I have been reading some of the new buyer threads and I have just 2 questions since I am thinking of getting a new 2004 RX-8.

1) How much oil does it burn and how frequent must I add oil?
2) Has the cold start problem been fixed with the newest Flash Upgrade?

The last thing I need is a huge pain in the ass with a new car. JD Power gave the RX-8 2 of 5 on Mechanical Reliability. I have a good friend @ GM who says JD Power is the most unbiased and has the most number of samples to make their ratings.

thanks

1, I use about 1/2 quart in about 3,000 miles.
2, The problem "WAS" with cold STOPS not starts and most people say yes the m-Flash fixed it. But I didn't have a problem on the early flashes.

first ... u have to check the oil level frequent(at least once per week).. then u will know how much u have to add. and relax man.. rotary engine is small so it doesn't require much oil. for example if the oil level on dip stick is just about half way below full. just add about 1/2 bottle of oil.. to it.. and wait about like 10 mins then check the dip stick. if it's close to full u can stop adding if it's not. u can try to add some more.. but not full bottle..!!
the #2 question.. sorry man.. I havn't replace the new flash.. so.... have no idea. but I will replace it soon. but anyway.. it's not that serious i think.. !!!

The last thing I need is a huge pain in the ass with a new car. JD Power gave the RX-8 2 of 5 on Mechanical Reliability. I have a good friend @ GM who says JD Power is the most unbiased and has the most number of samples to make their ratings.


:confused:


We're very biased here.... ;)

I added about a quart every 1000 miles for the first 6000 miles. Adding oil is really no big deal. On my previous car, I never changed the oil myself, never added oil myself, never even checked the oil myself. When I was deciding to buy this car, having to deal with this as one of my concerns as well. But it's very easy. And it brings me closer to the car

As for the cold start/stop problem, I've had my 8 since June '04. It came with all the latest flashes. I haven't had a single problem starting. Note though that I've only ever shut it down cold once ... can u say "stalled" ... my bad, not the car ... but it started right up again.

Bottom line ... buy it...you won't regret it. These aren't issues.

I added a half a quart at about 2500 miles (engine oil light came on). Not a big deal. I have had no start up issues at all (got my car with the M flash).

Dont read too much into what you read on the internet. Thats what I did. I thought man I dont want to buy this car, too many problems. In the end just buy it, drive it and enjoy it. You will not look back.