Towson MD area compression test
 

My wife's RX8 is having trouble starting when warm. Its a 2005, AT, with 45k miles on it..

I have done some research on the forum and it seems that is often a sign of engine failure. I don't mess with this car much, always been a nissan/datsun guy myself, but I do realize a standard car compression test wont do.

Ive also found researching here that the dealer typically wants about $200 to do a compression test. I was hoping someone in the area (towson md) may be capable (and willing) to help me out before I spend $200+ in hopes of a diagnosis.

Well...here is to hoping! Thanks in advance to anyone that can help me out!

Start simple, when were the plugs/coils last done? than go from there.

Original plugs/coils as far as I know...

Ill do those. I would guess the dealer would want to do that first anyway?
I did some searching on plugs/coils here and notice a lot of people mentioning coils are sold for about $100 a set. Best I could find was $35 a piece at rockauto.com, any "insider" mazda spots I am missing out on?

Thanks for the help.

Search the vendors on the site here, Mazmart is quite active here and has good prices.

Another question before I buy...

I am trying to think ahead here. If I buy coils/plugs and the problem persists, then I head to the dealership for a compression test, will I get trouble with them if the coils are not Mazda factory coils? The ones on Mazmart, sold for $240 (a far cry from the $100 I thought), say they are mazda factory parts. The ones at rock auto, sold for $140, are labeled BECK/ARNLEY.

I don't want to spend $140, then go to the dealership for them to tell me my problem is that I did not buy Mazda Factory parts and they won't warrant the engine with "aftermarket" coils, or have them force me to buy the mazda factory coils before continuing engine diagnosis.

Just curious if you or anyone else has experience with this, as I don't want to be throwing away money for no reason.

Well, I made the executive decision to just go pay $200 for the compression test. I figured why beat around the bush, when the worst scenario was probably the most likely.

Sure enough, compression was terrible and replacement engine on the way. I am going to do plugs, wires, and coils immediately after engine replacement. Thanks for your help!