Ok, guys. I'm going to look at a 2006 automatic, leather, wing, accent package. Car is one owner with 94,380 miles. I've been reading this site for the past couple of months and have one question. So here goes, this car isn't anywhere near a dealer to get a compression test done. Is there anything tel tail to look for? And don't be mean about the automatic, I'm almost 60 and just don't want to push a clutch anymore. I hope there will be some help tonight yet. Thanks to all for all of the great reading.

 

Being mean about automatics is against the rules of the forum. It's used as an example of what not to do.

One sign of low compression is hard starting when hot. Hopefully some of the more knowledgeable members will come on with more. I suspect the most common advice will be to do what it takes to get a compression test. It is possible to get a good idea with an ordinary compression tester. There are posts describing that. I don't have them bookmarked. Maybe someone else here does?

Ken

 

Post where you are, someone may be able to point you in the right direction.

The car MAY be still in the 8 year, 100,000 mile US warranty. If it is, drive it to the nearest dealer for the test if you buy it before the test.

Hot start is an indicator, but only for a very worn engine. Mine fails on 5 out of 6 faces, 2 massively. Rebuild is scheduled, but the care just barely has an issue with hot starts. And even then, I am running in 5 seconds. For me, today, a hot start issue is take 4 seconds to start.

With the VIN, and time on the mazda usa web site, you might be able to get a service history. You can also call a dealer in the morning. They should be able to help you. Ask about the maintenance history, and specifically about an engine replacement. A recent one may be a good sign, but the service day and length of warranty are the big things you need to know.

 

Do not buy any RX8 without that rotary specific compression test beforehand, or be prepared to spend thousands and thousands more on replacing/rebuilding your engine, especially if it is an automatic with that high mileage. The autos had the worst engine reliability record.

If you need the auto, so be it, that is ok, we still want you among us. Just be smart and get that compression test beforehand . Don't let your heart overrule your brain here.

 

I would be prepared for a long test drive to the nearest dealership to have it done. As has been stated numerous times, buying an 8 without the test is just an invitation for a headache and an empty wallet. You may be able to find a rotary repair shop near you that can perform the test, but you will need to post your location so people can let you know if anything is in the area that they may be aware of.

 

As my post says, Oh. More specifically North Central Ohio. Thanks for the response.

 

Just got off with Mazda USA. According to their records the engine was replaced at 91990. 3-15-15 Is their information trustworthy? It all matches with Carfax, the mileage and all. Except Carfax didn't say anything about short block.

 

Mazda records would be better than Carfax on that I think.

That said, when my buddy (Mazda tech) printed my service history there was an engine replacement and some other stuff missing on it. There is also a cat replacement that I am 99.9% sure never happened. The online Mazda records in the mymazda page don't match what he printed either and that was the only dealer that did any work on my car.

 

I'm assuming you're buying from a dealer since you're having to track down the history of the car? Traditional buying advice is buy from personal seller (with records) when possible and buy the best condition you can afford. Of course, in the end, we usually buy the one we see and really want so all that goes out the window. Sounds like you're doing your homework. Good luck with your purchase!

 

No purchase�� Car felt great in park and neutral. But had a horrible vibration in drive and reverse. Overall condition was poor.Inside and out. Still looking.

 

You might want to reconsider.
Read this thread:
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-tro...on-idle-46464/


Sounds like a bad motor mount, possibly right side only. Explain this to the dealer and see if they won't look into that.


Could be you're passing on an almost perfect car except for one bad motor mount.

 

He said the condition was all around terrible, in what way does that make it an "almost perfect car?"

 

Oops! Missed that. So much for my reading skills.

 

Got one!!!! 05' grand touring, new engine, cat delete with Borla exhaust. Even has the window sticker, only option not on it is Navigation. Mazda spare and all. Arrest-me-RED! Now the bad, only one key. ��

 

Congrats! Let's see some pictures. Did you end up with an automatic?

 

No automatic, wife's a little upset about that. I'll get some up as soon as I read how.

 

The old owner can't legally sell you a catless car. Sue them and use the money for a turbo or all the replacement part's you'll need in the next year or so.

Congratulations!

 

Awesome. My wife was upset about the manual as well. She'll get over it.... or maybe not

 

Congrats on the 8.

 

Now I know why the gas mileage isn't that great, can't keep my foot out and can't stop driving it! I think my gray hair is getting some color back��

 

Congratulations on your new toy, enjoy!

 

Welcome

Congrats.

And, check the congrats thread below.

 

Bring the car up to Michigan and i will help you get it on the track.

Waterfordhills.com