chunkytrumps

ive the option to buy an 04 rx8 231 with 88000 miles,ive read several items about the car and was really after a little advice on what to look out for before i decide to buy.ive read about the cat,hid lights,wheels flaking etc,is there really anything that i should check apart from these issues?i know thata cat when on its way out is rather smelly lol,but what else do i need to look out for?any advice would be greatlyappreciated,many thanks all

sjschutz

A little bit of light reading that should answer your questions...

https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/new-potential-owners-start-here-202454/

RX8Soldier

iTrader: (24)

FAQ’s https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/rx-8-faq-please-read-before-posting-959/
New and Potential Owner’s, Start Here https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=202454
New Owner FAQ’s https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...&highlight=FAQ

Also, make sure you read the “stickies” in each sub-forum

sjschutz

Ah, thank God for you.

monchie

You won't regret it. It's a fun and unique car for sure. If you decided to get it, then you should read some informations on how to take care of it. Good luck.

Rotary Hunter

Fun cars, before buying it wouldnt hurt taking it by a rotary mechanic, when you test drive get it up to 40-50 let go of the wheel with your hands hovering over it see if it pulls hard, then if not press firmly on the brakes, see if the steering wheel does any shaking or if the car pulls in any directions, check for oil leaks and under car abuse, check the carfax and the kbb price, dont try to let a dealer or private party take you or try to convince you of anything that you know is not true, and post up any info here, we'll help you out on any questions you might have.

chunkytrumps

i did take a mechanic with me and he went over the car with a fine toothed comb,i was initially concerned about the mileage 88000 but all was good with the car,no leaks,knocks or rattles no smoke and he did the test with me when you brake hard with no hands lol,the car drives faultlessly,apart from needing a cpl of tyres,needless to say i did a trade with him for an older pug gti 180(straight swap)the insurance is cheaper as is the tax for the rx8,it cost me £30 fuel in the pug to meet him and only £20 in the mazda dont know what all the fuss is about with fuel consumption etc,the car is awesome,by the way i swapped my wifes pug for this so its her car,i have to make do with a boring audi a4!!!!!!!!

chunkytrumps

since having the car theres a nigly red light that comes on now and again,its in the oil pressure window,on further research its the engine coolent level light,the coolent level is fine ive checked it several times(both hot and cold)im guessing that its just the sensor in the expansion bottle?

RX8Soldier

iTrader: (24)

yes, a faulty sensor in the coolant tank is normal. If it bothers you, you'll have to replace the entire tank, not just the sensor/float. They can be found for cheap in the US. Not sure about UK.
Or, just put some black tape over the glass and be sure to check your levels.

Now, get some pics up! Welcome to the addiction

chunkytrumps

thanks for that,i think ill just use the black tape option,im used to checking the oil level so will keep an eye on the water too.its my wifes car and she adores it too,so much car for not a lot of money,pics to follow.

pistonhater

That sensor issue seems to be common among many RX-8 owners. My light has come on a couple of times during very HOT days - even when the coolant level was ok - but then went away.

Good luck!