Ok, so I bought my son this awesome RX8 (2004, with 2009 engine). I know there was some non-stock exhaust system already on the car. My son decided to straight pipe the exhaust and just let the muffler shop have his muffler!

I recently repossessed the car (he did not do any maintenance) and found that all sorts of dash lights are on. I also noticed that the power has tremendously decreased. I want to get another exhaust system on the car. I don't want stock, but something that sounds nice. I am thinking flow master or something like that.

Will straight piping a car affect the performance? I also found out that the APV valve is stuck open too. I am very angry that the condition of this car has so far cost me $2,500 to repair and now I need to purchase a new exhaust system and rims (rim has a crack in it).

Please help!!

 

First when you say the power has tremendously decreased, you don't say in what conditions . What lights are on, be specific? Are you get cel codes ? what codes? I would first respond to any cel codes and you may need a rotary specific compression test to see what shape the engine is in. If your son did no maintenance you could have a host of problems including poor ignition, failing cat and even engine damage. If you have engine and/or ignition and other issues, all of these things have to come first before worrying about an exhaust system. What have you spent $2500 repairing? You need to be specific here if you wish any real help from knowledgeable folks here on the club forum.

 

Hopefully the muffler shop didn't also keep the cat, since that's a $1300 item. But shops have to follow the rules about leaving it in place and working.

Excellent advice above about what to check and get specific info on. Compression test needs to be at the top of the list, since if the engine is bad you're looking at $4000 to $6000.

Have you considered selling your son to medical students to recoup some of the loss?

Ken

 

Yeah, codes first and what lights are on.

Your power may be being withheld because the computer thinks something is wrong. I suggest getting a reader / monitor or going to a parts store. Most will read for free. If you buy one, I suggest one to leave in the car. That makes it easier to monitor other stuff during the process. I like the UltraGauge, but others are using phone apps.

Where are you located?

The medical science thing might be something to pursue. I cannot imagine what it sounds like. The rotary has a distinctive note.