I know these have been mentioned before, but I needed some advice from some of you other '8 drivers. I have 13,000 miles on my RX8. It broke down at 11,960 for the first time. They had it for 40 days and REPAIRED the transmission. I drove it for 8 days, then it went back because it wasn't right. They then REPLACED the transmission and clutch. 5 days later (after already scheduling an appointment becuase it didn't feel right) my Clutch goes out. Mazda called yesterday and said "it absolutely exploded" and they aren't going to cover it. They said I abused it. I babied that car and know for a fact that didn't happen. The clutch appears to have got too hot, possibly from the tranny. The springs on the plate BROKE... How is that possible. I have pics I can email if anyone cares to give an opinion

They had the tranny off TWICE and didn't see a cracked disc?

Smells like the south end of a northbound bull.

call Mazda Corp. and complain.

I have called Mazda Corp, and they say it's over their head. They had the tranny apart twice, but they replaced the disc the last time, so it was brand new.

i have a 1400 mile on my tranny and i need to take it in. what did it sound like when u noticed some probs.

Hmm... I can post pictures, but a WAV file?... just kidding. It really wasn't making noises the first time. It had the normal rattle at idle until the clutch was pressed in. After the first repair it was whining going into 4th gear and much more difficult to get into 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and reverse. After the second repair it was doing the exact same thing. Then, while going about 40 miles an hour, I was shifting into 4th and it made a grinding sound, went into gear, then the cluch just felt funny

I'm amazed they had it rebuilt the first time..

If the repair was less than 12/12 ago it is a parts warranty issue.

If they really put a new disc in at that time.

Actually, that was a mistype. The first repair was at 11,960, not 12,960. They didn't put a new disc in that time. They put the new disc in the second time at almost 13,000. Then it went out. I wish I knew I mechanic that could look at this thing and tell me how my clutch got so it that it turned blue!

Asking for a little honesty here.

Is this your first manual tranny?

Well when they are brand new they are blue! I have one setting in front of me that I never put in my car because I knew these disc were fucking JUNK! I used a 3rd gen rx7 disc from mcleod rev lok sereis. I had the same problem as you when shifting. The clutch did not explode per say it broke off where it is riveted together. They are just shit IMO the whole drive line is shitty. Makes owning this car a living hell. Mazda fucked up and went too cheap on parts. Oh well they got my 32000 dollars. :(

Yes, my rivets came loose, but didn't completely break. I was not aware of the color of these discs. What would cause the springs to break? I have no idea what happened or what they are trying to say happened. As far as this being my first manual, no, I have owned 6 others.

So First- Tranny Repaired
Second-tranny And Clutch Replaced
Third- New Clutch Broke

Days Between Picking It Up After First Repair Until New Clutch Broke Is 8+5= 13 Days. Correct? 1k Miles In 13 Days, Correct? What Area Of The Country Do You Live In?

just another thought...Lemon? The lemon law is something like 3x for same repair, etc, etc. Could that be a possible route?

23k miles of abusive fun. No problems...

Zoom, yes, that is the situation. The car broke down the first time while I was on vacation In Arkansas. It was about a 500 mile trip by the time I got the car and got back home. I have been trying not to file Lemon Law, but I don't have much of a choice now since Mazda refuses to repair.

Ok Look There Is No Need Of Lemon Law Here But You Need To Get On Them About This. Do They Not Have At Least Some Guarantee Against Faulty Workmanship? I Mean Come One We're Talking About 13 Days Since They Returned Your Rebuilt Tranny Until The Time The Brand New Clutch Destroyed Itself. To Me It Makes Alot More Sense That They Did Something Wrong On The Install Than You Abusing It For 5 Days(time Spent With New Clutch). Which Tech Did The Work The First 2 Times? How Much Experience Does He/she Have? Is He/she A Master Tech? Did A Master Tech Over See The Work? You Need To Take This Up Past Dealership Level To The Regional Rep And If He Doesnt Help You Talk To His Boss Etc. Imho, There Is Something More Wrong That They Either Didn't Catch Or They Caused.

i would think every clutch on the market would have at least a 30 day warenty from teh manufacturer. who made those parts for Mazda?

Mazda parts have 12/12.

Labor is included if installed at a dealer.

That is exactly what I thought. But I can't get a response from the Service Manager, Customer assistance tells me it's over their head, and I don't have a car. I have to find a way to get my car from the dealership also. I have no choice but to proceed with a lawyer and the Lemon Law. Believe me, I tried everything possible, but after being without my car for over 60 days since 8/9/04 and them refusing to repair it I have to do something.

http://www.lemonlawamerica.com/

Thanks again...

If they dont have a mechanics lean on the car get that thing towed out of there asap!

Here is my latest Response from Mazda Service Manager:
Mr Moore, After sending the pictures to the Mazda Technical Division, they have declined any assistance due to Abuse. According to the Tech Specialist in Houston and the Techs at Tech line saw the pics, they were convinced that they were right. This had to have been abuse. Where to go from here, I am not sure. I know you have already contacted Mazda Customer Assistance. I have talked to my District Rep and she has agreed with the Tech Line People. So it looks like Mazda is out on Assistance. Sorry, Terry Burden, Service Manager, Town North Mazda

Mr Moore, After sending the pictures to the Mazda Technical Division, they have declined any assistance due to Abuse. According to the Tech Specialist in Houston and the Techs at Tech line saw the pics, they were convinced that they were right. This had to have been abuse. Where to go from here, I am not sure. I know you have already contacted Mazda Customer Assistance. I have talked to my District Rep and she has agreed with the Tech Line People. So it looks like Mazda is out on Assistance. Sorry, Terry Burden, Service Manager, Town North Mazda
Whoa, you're here in dallas?
Who worked on your car at Town North?
I don't know how you can blow up a clutch in such a short amount of time/mileage.
There are people on this forum doing 7k+ RPM clutch drops and not having this problem, so what constitutes clutch abuse?

That is what I am wanting to know. Ajax, we've met. I was "The guy with no Handle." It was on the second meeting. I was in the Base Model red '8. Anyway, I have been working with Michael Rhea, who seems to be helpful. However, the service manager isn't. Any suggestions?

That is what I am wanting to know. Ajax, we've met. I was "The guy with no Handle." It was on the second meeting. I was in the Base Model red '8. Anyway, I have been working with Michael Rhea, who seems to be helpful. However, the service manager isn't. Any suggestions?
Ahh understandable.
Do you know who worked on your car as in which technician?

Yes, the great Don Marvel... I think that is right. Everyone says he is good.

Don is very good. He's a master technician w/26 years of experience. This just doesnt sound right. Have you seen the pictures or had a first hand look at what they pulled out of your car.

Don is very good. He's a master technician w/26 years of experience. This just doesnt sound right. Have you seen the pictures or had a first hand look at what they pulled out of your car.


Good point...I'd like to see those pics also..

Ok, for those of you who are interested in the pictues... I have created a quick album on Tripod: http://slims8tx.tripod.com/clutch/

These pics were taken by the dealership that has my car now.

If "dropping the clutch" at 7200 rpm as one of the magazines did to get their 0 - 60 times didn't "abuse" the clutch I don't see how you could in such a short period of time. It would be interesting to see what a testing lab could determine by checking out those springs for failure.

I have heard very good compliments on Don. I haven't personally met him. I just can't figure out what happened here. I drove this car very carefully since the first incident. I would appreciate any opinions.

SLIMS DO YOU HAVE A SCANNER? if not can you give me exact dates and mileage from your services and what exactly was done from their bills? give me as much detail as possible and email it to me with that link to your pics. use the email link in my profile

I have heard very good compliments on Don. I haven't personally met him. I just can't figure out what happened here. I drove this car very carefully since the first incident. I would appreciate any opinions. Call Don's shop today and leave a message: 972-475-6448
Tell him who you are and what the situation is, that he worked on your car and you really don't feel you abused it and you'd like to understand how it broke so that maybe you could find a resolution to the problem.
From looking at your pictures, there does not appear to be any wear on the clutch surface or the flywheel, just the spring plate (whatever it's called, i'm using the wrong terms) which appears to have come completely apart.

I'm not sure what could've caused this but with almost no wear on the clutch plate itself, i think something is up.

Here's why I really think something is up:
12,960 miles the car breaks down and the transmission is repaired but it's still not right
8 days later the transmission is completely replaced and it's still not right
5 days later it breaks again

What's obvious about this is there is still something wrong with the car beyond the transmission and clutch and whatever that is, even if they replace your clutch, is going to cause the car to break again.

So what was actually wrong with the tranny when you say it wasn't right?

Ajax, after the first repair it was grinding in 2nd, 3rd, and 6th occassionally. Also, it would grind in reverse all the time and had a whine going into 4th. After they replaced the clutch and transmission it was sill whining into 4th gear and grinding in reverse. I would have to let the car roll back to get it into reverse. (FYI, I don' t know if it matters, but I was shifting into 4th when it went out the last time).

Ajax, after the first repair it was grinding in 2nd, 3rd, and 6th occassionally. Also, it would grind in reverse all the time and had a whine going into 4th. After they replaced the clutch and transmission it was sill whining into 4th gear and grinding in reverse. I would have to let the car roll back to get it into reverse. (FYI, I don' t know if it matters, but I was shifting into 4th when it went out the last time).
My car does the same thing with reverse every so often, not all the time. I've had it in at town north before but they couldnt replicate it as it is sporadic.

I'm thinking about what could cause that and then cause the clutch damage and the only thing i can come up with is faulty hydraulics.

If that is the blueing that they are talking about from being overheated I have a brand new disc in my trunk that looks just like that! I want to start a class action law suit! anyone with me. It is very clear that the clutch disc are faulty. My clutch blew up but not as bad as that. You are getting fucked in the rear bad..... Well you can fly me down and I will put in a clutch free of charge if you can get a lift. :p

I appreciate the support and help guys. I guess I will try to get in touch with Don, although everyone else is telling me it's "over their heads". I need to get something going.

Also, send a letter to the president of mazda jim o'sullivan I think. Have a legal type person help you write it up and send it overnite fedex. Tell them you are going to go to suit if they do not react with in 30 days and I bet you get a call from a girl named michelle. Worked for me.

Also, send a letter to the president of mazda jim o'sullivan I think. Have a legal type person help you write it up and send it overnite fedex. Tell them you are going to go to suit if they do not react with in 30 days and I bet you get a call from a girl named michelle. Worked for me.
Interesting. I hope you get this worked out.

BAS, so how hard would it be to drop a different tranny in this car and totally replace the entire driveline? The differential and drive shaft seem to be OK, but the tranny has always been flaky if you ask me.

Ajax, I was wondering the same thing... but the last time I had it in they said they were replacing everything from the flywheel to the drive shaft.

yea, but they didnt replace the master cylinder or anything in that line?

True... they didn't. I see what you're saying. Well, I guess I'm going to tow the car myself tomorrow and take 'er make home. I left a message with Don at his shop so hopefully he'll return my call.

its not like this is the 1st clutch to go boom!! hell there are 2 in the similar threads below.

That is exactly my point, but I can't get in touch with anyone! The people I do talk to say "I understand, but it's over my head". I sent the service manager those 2 links earlier and asked him to take a look at them. I haven't got a response yet. There are many people in those 2 threads that have had their clutches go. I have to be missing something.

True... they didn't. I see what you're saying. Well, I guess I'm going to tow the car myself tomorrow and take 'er make home. I left a message with Don at his shop so hopefully he'll return my call.
Don will return just about every call. He's a very cool guy. I hope he can supply you with some answers.

I am just brain storming here, but try this on for size.....Shift into 4th, let out the clutch and something in the tranny binds...BAD....Now your flywheel and clutch assembly are turning, but the tranny stops (even if its for a fraction of a second). Whats the weakest part of the drivetrain now?? I would say its those springs. The damn thing couldnt help but come apart at that point......
Before anyone asks..No, I am not a mechanic. Just seems like something that COULD have happened, given the fact that the tranny had had problems already.

"When all reasonable explanations have been exhausted, whatever remains, however improbably, MUST be the truth" (my fav quote of all time)

"When all reasonable explanations have been exhausted, whatever remains, however improbably, MUST be the truth" (my fav quote of all time)


exactly! with the tiem frame we're dealing with it almost has to be something like that. sounds like the easy way out is to claim abuse rather than find the underlying problem.

I dont see how it could be much else. I am HARD on a car and I dont think I could intentionally do this to a car. Believe me, I can be creative too! I would buy what Mazda was saying if those pics were of a two year old clutch, but not a week old one. No way, No how.

*side note - a gold star goes to anyone that can post the origins of my quote. haha*

sherlock holmes, dude:)that's an easy one:)

You'd be surprised how many ppl DONT know it is Sherlock, or even who Sir Arthur Conan Dole is...
Back on thread.......I have talked to some of my friends and co workers(two of them are mechanics) , and No One thinks this is an abuse problem. Seems like Mazda is doing some SERIOUS track covering. I wonder how much farther they will go before admitting that this could be their fault.

I appreciate everyone's opinion here. I am scheduled to see a lawyer on Monday, but that still doesn't fix the fact that I don't have a vehicle. I also have a good friend at classic BMW. I am going to take my clutch up there and see if I can get a written "second opinion".

Well, just got back from getting my car... in 100 different pieces. The transmission is out, exhaust is out, center console ripped apart... I think I'm getting ROYALLY screwed here!

Wow! and you had this clutch for 5 days? They returned it in pieces? hmmm, That's rediculous. I believe I'd have a lawyer.

Yeah, things are about to that point. After re-examining the clutch I have noticed what happened. The 4 brads or rivets that hold the center piece of the disc (where the spline is) are broken. It just took the tops of the rivets out. Has anyone else seen this?

Just a thought.....I assume that the car has not been run since the clutch crapped itself ( of course) Wouldnt Mazda be able to go into the ECU and tell Engine RPm etc etc the last time the car was run? I am not sure how big the memory is, or how far back it keeps track, or even what parameters it logs. Just something I thought of.....maybe this is something that can be used to your advantage????????? Y'all correct me if I am wrong.

I'm not even sure what kind of information in keeps. I'm sure if they have the ability to read these parameters, but haven't mentioned them, there is a reason for that. The memory wouldn't have to go back very far... I only had it for 5 days. I appreciate the suggestion.

Been reading the thread-very upset by way you were treated. Also makes me worry that my car can grenade even though I drive without abusing my car. I think next year I am going to have to consider trading my car for one with a more robust clutch/transmission. I sincerely feel for you fighting Mazda Corp!

Bob :mad:

Bob, you must have an idea of what it's like. When are they going with a more robust Clutch/transmission... and why? Apparently if they are going with more robust driveline there is a reason!

Hate to say it, but if I have problems with my tranny/clutch AND there is no turbo by this time next year I am going to trade in on a '06 Cobra Mustang. I know, I know.....so PLEASE no "Mustangs Suck" crap ok. Mazda just seems to be suckin hind tit when it comes to keeping up with the 8. AND there seems to be a problem with them even wanting to try to do that. I love this car, more than any I have every had, but REAL horsepower and reliable drivetrain can make up for quite a few creature comforts lost.

I definitely agree. I love my car, but there was a point at about the 40th day without my car since 8/9/04 that I really just wanted a Corrolla or a Cavalier if it would get me to and from work. Now it has been over 60... Maybe I'm just getting a bad experience...

Well, sorry you have had such bad luck buddy. Fortunately the only problems I have had are a few rattles. So is your car just sitting at your house? What are you going to do? Don't let up until you're satisfied.

Bob, you must have an idea of what it's like. When are they going with a more robust Clutch/transmission... and why? Apparently if they are going with more robust driveline there is a reason!
Slim-when I said that I would consider trading for more robust drivetrain I was referring to another car other than the 8 as much as that would pain me. I really do not know if Mazda is beefing up the 8's drivetrain.

Bob

Oh... misunderstanding. I have already decided as soon as I get it fixed or whatever I am trading it in. Too bad there isn't another car that I would compare to this one... I guess I'll get a truck.

Any word? Are you still without a car?

What I don't understand is why the dealer won't cover the clutch as a parts warranty..

5 days of ANY kind of driving shouldn't result it this kind of damage..

IMHO

QM- No, no response. Still just waiting.
Snap-On - I have no idea. According to them, they sent pictures (the same ones I have posted) to the tech line. They then told the Service Manager that it was abuse and not to cover it under warranty. I don't see why they couldn't cover it under a Parts Waranty either...

But why did they send the Pics?

They could have done it, once they had your invoice from Arkansas..

They were the ones that replaced the transmission and the clutch the previous time. It doesn't make any sense! The won't even talk to me. The Customer Assistance Line says "I'm sorry, we can't help you anymore" or "I'm sorry, this is over our heads" or "You will have to wait until the Rep contacts you". The Dealership says "It's over our heads. We just sent the pictures in and they said don't cover it." Nobody's listening...

Look I am not trying to be a dick here but. Get LEGAL help! Car manufactures never win in court. Present this in a fashion of "this could have injured me or my family" this sort of thing really get's the attention it deserves.

I agree... They can't win this... It might take a while, but this isn't right. You are getting raped here.

I know... I have talked to a lawyer, just to get some advice. I have sent mazda a letter asking them to fix this. All I can do now is wait for a response from them. I'm saving up my cash just in case they don't want to fix it. I wasn't going to go forward with a lawyer, but something about having a car with 13,000 miles on it and no Warranty doesn't sound like a real good idea.

Anybody have any inside connections????

How long was the car in the shop BEFORE you heard it was not going to be covered?

And did you call Mz before they told you?

This is the reason why I was hesitant to get stick .. I know how to drive stick but I dont trust myself now Im glad I got auto

It was in the shop 8 days. I was actually told by the service guy that he ordered a clutch and it was on the way. That was on about day 3 or 4. I had been on the phone with Mazda and they were aware of the situation, then about 2 days later the Service Manager called me and told me the pathetic news.

They were on the phone to stop the repair before you called Mz?

I don't really know what happened. I talked to Mazda and they acted like it was getting fixed, then the Service guy said it was getting fixed, then a couple of days later the Service guy called and said "Sorry".

I work for a large dealer group, you should have your legal counsel file a law suit against the dealership/Mazda today and start the process ASAP... You need to be very aggressive and ask for everything including compensation for all your payments, hassle etc...

I am going to. I have been forced to doing this. I have spoken with a lawyer and written Mazda a letter. He says if they don't start on some kind of action by the end of next week we will be filing a law suit on the dealership and Mazda. I just want my car!!!

Damn just saw this thread. Sorry about your car man. Mine has been at the dealership for 3 weeks now, for faulty transmission (losing gears). Still just waiting for parts and them to do it. I call like every other day. They are being really cool right now but now I will really pay attention when I get it back. This sucks to have spent so much on a car and have all these issues. My car has been at the dealership about 6 times already. It is so irritating not having my car. I am stuck driving this cobra that is so rough, makes you appriciate the 8.

normally a wear item is not covered, but an "exploded" part seems like a defeact...how much is the repair?

i got screwed the same way i posted it a while back they gave me the parts free and the labor i had to pay. the tranny grinded into 2nd gear a lot especially at high rpms they replaced the whole clutch and what not. it doesn't grind anymore only sometimes in reverse but thats due to my stupididty of letting up on pushing the shifter straight down. anyway good luck.

I know these have been mentioned before, but I needed some advice from some of you other '8 drivers. I have 13,000 miles on my RX8. It broke down at 12,960 for the first time. They had it for 40 days and REPAIRED the transmission. I drove it for 8 days, then it went back because it wasn't right. They then REPLACED the transmission and clutch. 5 days later (after already scheduling an appointment becuase it didn't feel right) my Clutch goes out. Mazda called yesterday and said "it absolutely exploded" and they aren't going to cover it. They said I abused it. I babied that car and know for a fact that didn't happen. The clutch appears to have got too hot, possibly from the tranny. The springs on the plate BROKE... How is that possible. I have pics I can email if anyone cares to give an opinion

Here's another way to attack your problem.

What was your rental car?

If they don't put you in a "comprable" car, and your car is in the shop for over 30 days on something they still haven't fixed, your car might be eligible as a lemon.

http://www.dot.state.tx.us/mvd/lemon/lemonlaw.htm

You have over 12,000 miles before your first repair which could be an issue, but if you could get your car to qualify as a lemon - they will fix your car or have to buy it back from you!

Another way of going at it.

-Mr. Wigggles

Ps. the RX-8's speedo reads about 2% high. That means you actually had about 12700 miles on it when it was reading 12960. Now if 12,960 was actually lower you might slip into the 12,000 mile threshold. When was the very first time you mentioned the problem to them?

Here's another way to attack your problem.

What was your rental car?

If they don't put you in a "comprable" car, and your car is in the shop for over 30 days on something they still haven't fixed, your car might be eligible as a lemon.

http://www.dot.state.tx.us/mvd/lemon/lemonlaw.htm

You have over 12,000 miles before your first repair which could be an issue, but if you could get your car to qualify as a lemon - they will fix your car or have to buy it back from you!

Another way of going at it.

-Mr. Wigggles

Ps. the RX-8's speedo reads about 2% high. That means you actually had about 12700 miles on it when it was reading 12960. Now if 12,960 was actually lower you might slip into the 12,000 mile threshold. When was the very first time you mentioned the problem to them?

I have corrected the first post... I only had 11,960 at the first incident. The first 40 days my car was in the shop I was put in a Toyota Corrolla. The next time I was in a Mazda 3, then a Chevy Silverado Extended cab for the week before they decided to "decline coverage". I have filed the papers and am just waiting for some kind of response.

But from what I see the car was in the shop for 51 days?

Come on..thats just not right.

hey.. we have seen this with the Clutch disk before.. do a search and print up all of these threads. you are not the first person to have an 8 's tranny or clutch puke and then the dealership to act as if you drove your Car off raod in Concreat.!!!.. there covering there ass for some faulty clutch parts and i bet the rest of us witht he same build car will have the same issues.. Please post your Build date.

And try to find the other threads about this same Issue .. we need to make Mazda see what's really going on here.

But from what I see the car was in the shop for 51 days?

Come on..thats just not right.

Not to be critical, but the 51 days is not counting the time since the last "break down". My car was in the shop for 9 more days (there's 60) before they declined coverage, and has been parked for 10 days since then. My car has been out of Service 70 days. :mad:

hey.. we have seen this with the Clutch disk before.. do a search and print up all of these threads. you are not the first person to have an 8 's tranny or clutch puke and then the dealership to act as if you drove your Car off raod in Concreat.!!!.. there covering there ass for some faulty clutch parts and i bet the rest of us witht he same build car will have the same issues.. Please post your Build date.

And try to find the other threads about this same Issue .. we need to make Mazda see what's really going on here.

There are far too many of these problems, and Mazda is acting really weird about them. In my case, they just say "sorry, there's nothing we can do". They ALWAYS act like they have never heard of anything like this before. I wonder how long this will go on before they realize they definitely have a problem with some clutches and Transmissions. Look at the thread started yesterday... 2nd gear is now fixed, but no explanation? (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=43597)

What's going on here???

I have corrected the first post... I only had 11,960 at the first incident. The first 40 days my car was in the shop I was put in a Toyota Corrolla. The next time I was in a Mazda 3, then a Chevy Silverado Extended cab for the week before they decided to "decline coverage". I have filed the papers and am just waiting for some kind of response.

Sorry that I didn't read the entire thread.

Please keep my odometer comment in mind. I think two attempts have to occur in the first 12,000 miles. If the first was "11,960" and the second was at say "12,XXX" your car might not qualify. However, because the car's speedometer/odometer reads 2% higher than it should, the first attempt occured at ~11,720 and the second attempt was probably less than 12,000 as well.

Something to keep in mind.

Good luck,

-Mr. Wigggles

Damn you are a newbie..

Leave the shop and the gears grind and you don't bring it back right away.

That's stupid. So you might have been on your way to a vaction. Big deal you knew something was wrong and you continued to drive it.

You need to use some common sense. Your continued driving of a defective install caused you this problem.

NO reason or call for being an ass on here Razz1. Never have understood some ppls need to put others down to make themselves feel smart......

Damn you are a newbie..

Leave the shop and the gears grind and you don't bring it back right away.

That's stupid. So you might have been on your way to a vaction. Big deal you knew something was wrong and you continued to drive it.

You need to use some common sense. Your continued driving of a defective install caused you this problem.

Well... First, the gears weren't grinding on my way TO vacation... The car broke down on vacation. After they "fixed" the car and I drove 375 miles back to Arkansas to pick it up, the gears were just stiff. I didn't notice the grinding until on my way home. So before making yourself look stupid read the thread. :D

I think we should all place a call to Mazda and tell them we are concerned that our trannies/clutches could be defective based upon X number of ocurred incidents and ask them how they deem it to not be covered under warrenty. If there phones lit up enough, they would have to do something.

I agree. I'm not happy with mine either. It seems to want to grind. I'll call first! By the way, raz, back off! Give the guy some slack, he's having a bad enough time.

Well, there is a poll that was started yesterday that is supposed to be logging problems from various people. I definitely think Mazda needs to see the numerous issues. Is there ANY way they don't really know there are this many problems?

Damn you are a newbie..

Leave the shop and the gears grind and you don't bring it back right away.

That's stupid. So you might have been on your way to a vaction. Big deal you knew something was wrong and you continued to drive it.

You need to use some common sense. Your continued driving of a defective install caused you this problem.

Real nice......have you ever heard of the "GOLDEN RULE"? Really, just no call for that.

I'll put in my call this afternoon. After the list of complaints is a sizeable length, maybe email them a copy of that as well.

Real nice......have you ever heard of the "GOLDEN RULE"? Really, just no call for that.

Ok, this is really beside the point now. They replace the transmission and clutch after that. I decided it wasn't right about halfway home... 180 miles back to the dealer, or 180 home and then take it too a dealer.

Anyway, still waiting for a response from Mazda... I wonder how long they will stall?

hmmm, how long has it been now? i think i would be getting in contact with a lawyer. you should probably give them another week, but then I'd be pissed! but i guess thats just me. have you told mazda about all of the problems that have been posted here?

I feel your pain man. My car has been at the dealer for over 3 weeks now. I get a call from them saying my parts were stuck at customs. So finally they get here the other day, and guess what when they open the tranny they find more broken parts, so now I have to wait again for the other parts to get here. I cannot believe they wouldn't have looked to make sure they ordered all the parts in the first place. I FU*KING hate this Mazda service. I am just so irritated by this. Just wanted to rant. Sorry.

I can't believe all the BS you guys are getting! I am looking to trade my RX-8 for M3 January to get more properly sorted drivetrain. Thank God I know sales manager at BMW store and will not take too bad of a bath. I just do not want to wait till something grenades on the 8.

Bob

Well Doc, I hate to say it, but I agree with you. I just want a way out of mine. I really don't feel the car was ready to be released yet. Maybe it will get better, but for now I have been without my car over 80 days since May! A VW Bug is more reliable than that!

To me it seems that mazda dont want to pay for the dealership mistakes. They are definitely not telling you the whole truth. My speculation would be that dealer did not diagnose the problem correctly what caused so many repairs and mazda does not want to cover dealership mistakes. When I was working for Nissan same things were happening occasionally. One guy with his Xterra that was in a shop several times still breaking down finally got a finger from nissan and the dealership. So on saturday he brought his car parked across the street put up a banner saying "I bought that lemon from the dealership accross the street and they refuse to fix it". They bought it back from him same day.

hmmm... Interesting. I guess that is still an option. I think it's worth the tow bill to take it back... and I'm free this weekend! Thanks. Sorry Town North Mazda...

And you know what if I was still in big D I would go with you - unfortunately I moved to big apple. Well anyway it would be nice if you could get support from other members that live locally that would be willing to go and picket with you. Dont give up.

I can't give up... I don't have a running vehicle!

at least get them to use the new MS clutch and Cover for replacement. if they cant get it i can in just a few days.

That would even satisfy me. I just don't feel comfortable with the same clutch and same transmission... something isn't right! If they gave me a MS clutch and would cover their waranty I would feel much better.

Well, no action has been taken yet, so I guess I'll begin to "Winterize" my car. Any special precautions considering my transmission, clutch, driveshaft, and exhaust are removed?

Just thought I would post an update... After being forced to file for Lemon Law I just recieved a letter from Mazda stating that they declined my claim becuase the damage was caused by "an outside influence". What kind of outside influence causes a clutch to "explode" in just 5 days? Just thought I would tell those of you interested in my story where I was.

Just thought I would post an update... After being forced to file for Lemon Law I just recieved a letter from Mazda stating that they declined my claim becuase the damage was caused by "an outside influence". What kind of outside influence causes a clutch to "explode" in just 5 days? Just thought I would tell those of you interested in my story where I was.

DId the letter go into any more detail?
When you wrote to Mazda, did you put together all the work orders done by all dealers and marked the ones related to the claims about bad tranny, gear engagement, etc....?

I would give it a second try, collecting and sending ALL the information you have about the work done on your car since day one. And probably including some print outs from here. Eventhough, the information found on this site may not be acceptable in a court -heck, its the internet- it may help soften up their warranty claim department. Just a thought.

Yeah, I agree. I did include all work orders and my day-to-day log and sent that to them. It didn't really go into more detail. It just said based on my vehicle history the dealership and district rep had declined coverage therefore Mazda must decline the claim and sees that there is no further action required on their behalf.

they told me the same crap about outside influence so i wasn't covered i ended up paying for the labor and not the parts at least.

I am bit nervous after reading this thread... I just picked up my new 2004 RX ---- Are crappy trannys something A LOT of you are dealing with or is it just a few unfortunate people?

I know these have been mentioned before, but I needed some advice from some of you other '8 drivers. I have 13,000 miles on my RX8. It broke down at 11,960 for the first time. They had it for 40 days and REPAIRED the transmission. I drove it for 8 days, then it went back because it wasn't right. They then REPLACED the transmission and clutch. 5 days later (after already scheduling an appointment becuase it didn't feel right) my Clutch goes out. Mazda called yesterday and said "it absolutely exploded" and they aren't going to cover it. They said I abused it. I babied that car and know for a fact that didn't happen. The clutch appears to have got too hot, possibly from the tranny. The springs on the plate BROKE... How is that possible. I have pics I can email if anyone cares to give an opinion

We had the same problem on all our 20 "8"s, during both racing or just only sport use. The problem is in the 4 little double springs of the clutch disk. They become shorter after a few kms. :(

Yeah, I agree. I did include all work orders and my day-to-day log and sent that to them. It didn't really go into more detail. It just said based on my vehicle history the dealership and district rep had declined coverage therefore Mazda must decline the claim and sees that there is no further action required on their behalf.
Slim-sad that Mazda NA and apparently worldwide doesn't care if they do not retain customers. I really enjoy my car but because of problems that you and others are having one feels you have to use the clutch and transmission as if they are made of egg shells. I am trading my car tomorrow for M3 which is much more expensive but feel is built to be driven. I am really sorry for all the grief that Mazda has given you and others.

Bob :mad:

The M3 at this point is much better than the first of the current gen M3's that came out 3-4 years ago. (Reliability of German cars in general isn't all that hot either)

I have had transmission problems on my 8 as well plus most of the other little things that my dealership has happily fix. I would guess that the RX-8 is having the same growing pains that the M3 had; however, with that said, there is no substitute for good statistical reliability analysis for a vehicle from companies like Consumer Reports. You have to factor in the good with the bad and internet sites typically will only list problems. It won't be too long before Consumer Reports has complete data for the RX-8 in its first year.

One thing that I think is being particularly hard on the RX-8 is the relatively heavy flywheel (or should I say "high moment of interia" flywheel). It has so much stored energy that the transmission has to deal with. Remember the energy stored in a flywheel at 9000 RPM is twice that which is stored at 6500 RPM - high reving cars need lighter flywheels. Personally, I think the Mazdaspeed flywheel will increase longevity in the RX-8. I wouldn't be surprised if something like it comes standard pretty soon in the 8's.

-Mr. Wigggles

thanks guys. Apparently there is another thread that was just started in the RX8 discussion board with a few other people stating the same problem.

Well, just an update for those of you interested. After 2 months and 28 days with a broke down car, I finally have a meeting schedule with the District Manager. I'm not real sure what it's going to accomplish, but I have a meeting. Hopefully we can get all of this worked out and get my poor car back on the road.

OMG its still down. !!!!
Sheet..

yep... We are at 133 total days down, and I have driven it for 89 days. It's been broke down for 60% of the time I've owned it! Where is the RX8 god when you need him? :D

thats i think makes it a Lemon by Ca DMV law..

I dont think Mazda it self is a bad company they just have fucking assholes that work for them.

thats i think makes it a Lemon by Ca DMV law..
It's a Lemon alright. That process sucks, but has been under way for a while. If something isn't worked out on the 4th I have a hearing for the Lemon Law on the 13th. After the Lemon Law my lawyer wants to go after lost time, etc... Hopefully everything will be resolved on the 4th.

I dont think Mazda it self is a bad company they just have fucking assholes that work for them.
I agree. And 1 person is given authority. The DCSM was given the authority here. The dealership could fix it becuase she said no, and the HQ wouldn't help or talk to me becuase she said no. I just dont' think she understands that it has been the same issue. What bothers me is the 2nd time I took it in it was Running! It just felt stiff and was grinding. Then I get it back and it breaks down!!!

A lot of times the stealership will file warranty claims on work that was never done, and pocket the cash/credit. Most likely, they NEVER did any work on your car, claimed that they did, did a warranty against mazda. And screwed you in the end. I live in a larger city where there are many mazda stealerships so if one stealership gives me shit, I take it to another, but fortunately my 8 has flooded one time, and that was after the flash, the clutch is ok, but the syncros are weak on the tranny and it grinds when I shift 1st and 2nd before the car is completely warmed up, and I warm up the car for 5 minutes, I also noticed the car SHAKES when I roll down the driveway in neutral, odd, but you can feel the shifter shake, I am guessing that the tranny is fucked in my car and it is a matter of time, when the car is out of warranty, maybe then it will convince my wife to get a WRX

Where are the rest of the thread? I am very interested how it turned out.

nedor

Yeah, Slims8, I see you're still posting on the board. Come back to this thread and play 'Paul Harvey'; give us The Rest of the Story.