netrovers

I have a 2005 RX8 Shinka with auto trans. This is my first Mazda and first rotary engine. The check engine light came on and set 4 codes, P0300, P0301, P0661, and P2259. Is there a single problem that would set these 4 codes simultaneously? Any ideas would be appreciated. The only performance problems with the car are a rough idle (700rpms) and it is a little difficult to start, you have to get the revs up as soon as it cranks, off idle it runs great.

Loki

iTrader: (1)

P0661 and P2259 aren't deadly, but 0300 and 0301 (misfires) point to an ignition issue. It's common for the ignition coils to fail on these cars, so the general recommendation around here is that they're replaced every 30,000 miles.

However, the difficulty to start is itself a cause for concern. Is it more difficult when the car is warmed up? Did you just buy the car? Was a compression test performed recently?

For P0661 and P2259 you can search the forum, there are plenty of threads about them. For example, https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-tro...lenoid-171612/

netrovers

I just recently purchased the car, replaced fuel pump and retaining rings, ran seafoam cleaner in fuel system, refilled with 93 octane fuel, cleaned plugs. Car now runs great off idle but check engine light comes on after brief period of driving and sets the codes mentioned. It is harder to start when warmed up, although it never fails to start, the idle is so slow on start up that it will stall if you dont get the revs up. No compression test has been done.

Colon Terminus

Don't drive the car with the 300 & 301 codes. Get to the bottom of why you're getting those codes. The other two are pretty easy, you can find Do It Yourself (DIY) on this site. Use Google to search, like so:
site:rx8club.com clean ssv


That should help you get rid of the 661 code.


As to the 3xx codes:
Most likely fuel/air or ignition problem.


Fuel/Air:
You've replaced the fuel pump so we can assume that fuel is ok.
Check the air filter and clean/replace as necessary.
Clean the IAT and MAF sensors.
Clean the throttle body.
Clean the ESS.


You'll find DIY's on this forum for all of the above.


If that doesn't solve your problem, then turn to ignition:
Replace all 4 coils, wires and plugs.


Because you've been seeing misfires you'll also wanna pull and inspect your catalytic converter. If you're not required to pass emissions test then you may consider gutting the cat or replacing it entirely with a resonated mid-pipe.


Clogged/malfunctioning catalytic converters destroy rotary engines!!


Welcome to the club. We're here to help.

netrovers

Thanks! Looks like I have work to do. BTW...I just read a nice article about a guy here in Alabama that customized an RX7 into one cool ride. His name is Phil Sohn. Does anyone know him or know if he is willing to help other people with their rides? I would be willing to pay someone to make sure my car is mechanically sound, but I don't trust the local Mazda dealer.

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

Phil is a member here, but he wouldn't be my go to guy for RX-8 advice. There are some good shops in Alabama, such as BNR. Your best bet is to educate your self if you can and try and resolve things on your own. Anything you can think to ask has already been asked so just use the search function and thread the "sticky" threads.

yapakanichi

Sounds like a good tune-up will help fix the issue to me. Do you know the last the vehicle had a tune-up? Plugs, Coils, Wires?

I also agree withe checking the cat and possibly replacing if needed. You can either replace with another new catalytic converter or you can put a mid-pipie or straight pipe on.

However, if you needed to pass some kind of exhaust inspection I would recommend going with a catalytic converter. These cars love to give off fumes and a midpipe or straight pipe will more than likely not allow you to pass.