it time to warm up moved it forward about 3 or 4 yards then quickly shut it off.
Four days later I arrive home in Dallas, Tx (weather is F'ing hot here) attempt to check my car and sure enough.....nada!

So my question is..how do I repair this problem myself.....
yes that happened to me but what i do is i take the fuel pump relay out and the fuel fuse from the front and crank it a couple of times so the fuel that is in the injector will clear out make sure after u crank it a couple of times for a while then put the relay and fuse back and try turning it on if it doesn't work keep doing it it will turn on and it has always worked for me every time mines flooded...

No need to mess with relays - if you push the pedal to the floor on startup, the computer will send NO fuel to the injectors.

Little feature for exactly this situation.

S

My 8 has been hesitant to start ever since the dealer worked on it. Every morning as the temperature gets lower and lower the car sounds worse and worse as it slowly turns over. I'm not mechanically inclined so arguing with the dealer that I think it's the starter is only going to result in them charging me for a new starter and not actually looking into whether that's the actual problem. I wish there was a local rotary specialist I could trust because I'd be happy to just replace/upgrade whatever needs to be replaced/upgraded so the car will start every morning without worry.
As it is though I think I'll be selling my 8 :( It's just not as reliable as it used to be and I need something that will start in the morning. I may stay in the Mazda family and look at the new Mazdaspeed3, but I've also been eying the MINI Cooper S!

Check your Battery first. You may need something with a higher CCA

Yeah, sounds like the battery needs to be replaced, not the starter, not the whole car. That's like trading in a car because the windshield wipers are in need of replacement.
My battery is on the charger as I type this. It let me down after less than 1 week idle time. I probably need one too. It's the one they gave me to replace the original lame model battery - an attempt in the beginning to crank the engine faster to reduce the likelyhood of flooding. It's been cranking sluggishly lately, so I wasn't too surprised when this time it only sat there and clicked instead of turning-over the engine.

Optima Yellow or Red Top and deflooding procedure and you should be good to go

Check your Battery first. You may need something with a higher CCAI agree - check the battery, and the charger. You could even put a battery charger on overnight, then try starting next morning. If it turns over strongly, it's either the battery, or the alternator system. One other possibility, often overlooked, is a bad battery connection. Pull off the battery connections, clean them up with some sand paper (both the battery and terminals) and try again.

I once had the starter motor changed, when it was just a dirty connection (not the RX8).

Generally, starter motors either work or they don't.

^ Agreed. I'm leaning towards bad battery. He mentions as the weather gets colder, it sounds "worse". This is probably do to the fact his battery is weak and has low CCA. If it was the alternator, the battery would be completely dead by now. He most likely has a low CCA battery, the weather got really cold, and his multiple attempts to start the car flooded the engine.

Here's the battery info that I just got off of mine. It's been a champ until just lately. Mazda # 0000-80-6535-WB. Group 35. 640 CCA

About cleaning, get a good old generic cable 'n' post cleaning tool. They're cheap as dirt, and easily found in any place that sells auto parts. They are a combination "male" wire brush part that cleans the hole in the cable end, and a "female" wire brush that cleans the batery posts. They work so doggon effortlessly, and they can't embed non-conducting sand particles into the soft metal.

Why use a Mazda Battery when you can go to Auto Zone and pick up a yellow or red top optima battery with a three year warranty? I know I will be getting a free battery after the winter is over :)

No argument, if you can pick one that is compatible. I just had the info in my hand and thought somebody might want the Mazda numbers. I think I saw a sticker on it saying it also has a 36 month warranty, although I'm sure it's pro-rated.
Anyway, mine isn't dead yet afterall, it seems to be holding a charge ok. The electrolyte wasn't low in any of the cells either...

I have flooded my engine too. The procedure in the manual didnt do a thing for me. I live an estimated 45 minutes away from the nearest mazda dealer. So, instead of getting it towed anywhere, found out you can unplug the fuel pump fuse. Attempt to start it up, when it sounds clear, pop the fuse back in, and start 'er up.

(Sorry, I have no idea that it may have been mentioned before, 77 pages is quite a bit of info...)

^ or just keep the pedal to the floor prior to de-flood starting, which also cuts off fuel flow.

I have flooded my engine too. The procedure in the manual didnt do a thing for me. I live an estimated 45 minutes away from the nearest mazda dealer. So, instead of getting it towed anywhere, found out you can unplug the fuel pump fuse. Attempt to start it up, when it sounds clear, pop the fuse back in, and start 'er up.

(Sorry, I have no idea that it may have been mentioned before, 77 pages is quite a bit of info...)

Yes, it's been covered before, but it's good to re-live it. Be prepared that this might required repeated attempts over an hour, and a smoking starter motor (and battery boost)

My 8 has been flooded for a week now, ive read everything and tryed cutting off the fuel supply etc. but it still wont crank so i guess i have to take it to tha dealership...what a headache...

^ Thread Jack Much?

If it isnt cranking, it is most likely the battery, your alternator could be bad draining the battery, or it could the starter. I'm leaning towards battery since it has been flooded for a week and you were messing around with it. Start with battery. Then, you will have to do the CORRECT deflood procedure that involves disconnecting a few sensors, pulling the spark plugs and cranking the engine with spark plugs off to remove excess fluids from the engine.

the numbers on that poll are astonishing lol ... i did flood mine but i did the deflood and it worked on the 5th try
The numbers would be more astonishing if one could change one's vote. I voted when mine had not yet flooded. Shortly afterwords it flooded twice.

^ Thread Jack Much?

If it isnt cranking, it is most likely the battery, your alternator could be bad draining the battery, or it could the starter. I'm leaning towards battery since it has been flooded for a week and you were messing around with it. Start with battery. Then, you will have to do the CORRECT deflood procedure that involves disconnecting a few sensors, pulling the spark plugs and cranking the engine with spark plugs off to remove excess fluids from the engine.

yeah i checked my battery and it is kinda low i guess from all the cranking, i ordered me some ngk spark plugs and when they come in ima pull my old ones and see what i got, hopefully that will do the trick, i found a post with a more extensive procedure than what i first found, thanks for the help bro, ill let u know what happens

Ok, so i just put in the BHR ignition coil kit, and brand new ngk sparkplugs exactly a week ago today, came home after driving (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) for prolly a good 30min parked it for about 3 days. Some of which were pretty cold, then i go to start and and its a no go, i tried jumping it, the push all the way in on the gas, and remove the fuelhttp://images.intellitxt.com/ast/adTypes/2_bing.gif (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) pump fuse methods...no go. Anyone know what the problem could be...starter, battery any ideas? :confused:

Ok, so i just put in the BHR ignition coil kit, and brand new ngk sparkplugs exactly a week ago today, came home after driving (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) for prolly a good 30min parked it for about 3 days. Some of which were pretty cold, then i go to start and and its a no go, i tried jumping it, the push all the way in on the gas, and remove the fuelhttp://images.intellitxt.com/ast/adTypes/2_bing.gif (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) pump fuse methods...no go. Anyone know what the problem could be...starter, battery any ideas? :confused:

Can you just confirm that it's cranking over ok.
Can you check if you have a spark - eg remove a plug and see if there's a spark.

Ok, so i just put in the BHR ignition coil kit, and brand new ngk sparkplugs exactly a week ago today, came home after driving (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) for prolly a good 30min parked it for about 3 days. Some of which were pretty cold, then i go to start and and its a no go, i tried jumping it, the push all the way in on the gas, and remove the fuelhttp://images.intellitxt.com/ast/adTypes/2_bing.gif (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=3359427#) pump fuse methods...no go. Anyone know what the problem could be...starter, battery any ideas? :confused:

Also, what do you mean by pretty cold? I regard that as about 10degC (ie 50 degF).

If it's cranking ok, then it's not the battery or starter. If you've used a jumper, you've eliminated the battery anyway.

Also, what do you mean by pretty cold? I regard that as about 10degC (ie 50 degF).
ow
If it's cranking ok, then it's not the battery or starter. If you've used a jumper, you've eliminated the battery anyway.

As in South Carolina cold probably not much less than 40F, since its not the battery now are we left with flooded or fuel pump mabe? how would i check the fuel pump? im going to pull the sparkplugs right now to check if its flooded.

Flooded my '04 RX8 today for the first time...followed ALFY's DIY on deflooding and it worked like a charm. I jumped it and then cleared it through about 20 starts...shot out a ton of smoke and has been running fine since. Hopefully I didn't melt my cat, i'll probably take a look at it this week at some point.

I finallly flooded mine. Like everybody else I did something stupid like a quick start. It snowed here and I didnt want to drive my 8 so I asked a friend to pick me up for work. He was running a lil late so I cleaned off my car and was just going to drive it. As soon as I started it he pulled up. I turned it off and jumped in his truck. I was in a rush because we were running late.


Well, today I get cranks but no start and its still cold out. Im going to do the jumper method first.

Couple of questions tho.

1. First you crank with you the pedal down (10 secs)
2. Wait 30-60 secs and crank it with the pedal up and wait 30-60 secs again?
3. Repeat 1 and 2 until it starts?

Got her running again. Bought some heavy duty jumpers and jumped the shit out of her until she started. All is good again.

Hi All,

1. I think I just flooded the engine but I could be wrong, I drove the car on the high way route 13 north in Ithaca, it was a very cold nite (20F), it's a AT one, I cranked to 5-6k rpm to burn out the carbon residue (may be it's a dump idea after all) and took out the exit but I saw the traffic light so I sharply stop the car and ... the car lose rmp rapidly and just shut off the engine .... I tried many times to start up but it didn't work and now the battery was dead. Is this a flooding engine ? I hit the acc paddle quite hard to achieve 5k-6k rpm since it was quite a steep hill up on the high way.

2. If it is a flooded engine, please please kindly suggest how to fix it? I prob need another car to jump up on the dead battery.

Thanks!!!!

Have you verified the battery connections are secured/tight?
Take the battery to the local Autozone to test and charge it.
Once you get the car running, measure the voltage at the battery (with the car running) and it should be ~14.4V

Hey Jon316G,

I am sure that it's not the battery issue since I drove it quite a while before the engine shut off at the exit traffic light.

Pls Anyone Any clue what was going on with my car ? :(

For a car to just shut off while driving you first look at either the alternator not charging the battery or the battery itself.
Its an easy thing to eliminate and is a common cause for issues similar to yours.
But since you are so sure its not I'll just let someone else chime in.
Good luck.

Hi All,

1. I think I just flooded the engine but I could be wrong, I drove the car on the high way route 13 north in Ithaca, it was a very cold nite (20F), it's a AT one, I cranked to 5-6k rpm to burn out the carbon residue (may be it's a dump idea after all) and took out the exit but I saw the traffic light so I sharply stop the car and ... the car lose rmp rapidly and just shut off the engine .... I tried many times to start up but it didn't work and now the battery was dead. Is this a flooding engine ? I hit the acc paddle quite hard to achieve 5k-6k rpm since it was quite a steep hill up on the high way.

2. If it is a flooded engine, please please kindly suggest how to fix it? I prob need another car to jump up on the dead battery.

Thanks!!!!

It doesn't sound like a flooding problem. It could be lots of things. Alternator is a strong possibility, fuel blockage, fuel pump,fuel pump fuse etc. Probably needs some trained skills to fix.

Got her running again. Bought some heavy duty jumpers and jumped the shit out of her until she started. All is good again.
Good news. Thanks for the feedback. I tried to reply to your questions, but the web site wouldn't accept them yesterday.

It doesn't sound like a flooding problem. It could be lots of things. Alternator is a strong possibility, fuel blockage, fuel pump,fuel pump fuse etc. Probably needs some trained skills to fix.

An issue with the fuel system is always a possibility, but the keyword he mentioned that strays away from that theory is that his battery died.
That wouldn't happen with a fuel related issue.
And I agree... some trained skills are required.

Thanks All for such a quick response ...... :)

So It's not the flooding issue ..... then it might be the alternator issue (since the battery is died and the head light was flicker). I will check by jumping up the battery and then let it run by its own and if it stops then wala the alternator issue then, I also will see the rubber it might lose or wear out! and I will let you guys know !!!

Thanks again !

Hey Guys,

It's my stupid mistake, It's not flooding! It's a loose connection (positive connector) btw battery and the alternator. I tightened it up as much as I can, I'll let the mechanic to check it tomorrow if it needs more tightening then. Many Many Thanks for all advises !!!

when i enterd the car one morning, my big boots touched the gas a couple of times... flooded the engine, when when it turned ON after a couple of tries .. the CEL came on ...
kept driving it for a day like that.. the CEL went back to Normal..
Nothing to get worked up about.. some driving time fixes it..

:]

Hi All,
I parked my '04 8 on low fuel/oil and went out of town for a few days. Came back, put fluids in and can't get it to start. The battery is fully charged. My ignition coil pack is less than a yr old, as is my oil metering pump, radiator and a few other misc parts. I tried push starting and that was a no go. Any ideas?

Added fluids? Was is NOS? :)

Seriously though, what fluids did you add?

Hey Guys,

Just wanna give an updated on my car. I got the battery connection fixed ( the mechanic replaced new caps on both end of the battery and tested the battery is working fine).

However I experienced another problem, when the rpm is very low (i.e. <1,000) while driving (hit the break, slowing car down) or simply just stalling the car with no speed (so low rpm), then Engine becomes unsmooth, vibrate, and rpm is flickering like losing power and almost shut down the Engine, Any Clue to check what might go wrong? fuel pump,fuel pump fuse? the Engine operate normally if i hit the accelerator paddle (yields high rpm like 5000-6000 rpm, but there is a lound noise coming out from the exhaust pipe, I REALLY HOPE THAT IT's NOT the ENGINE problem, since it's 113k ('04 AT Model), Pls help !!!!!!!! :(

Thanks!!!!

Guys, Any clue ? Pls !!! :(

i have the same prob with my 05 AT...it happens to me if i drive the card hard and come to slwo moving traffic or to a complete stop, it happens more if i go ro put gas in the car. It will take awhile to start back up...from what i've got many people say start with coils, spark plugs and new plug wire. im not too sure cause i havent chech mine as yet.

Hey Guys,

Just wanna give an updated on my car. I got the battery connection fixed ( the mechanic replaced new caps on both end of the battery and tested the battery is working fine).

However I experienced another problem, when the rpm is very low (i.e. <1,000) while driving (hit the break, slowing car down) or simply just stalling the car with no speed (so low rpm), then Engine becomes unsmooth, vibrate, and rpm is flickering like losing power and almost shut down the Engine, Any Clue to check what might go wrong? fuel pump,fuel pump fuse? the Engine operate normally if i hit the accelerator paddle (yields high rpm like 5000-6000 rpm, but there is a lound noise coming out from the exhaust pipe, I REALLY HOPE THAT IT's NOT the ENGINE problem, since it's 113k ('04 AT Model), Pls help !!!!!!!! :(

Thanks!!!!

What do you mean "loud noise coming from the exhaust"? Try to describe it.

As for your other issues, check the following. Coils, Spark Plugs, Spark Plug Wires. After those three are checked/replaced I will dive deeper into this.

Hi All,
I parked my '04 8 on low fuel/oil and went out of town for a few days. Came back, put fluids in and can't get it to start. The battery is fully charged. My ignition coil pack is less than a yr old, as is my oil metering pump, radiator and a few other misc parts. I tried push starting and that was a no go. Any ideas?

Hey when you tried to push start your car what happened exactly, I feel this is my last alternative to the dealership at the moment mainly due to time. My 8 won't start for beans!

All was good then I parked it for a week came back and it won't start.

Hey Guys,

Just wanna give an updated on my car. I got the battery connection fixed ( the mechanic replaced new caps on both end of the battery and tested the battery is working fine).

However I experienced another problem, when the rpm is very low (i.e. <1,000) while driving (hit the break, slowing car down) or simply just stalling the car with no speed (so low rpm), then Engine becomes unsmooth, vibrate, and rpm is flickering like losing power and almost shut down the Engine, Any Clue to check what might go wrong? fuel pump,fuel pump fuse? the Engine operate normally if i hit the accelerator paddle (yields high rpm like 5000-6000 rpm, but there is a lound noise coming out from the exhaust pipe, I REALLY HOPE THAT IT's NOT the ENGINE problem, since it's 113k ('04 AT Model), Pls help !!!!!!!! :(

Thanks!!!!

i just had a similar problem with my 04 MT, check your sparks, it sounds like they all aren't firing correctly, one might have fouled, if u pull one and it looks all black with sludge or such in it replace em, that prolly will do the trick, if you changed them recently make sure your Leading and Trailing all match up, Leading wires to leading sparks in the leading hole and the same for trailing

To jmc23200 ==> the loud noise sound like "boop" once only and then just some small noise "cat cat"

Alright, Thanks Guys!! I'll see the local mechanic tomorrow and let them look for coils, spark plugs, spark plug wires as you all mentioned and keep you update!! Many thxs!

It could be a clogged cat dude. A clogged cat can cause a lack of power and possibly excess back pressure causing the engine to have extremely rough idle or even stall (I may have made that up). I would have your local place, or you for that matter, take the cat off and put a straight pipe on(aka test pipe). It will be really loud, but is a good test. If the problem goes away, you know its your cat. This can be done in like 20-30 minutes too.

my rx8 always sounds like its chocking when i crank mostly when its cold out i flooded it three times already first time was a mistke second time was because i was in a rush an third was when i stalled after some punk almost macked up my rx8 as i was leaving my house that was bad because it happend not too long after the second time but is there any recall or something to fix this. after the second time my car never starts the same and when i start it up the entire neighborhood smells like gas

Stronger CCA battery, upgraded starter, don't turn off engine cold, rev engine to 3k rpm for 10 seconds and turn off.

thanks i always rev it before shutting it off but ur right about the battery i never thought about that because i know i got a new one recently but its not working out.....about the starter what should i be looking for?

i just read an old article on how many people are getting thier engines replaced for free because of this problem >>>>>do i qualify for this recall ??? i got 82K on my engine but i feel like it does not perform like it should it shakes like crazy when it idles and the rpms jump up and down when this happens would a battery fix this i just got a full tune up and it does run better but i feel like theres still something wrong idk but im sure somone here knows a thing or two on what i should do in order to fix all of these problems

There is an 8 year/100,000 mile warranty. If you have low compression, you can get a re-manufactured engine. You will need to get a compression test which will cost you $200 unless you need a new engine.

My suggestion is to do a FULL tune-up first. New coils, spark plugs, wires, battery(if you think its necessary), and last but not least, seafoam the engine. These are all things the dealer will want to do BEFORE replacing the engine and they will charge you over $1000 to do it all. It will cost you under $400 to do it yourself. There are great DIY threads for all of these procedures. So easy, a caveman can do it.

nice but i dident get my car from a dealership would i still be able to get a new engine if i fail the compression test

Yes, just make sure your car is stock or very close to it. Oh, and start digging up service records if you can find them.

so i got the full tune up alignment, spark plugs, wires, filters, oil change, still have same battery and starter and i got the coils replaced a long time ago, still my car is acting weird it definatly runs better but it still has the starting issue and my engine almost flooded today,,,,,last time i towed it to the shop they said there was gas everywhere,,,,,in the oil, air filter, secondary intake or something like that...... what do i do next what is seafoam and what is the cost for this but so far the car has the same problem any suggestions????

Coils replaced a long time ago? What is a long time ago? Who told you there was gas all over the place? Did they tell you that you had a blown or cracked head gasket because you had froth on your dipstick?

yea my dipstick looked like it had slushie on it but they said the car was running in great condition after i got all that done to it but like i said something is weird about it still and the coils were replaced about 4000 miles ago

Hey Guys,

Just wanna give an updated on my car.

1. The local mechanics replaced all four spark plugs ($350), car def runs smoother but they said there are still some misfire steps in the rotary engine at low rpm and they have no clues on that, and suggest me to follow up w/ the mazda dealer near ithaca :(

2. I called the mazda dealer and schedule an inspection on this coming Monday, the mechanic (who did my heater core replacement at the dealer a month ago) said it might be a transformer problem on the spark to cause that problem, and it should not be things inside the rotary engine to cause that, I really hope it will go that WAY!!!

3. I am really exhausted with that I had a car for about 8 months and no problem so far until the Dec about replacing the heater core, I am desperately missing my '02 9-5 saab (had it for 3 years and no problem at all), The constant worry about the maintenance issues just drains my energy so much since i'm a grad stu who have to deal with my own works are more than enough. It is very very fun to drive this cat !!! but I might have to sell it.

Thanks Guys !!!!

Wow, $350 for $80 spark plugs and 15 minutes. Sorry dude. You might want to replace your coils and wires to see if that fixes your issues. It would only cost about $200 to do and if you buy them from Mazda, you can return them if it doesnt fix the issue. Most problems in an 8 are caused by poor maint including but not limited to coils, plugs, wires, and oil changes.

Hey jmc23200,

1. I think you might right to the point! I just drove the cat to gym a while ago. Now no more almost lose power stuff at the stop sign, the needle rpm is stable slightly less than 1000 rpm, just a lit flicker above that but much much smoother.

2. The mechanic claimed the coils are in good shape but I doubted they checked them! Since I called the mazda dealer, the mechanic guy who did the heater core replacement for me told me, it might me the transformer issues on then spark plugs (Aren't these coils?) And I just noticed that the driver reader light is flicker in the same way as the engine vibrate when I just park the car (car isn't moving) so I might suspect about the COILS? Am I right ? :_)

Thanks!!

thats exactly what is wrong with my car reader light and everything but i just recently got my coils changed how do we solve this problem?? heeeellllpppppp

If your cars lights are "flickering" when the idle drops, it seems like a power issue. Yoou might have a weak battery or a weak alternator. Go down to your local Auto Zone and have them test these for you.

Coils will always be "ok" until they do not work. Replacing them is never a bad thing and cannot hurt.

somone told me to seafoam my engine what is that exactly

Search, there's a diy.

Actually, looking back at your first post, are you sure they said there was gas everywhere and not oil? Oil could be in the intake, on the air filter, on the MAF, in the upper intake manifold, and on your SSV Valve.

You should try cleaning your MAF first as oil on the MAF can cause all kinds of issues. Not sure if a stuck SSV valve can cause similar issues or not.

well they said it was gas thats was in exactly all those spots but they said they cleaned it and everything is working fine but i dont feel like that is accurate idk i have reason to believe its the clutch somehow because it has not been replaced and its at 84k and the previous owner was a bad driver so idk any chance that could be associated with the loss of power

No.

Are the 2009/2010 facelifted 8s less prone to flooding and more reliable in general? Thanks!

Suppose to be. We won't know until we get a few owners of them to hit 60K+ miles.

Update on my car after an hour trip to the dealership (Matthew Mazda at Vestal NY)

1. They can not provide the compression test for my car since they don't have the machine that can test the rotary engine (the old machine broke down when they moved from Corey NY to Vestal NY and they said it will cost them $28K for the machine so they don't have one at the moment )

2. So I explained to the mechanic what's going on w/ my car and then he did some tests and concluded as follow
- the engine mount is no longer in good shape (both of them) that's why I get the vibration/shudder
- he doesn't think I got any rough idle problems, and also no know issues with engine light on, I asked him about IG Coils and Wires, He said they are ok, no need to change, I don't think he looked at them at all since he said that I never changed them on any RX8 that come to service here so far.

3. I already ordered the new IG Coils, Wires, Engine Mounts (FE01-39-040 and FE01-39-050). Will let the local mechanics to change them, I will supply them the parts. I should do it by myself, let see if there is no more snow, I'll try it!!! otherwise i will ask them to do it, BUT We have to careful Tell them Don't mess up the Wires and Don't over tighten the mounts.

Thanks Guys!!!! I am really really appreciated your guys' help !

For normal distance driving, do you still need to let the car sit idle for 5 mins to warm up the engine a bit before driving off?

how much were the mounts i think you just solved my problem dorayee

For normal distance driving, do you still need to let the car sit idle for 5 mins to warm up the engine a bit before driving off?

Never really had to...
Just don't run the engine hard until its warmed-up.
I usually shift no higher than 5K RPM until its warm.

thanks jon this stop to this thread has been quite helpful

Hey

I ordered them online for parts @ URL: http://www.finishlineperformance.com/

FE01-39-050 Engine Mount - RX-8
Options:
Side: Driver
Transmission: Automatic
$84.95 1 $84.95
FE01-39-040 Engine Mount - RX-8
Options:
Side: Passenger
Transmission: Automatic
$124.95 1 $124.95

In total, about ~$100 cheaper than the dealer quoted to me !

Is engine flooding a fact of life of 8 ownership or it's always the result of an owner's negligence?

Is engine flooding a fact of life of 8 ownership or it's always the result of an owner's negligence?

I would now say its owner's negligence.
With a good battery, upgraded start, keep up with maintenance (like spark plugs and coils), and make sure the car is warmed before shutting back off.
Do those and you should be good.

Search, there's a diy.

Actually, looking back at your first post, are you sure they said there was gas everywhere and not oil? Oil could be in the intake, on the air filter, on the MAF, in the upper intake manifold, and on your SSV Valve.

You should try cleaning your MAF first as oil on the MAF can cause all kinds of issues. Not sure if a stuck SSV valve can cause similar issues or not.

now that i think bout it the first time i flooded my car all i did to fix it was remove the fuel pump filter and crank then replace fuse and it started right up but all these problems were present shortly after i purchased the car at 72k and way before my first flooding about 5k later on ...mayb there has been oil oil on my maf or ssv valve because i know there is nothing wrong with the air and fuel filter because i got that all replaced that last time i flooded,,,,,im getting a new intake so i will see if that fixes anything

I would now say its owner's negligence.
With a good battery, upgraded start, keep up with maintenance (like spark plugs and coils), and make sure the car is warmed before shutting back off.
Do those and you should be good.

i got all new wires plugs air and fuel filters coils battery could be the problem because my map light flickers sometimes and upgraded starter??? i saw the price about 350 way too much anything cheaper,on sale??

What year is your car.
Only the '04 and '05 needed the upgraded starter.
Watch the buy/sell section of this forum for anything cheaper.

04 i also i think this car was drivin on the beach because when i quickly changed the battery the first time there was sand everywhere so idk mayb sand is on something ??? so im gonna check those starters out thanks

SWEET! FLOODING NO LONGER A WORRY! Love my 231 RX-8 but didnt love my dad so much when I visited his and he had to move it off the drive to get his car out. Start - stop - start = flooded engine.

Little did he know what he had done, but it had never happened to me before and I was confident it wouldnt! However, just as the battery is dieing on me after several attempts to restart, I ring my Mazda dealer (for the first time ever for help) who conveniently live just down the road. I stressed how close i was to them but they wanted me to tow it too them quoting £240 to fix!! (clean of rotars, new spark plugs etc) at that I replied is there really NOTHING else I can do?

HERE IT COMES:

He went off the phone for abit and came back on to say...Mazda doesnt recommend it, but there is another way to get your RX8 started. Tow it at 30mph, and put in to 4th gear, after 15 secs or so it should fire up with quote 'no damage caused whatsoever'.

At that I thanked him, and he said again Mazda doesnt recommend this though, to that i said, is it because its free? He said - yes. What a legend.

So my dad and I head out with a solid tow bar and the beast fires up just like he said it would. One of the best drives home Ive ever had follwed!!

Hope this helps some of you! Im not freaking out about it happening to me again anymore!

I bought my RX-8 in Dec. 2003 and heard of a few other owners that experienced flooding. It hadn't happened to me so I thought they were just having bad luck. Then I got to see it first hand. The dealer replaced the plugs and performed some other computer adjustment. After about eight months it happened again. Back to the dealer and adjusted to a higher CCA battery. It happened a third time in early 2006 and then not again until this month (1/2010). I had done nothing unusual except the car had not been drivene garage for about 3 weeks and the weather had been quite cold. The dealership told me that "Mazda said" that it was because I didn't know how to drive the car. I'm no Parnelli Jones but I have been driving for over fifty years including several sports cars and never had to be so particular about a routine task like starting the car. So far I've had no success in recovering from a flooded engine on my own. I appreciated the success story of Jaycee (I think) so I have something to try next time. And I do believe there will be a next time. Any more people who have recovered on their own?

yea push start you take the fuel pump fuse out crank for about 30-40 sec put fuse back in try and see if you car will start ....it should if not and your smart to get manual push start down a hill after cranking with no fuel pump fuse and either get that thing started or towed to the dealer it worked for me

I bought my RX-8 in Dec. 2003 and heard of a few other owners that experienced flooding. It hadn't happened to me so I thought they were just having bad luck. Then I got to see it first hand. The dealer replaced the plugs and performed some other computer adjustment. After about eight months it happened again. Back to the dealer and adjusted to a higher CCA battery. It happened a third time in early 2006 and then not again until this month (1/2010). I had done nothing unusual except the car had not been drivene garage for about 3 weeks and the weather had been quite cold. The dealership told me that "Mazda said" that it was because I didn't know how to drive the car. I'm no Parnelli Jones but I have been driving for over fifty years including several sports cars and never had to be so particular about a routine task like starting the car. So far I've had no success in recovering from a flooded engine on my own. I appreciated the success story of Jaycee (I think) so I have something to try next time. And I do believe there will be a next time. Any more people who have recovered on their own?
Regarding driving the car, it needs to be pushed a bit. I suggest any run needs to have the engine up to at least 6,000 RPM at some stage. I know some drivers who never use 5th or 6th gear, except on expressways. I don't agree with this, as it's costs too much in fuel. I always give it a good rev in 2nd gear before getting to my destination to clean things out.

Never drive in too low a gear. If the engine is struggling at all, change down.

I bought my RX-8 in Dec. 2003 and heard of a few other owners that experienced flooding. It hadn't happened to me so I thought they were just having bad luck. Then I got to see it first hand. The dealer replaced the plugs and performed some other computer adjustment. After about eight months it happened again. Back to the dealer and adjusted to a higher CCA battery. It happened a third time in early 2006 and then not again until this month (1/2010). I had done nothing unusual except the car had not been drivene garage for about 3 weeks and the weather had been quite cold. The dealership told me that "Mazda said" that it was because I didn't know how to drive the car. I'm no Parnelli Jones but I have been driving for over fifty years including several sports cars and never had to be so particular about a routine task like starting the car. So far I've had no success in recovering from a flooded engine on my own. I appreciated the success story of Jaycee (I think) so I have something to try next time. And I do believe there will be a next time. Any more people who have recovered on their own?
Ok, so just had my second flooding situation this morning. The first occurred many months ago and I fortunatley was able to get the car towed by Mazda to the dealership and revived, and they added new plugs (even though I just repaced them myself a couple of weeks prior to this) all free of charge under warranty. Is was a huge pain in the butt though not having a car even for one day. I followed the instructions of the mechanic to bring the RPMs above 4k for a few seconds prior to shut down when starting the car for short periods of time (especially when cold); this advice has worked great with no flooding problems until this morning.

Not wanting to go through the same towing/dealership scenario this morning, I was bound and determined to get it deflooded myself. Here is how I did it without moving the car:

I initally tried the self-deflooding steps found in the manual a few of times with no luck of course, however on the third try the engine did cough to life only to slump back into the flood a second later. I noticed that the battery was draining and that I would only be able to try one or twice more. So, I hooked up some jumper cables to my SUV thereby giving me unlimited power supply to the 8 while I tried the deflooding procedure over and over again. Well, it worked; after the 6th time I believe, it came to life with extra battery support.

Wanklehead - Interesting. I believe that the problem is basically a loss of compression due to iol dissolved from the seals. If it happens to me again, I'll immediately connect jumpers so I have plenty of grunt to turn it over. It might just make all the difference.

Hey Guys,

Update on my baby :( problem still persists

Yesterday I did go to the local mechanic shop to let them replaced Engine Mounts (2 of them), they also replaced IG coils, IG wires (they previously did replace the plug sparks, 3 weeks ago).

However !!!! Last night, before I went to the gym, I started the car and the Engine sing was blinking and rough idle in the low rpm btw 1000 -750 rpm I thought that it needs IG coils and wires stuffs so I didn't worry about it too much, the car warm up and I drove to the gym then I drove back (of course the engine sign was on), then when I was approaching the parking lot at my apt, I hit the break paddle and the rpm went down and the car liked losing power and the rpm keep going down under 500 rpm then the engine just shut down!! and I try to start the car again but I could not then I tried 3-4 more times, still not, then I wait in my car for about 10 mins and start then I could but the idle was rough in btw 1000 rpm to 750 rpm, so Any Clues ???????

So I think positive that it was those things, since I will replace them this morning anyway.

Then the mechanics told me this morning that it was the misfire code (Hurrr again !!!!) and they have no clue, Then After that they changed IG coils, wires, mounts. Then I drove home and then happen again ENGINE shut down!!!! and wait 10 mins to start it up.

When I started up the first time after the mechanic shop the idel was very rough it kept flicker up down 1500 rpm and 1000 rpm and the Engine had a noise but i couldn't catch what it was.

Any Clues ???????? Thanks!!!!!

So headache !!! Going to take tylenol and sleep now

I've had my 2004 8 for the past 2 years. From the day I test drove it I had trouble starting it. It was always hit and miss on how long it would take before the engine would kick in. If I drove it at a moderate speed for 9 miles, parked up and went into a store, it never started when I came out. I changed the plugs 5 times since I got the car, coils once, leads once and battery twice. These never made any difference at all.

Just this weekend I did what I should have done 2 years ago. I upgraded the starter motor. I cannot believe how brilliantly it starts now. One turn of the key and the engine kicks in in less than 2 seconds EVERY time! I've even driven it really hard, turned it off and straight on again and it kicks into life straight away. Haven't had any flooding or starting problems since and it sounds 1000 times better. No horrible, slow, weak cranking, just a sound that is VERY similar to that of the Lambo Gallarado crank.

The upgraded starter is the way to go :)

Dorayee, did they clear your CEL after they replaced the parts???

I upgraded the starter motor. I cannot believe how brilliantly it starts now.

For everyone with a 2004 or early 2005 model, check your vehicle's maintenance history to make sure you have:

- upgraded battery
- upgraded starter
- upgraded plugs
- latest PCM flash

The first three changes werer phased into production over time. IIRC, RX-8s with an April 2005 build date or later have the updated battery/starter/plugs.

ive done some searching and an upgraded starter is about $300 anyone know where to get one cheaper and anyone have any suggestions on a good battery for the rx8??

$300 is about right, just buy it. I use the yellow top optima and it works fine in the Boston area. You just need a battery with a HIGH CCA. Yellow is 650 I believe.

ive done some searching and an upgraded starter is about $300 anyone know where to get one cheaper

Another option here (http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getJointLocator&siteid=214264&chapter=APH685&sectionids=5,&make=22&model=RX-8&year=2004&catalogid=1&displayCatalogid=0).

Looks like reman starters and not new.

You wanted a cheaper option. You can call to confirm that it's a reman of an upgraded starter (not an original 2004 unit).

thanks for the link whats the price look like for the yellow top i got 150??

You wanted a cheaper option. You can call to confirm that it's a reman of an upgraded starter (not an original 2004 unit).

Yeah, but $264 for a reman vs $300 new? Just go for the new one.

Hey kingaaron,

They did clear the CEL and he said it's the misfire code, and he didn't how since I replaced the spark plugs 3 weeks ago, IG coils and Wires last Friday.

RIWWP suggested that it might be the CAT so I schedule the new mechanic to check it for me this Thursday so will see, I already bought the used one in case. My previous mechanic insisted to pull out the CAT to check, he said no code for it. But on that Friday after he replaced the IG coils, Wires, Engine mounts, My car still got the rough idle (no engine sign or blink yet) but the car did die (stall and shut down) after I drove up hill for like 15mins and 10-15 mins later It did start again. Any clue kingaaron? Happen to you too?

Also Before last Friday (2 weeks ago), I did went to the mazda dealer to check, though the misfire code was cleared by that mechanics, he replaced the spark plugs for me 3 weeks ago, so Mazda dealer run some tests and find nothing wrong with the car except he said you need the engine mounts that's what you got the engine vibration from.

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=189644

Hey,

As I went to see a new friendly mechanic this morning, and found the source of the problem (this guy used to work w/ RX7 before at NJ area, now he moved to Central NY).

The problem is not the CAT clogged/failing but it's a vacuum leak !! he used a spray bottle to trace it and he said the most likely would be in the nozzle intake before to the Rotor engine, whenever he spray in that area the idle of the car changing so he would say i would need a ring gasket in that .... Anyone experience like this ???? and What part I am looking to replace/order ???

PS: Engine CEL Code, P2096 --- CAT runs lean ---> vacuum leak
P3000, P3001 , misfire random misfire, rotor #1 misfire

He said you got the low rough idle and stall engine at the stop sign/when you hit the break to slow the car........ ====> All these are from your VACUMM LEAK !!!!!

Thanks Guys!! Let me know what part i am looking to replace, def some people on this board would go to the same experiences as I did.

IDK if a vaccuum leak can cause misfired ........ anyone know for sure?

The upgraded starter is the way to go :)

Where can I get an "upgraded" starter?

Where can I get an "upgraded" starter?

http://www.mazdarotaryparts.com/bfe-ig07-new-mrp-hi-torque-faster-starter-motorb-1469-p.asp

That's your best bet as it's a helluva lot cheaper than the Mazda OEM one if you want to buy new.

Had a big flooding problem. Wouldn't start, dealership did two days of work to get it going, I was thinking "new motor." It runs ok now but I'm still concerned.
Apparently I was driving it too conservatively, "wind it out in all gears" was what I heard from several sources.
Mazda doesn't tell ya that stuff when you're shopping.

Ok, there are a hundred threads about this, so next time search before posting.

I am feeling generous so here we go. Do not exceed 3-4k rpm before the engine fuly warms up(takes about 5-12 minutes depending on weather). Once fully warmed up, you will need to bring the RPM up to AT LEAST 6K in gear every other day. Personally, I red line every time I drive the car. It is too tempting not to. A red line a day keeps the carbon away. Since I am at it, you might as well start premixing as well. You can search for that one though.

P.S. Never shut her off cold. You will flood it and from the sounds of it, you will be bringing it to mazda.