Barry Gross

I just purchased a new 2005 RX-8 two days ago. I know virtually nothing about the car except what's in the owner's manual. Since the car had apparently been at the dealer's location for a while, it had about 200 miles on it. A salesman told me there was no break-in period for the car, but the manual says to vary speeds and don't revvvv too much for the first 600 miles. I would appreciate any and all information you folks might care to share with me. I really love my little red car and want to keep it for a long time. Should I let the dealer do the regular checkups on the car or should I (after being enlightened by you folks) change the oil and do other maintenance things myself? Will doing that affect my warranty? Today I read in the manual that the rotary engine should not be shut down when it is cold...such as just backing it out of a driveway and then shutting down. I also have read that adding oil every once in a while is necessary. How often, and how much, on the average...and what's the best oil for the rotary? I have used Castrol oil for previous vehicles. I have so many questions...but cannot believe how exciting it is to drive my RX-8!!! Thanks for any suggestions you may be willing to take the time to share. Barry...

lurch519

welcome to the club, and congratulations on your purchase.

yes there is a break in for the car, follow the directions in the manual.

depends on how mechanically inclined you are. i you have changed oil in the past, the rx-8 isnt that difficult, and will be very similar to other vehicles.

yes, you want to let the engine warm up to operating temperature before shutting down, to avoid flooding.

in your manual, it should state that you should check your oil at every other fill up at a minimum.

best oil, very big debate there.

also, this link will help you get your questions answered in the future

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-do-yourself-forum-73/diy-how-use-search-function-rx8club-com-forum-73846/