Newbie in CT
 

Hello! I picked up my red 2004 RX-8 MT with Sport Package (VIN 125XXX) from Mazda of Milford on 2/28/05, and I've put about 1400 miles on it so far with no problems whatsoever (aside from being gently rear-ended at a stop light by a brand-new Acura RSX). Getting about 23 MPG, but that's mainly highway driving. No meaningful oil consumption yet. I love the car--I had been driving a 1986 Toyota MR2 that I also loved--but I have lots of questions for those of you out there with more experience. Any responses would be appreciated, here or via direct email.

--My RX-8 came with Dunlop tires rather than the Bridgestones I've read about. Any idea if the Dunlops are better or worse? They seem to have a higher treadwear rating. Anybody ever try them in snow/ice?

--It has a service sticker under the hood referring to N322-18881N. Is this the latest "flash" that I've read about on the Tech forum? I haven't had any starting/flooding issues, FWIW.

--I'm not interested in any aftermarket performance enhancements (at least not for the moment), but I already posted a WTB on the Parts forum to see if anybody wants to sell me protective things like a car cover, windshield sunshade, door edge guards, and all-weather mats. I live near the water, and I can't always garage the car, so I would like to protect it from the salt, sun, and sand. Anybody got any of those items to spare?

--If anybody wants my red factory spoiler, let me know. I'm thinking about removing it.

--Lastly (for now), anybody have any recommendations for service in Southern CT? I'll go to Mazda of Milford unless advised otherwise.

Thanks for reading! MARK

welcome to the boards....if you dont want your spoiler ill gladly take it off your hands....

Welcome to the board Mark! There are a lot of 8 owners in the NE area and we frequently get together for events, especially in the coming months, stay tuned!

As for your questions.

1. Most people I know got the Bridgestones with their cars. I would post on the wheels and tires or rx-8 discussion forums for an answer. Either way, I would NOT suggest driving your car in the winter with the stock tires. Snow tires are a must.

2. Check out the Vendor's Forum for some possible cheap prices on the items you seek.

3. FYI, when you remove you factory spoiler you will have holes left over in your trunk lid. I would only suggest removing it if you plan on installing a different spoiler.

- Justin

YOU BOUGHT MY CAR!
I fell in love with the rx-8 and put my deposit on that car at Mazda of Milford.
Due to some credit issues and a questionable trade...well...by the time i could make it work, it was gone(to you apparently!) I had to "settle" for silver!

Don't you just love this car?
I find it a blast to drive and get's all the right attention!

Enjoy your new 8! Maybe i'll see you on the road!

come to the tri-state meet guys...next weekend

DByrd, sorry to have hijacked your car, but for sure you're happy with the one you ended up with. The way it happened was that I went into the dealership planning to buy a Mazda3. The clever salesman noticed that I was driving my old Toyota MR2, and he suggested a test drive in the RX-8, too. Well, I liked the 3, but LOVED the 8, and when it turned out that I could get the 2004 8 for only a few grand more than a nicely-equipped 3, I couldn't resist. I went for the red RX-8 mainly because it was a little less expensive than the two silver ones on the lot. I presume that you still got a good deal!

Justin and Chris, I'll think about the spoiler issue. If I take it off, I guess I would have to fill those holes somehow--maybe I'll check with the body shop guy at the dealer. Switching trunk lids with another red car might also work? Or maybe I'll just get used to it. Thanks guys!

i would gladly switch trunks with you so you dont have to deal with holes....but congrats on getting the hottest color.....and come to the meet!

actually, i am very happy with my silver 8...i have had it now about 3 weeks and have over 1600 miles. i just got out of a wrx wagon that was very stealthy but had developed an engine noise that i was unhappy with.
i don't begrudge you the red. i hope you are enjoying yours as much as i am mine?
first oil change was done last weekend at about 1200 miles...$32.00 at mazda of milford(while i waited , of course...can't stand to be without it!
now as the weather gets better, it will be a tough choice...mazda or buell?...lol

mazda ofcourse!...dbyrd are you coming to the meet?

where is this event? i have heard about something on long island and also something in the pennsylvania area?

Welcome Mark........I also bought my car at Milford. Though I dont live in the area. I found it online and they gave me a sweet deal so I couldnt resist. Who was your salesman? They were all really nice there.......I get my car serviced at Mazda in Danbury........best of luck................

just got my first damage! on my way to mail my first payment!!!
isuzu rodeo, driver had been drinking, at a traffic light, his foot slipped off the brake and onto the gas and BANG. i got out and looked and saw no obvious damage to either car. not wanting to cost him his license we agreed to ignore. on closer inspection, a very small ding on right side of bumper...paint is not broken...could have been worse! oh well...