My 2004 RX8 is having trouble starting right now. The weather has been cold lately (30-50 degrees), and I've been driving my daily because of it. I also have not started it up for a few days, which I know is probably part of the problem. The engine is cranking but it just won't fire up. My fuel gauge is off and it gets to E at 1/4 of a tank, and it is very low. I put in a small amount but I'm not sure if it would be enough to solve that problem if that is the issue. Possibly flooding, bad fuel pump, or plugs/wires/coils? I'm not sure what it could be. I have not tried starting it too much in fear of ruining my fuel pump even further or hurting my starter/ignition. Definitely in need of some tips and advice, thanks in advance!

 

Try to deflood it. Make sure you jump the battery while cranking with your foot to the floor for about 7 seconds then wait a minute and crank again with your gas pedal fully down. After 3 tries, turn the engine over as you normally would. If it doesnt fire up, repeat the process again from the start.

Make sure you unplug the vacuum pump first before starting.

Explained perfectly in this vid.

 

The RX8 is running once more, much appreciated information! The video broke it down pretty easily, and it was definitely flooded. I do also remember the last time I did start her up, I did not let her get quite warm enough. That's a recipe for a good flooding, because it was flooded pretty badly. Also, is flooding something that can occur over a period of time? Or is it an individual occurence that can cause it? Once again, thanks for all of the info!

 

Great news glad you got it going again. Flooding can happen due to a weak ignition system (coils, plugs, wires and starter) but can also happen if your cat is clogged or plain old low compression. Any engine codes?

 

+1^
Add to the usual suspects a weak battery.
My experience is about a 3 year lifespan.
If it's been longer than that consider a new one as preventive maintenance, especially with winter coming up.

 

I've not checked any of the engine codes yet, but my ignition system is relatively new (all replaced within the last 15k miles) so I would hope it's not faulty. The low compression is something I'm already getting prepared for, considering I bought it with the compression already in it's decline. I'll definitely check the cat and see if it's clogged.

 

Did ignition include coils? Or just plugs and wires?

 

Ignition system is coils, plugs, wires and starter.