So I started my 2005 RX-8 the AC didn’t go on so was driving the CEL started blinking then the speed started to drop decided to pull over started running really rough and was barely moving was like it was going to shut off, So had it towed to the shop and it’s been there for 3 days and they have no idea what is wrong with it my mechanic says every time he clears the error codes it shoots out different ones . Since I’ve had the car for almost 2 years now check engine light has come on and off from time to time but never blinked it has slowed down a bit sputters then speeds up to normal. I took to Mazda dealership 2-3 weeks ago to get the CEL checked out they couldn’t find anything wrong with it suggest replacing my battery cause with these type of cars the low battery causes it to show error codes. Can some help please ...

 

There is likely a whole lot going on, probably because the car's critical maintenance needs have been neglected. I don't mean to say that to acuse you, just that you probably aren't aware of how tempermental these cars get when they aren't cared for properly.

The flashing CEL is a misfire. It always is, it won't flash for any other reason. The most likely cause of the misfire is that you haven't replaced the coils, plugs, and/or wires, and they are old and dying. They need to be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles unless you upgrade to an aftermarket coil solution.

It is possible hat because your ignition hasn't been replaced, you have other problems with carbon fouling, damaged cat, possibly damaged O2 sensors, and fuel trims that are out of wack. Replace the coils, plugs AND wires. This is $200 from local auto parts stores and an hour of work with basic tools if you don't know what you are doing. Most of us can replace them all in about 10-20 minutes. If you have a dealer do it, expect to pay $800-$1,500. Then clean the MAF, clean the ESS, reset the ESS profile, reset the fuel trims, and let the car idle for 10 minutes before driving it. Chances are, it will feel like a brand new car.


If you HAVE recently replaced all 12 pieces of the ignition, then finish the rest of the list above.

 

Thank you .. Actully have done the colis etc. the maintenance is always done im pretty good about that but ill have them try the last part .. : )

 

Ah, good.

Does it start faster when cold than when hot? or are they about the same?

 

About the same

 

Good, that suggests that it isn't engine failure.

If the ESS and MAF cleaning, reseting all doesn't work, then a vacuum leak or front O2 sensor failure would be my next two recommendations to check into. If that doesn't show any positive results, get a compression test anyway.

 

Thank you again . Something else I did notice in the past week was the smell of fuel and light residue on the inside of my windshield could that be a sign of something specific .

 

Have them remove the driver's side rear seat cushion and open the fuel pump access hatch. You might have a failing fuel pump and/or one that is leaking. Fuel pressure problems could contribute to the symptoms you have.