Buying an RX8, Carfax red flags?
 

Hello all, I've been lurking around the forums for a couple weeks now, mostly reading over the posts for new buyers, etc. I'm looking into getting an RX8, specifically a 2004 or 2005 as they're most comfortably within my price range. Recently a new listing was posted by a dealership near me and they've made the carfax available freely online.

What I'm wondering is if you guys see any red flags in here, or if there are specific questions I should ask the dealer based on the report of this carfax.

Particularly I was interested in the frequency of the oil changes (although I understand they wouldn't show up if the user did them his/herself), the transmission work, and the work on the fuel/injector system.

Here is a link to the carfax: CARFAX Vehicle History Report for this 2004 MAZDA RX8

Do you guys have anything to share, or see any red flags in here?

Thanks for any help!

i dont see anything that would put any red flags with me but make sure you take and get a compression test cause its a huge hassle if engine is actually failing cause you cant tell till it to late im just lucky dealer forked out a new engine for it.
huge head ache though...........noobs for the win...........:uh:

Yeah, I'm not going to buy unless I can get a compression test, or the dealer buys me an extended warranty on the engine. Thanks for the feedback!

dont trust extended warrenty i mean it make sure engine isnt failing before i got screwed and made it even worse for me for getting an engine outta the dealer ship cause warrenty told me to screw off

Oh, thanks for the heads up!

I don't see anything that will cause a red flag, but just to make sure, get a compression test done on the engine, good luck.

I've had 2 minor accidents and had 3 engines replaced. Neither CarFax or AutoCheck show any of these items. I wouldn't quite call them snake oil, but they don't show you the complete history of the vehicle.

how much are you getting it for? and btw how much would an rx8 cost with a rebuilt engine at 150k?

Not to much...

It all depends what year and the condition of the car...

Here is a link to the car in question 2004 Mazda RX-8 SPD, $9,988 - Cars.com

I would try to stay away from an '04. For a little more money you'd get a warranty and other minor things Mazda has changed over the years.

If an 04 has lasted this long, any problems that existed are likely worked out. And, it wouldn't be any different than say an 05 or 06 other than miles.

Rx8 used car
 

One thing i can say is if you are in the market for a rx8 make sure to look and examine at least three cars. That way the buyer can have a feel of the rx8's performance.

Another thing is that a prospective buyer should take the vehicle interested in to a rotary mechanic.

I would prefer a stick shift. Keep in mind a used vehicle may have areas of improvement or repair. Some things to look at is how the gears shift (smooth and snug). Clutch not loose or stiff (i.e:1/4 of clutch with ease to shift gear). Engine should turn on and off just fine after car has been warmed. Do not hold back when revving an rx8's engine. Test drive should include redline of up to 8500-9000rpm. Primarily in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. 4rth, 5th, and 6th should gear in fine and accelerate just fine. After test drive the engine and transmission should still be strong (no unusual noises, and able to go on another rigorous test drive).

The vehicle is designed to handle extremely well so hitting tight curves, testing brakes, and among other things should also be included. All fluids should be checked and there should not be any leaks. Engine oil is very important and must be clean, full, and replaced on a regular basis. Exterior of the vehicle should be acceptable. Paint should have gloss and frame should most likely have no damage.

Check under the car and make sure the exhaust and cat are fine. Check the electrical, since the rx8 has electrical power steering.

Finally; but not to exclude any important factors not mentioned in this post, be prepared for the possibility to invest in any future repairs (these should be minimal and not require any major costs ie; Engine or transmission replacements). Of course, any particular individual might be willing to invest in such things.