Happy 8th to my 8 !!
 

So today is the 8th anniversary of the delivery of my 8.
(feel free to join in the singing, just keep your candles and cake away from the car!)

With only about 47k miles on it (I have another vehicle, obviously), it's still in pretty good shape, and I've been fortunate to avoid major issues. I recently got bit by the mod bug, thinking some money to make it "new" again would be far cheaper than a new car. So in the past month I've done tinting, wheels, summer tires, some aero parts, and lowered it with D-spec/H-techs. Truely, it's better now than ever. Don't know why I waited so long.

In the 8 years, really the only major issue I've had is a coil failure which resulted in gas flow to the cat. At that point, I first thought my engine was toast (which was about when the warranty was getting extended). Got new plugs, wires, coils, and a cat (under warranty for that). Otherwise, the usual ECU flashes, the starter/battery upgrade, etc are things done in the first few years of ownership. Otherwise, just regular service and TLC have sufficed.

Recently, I was having cold start problems...I decided to take it to the dealer this week just in case it turned out to be more serious or perhaps to get a starter under warranty. It was just an old battery. But, my other reason for going to the dealer was the end of my 8 year engine warranty, so I had them do a compression test, despite the mechanic saying it didn't need one. I told them "uh, my engine warranty is ending...I'd like it tested before it becomes my financial responsibility". They did (cost $200) and it passed fine.

For me, researching, ordering, owning, and driving this car is a bit of a sentimental story, which if you're interested in, you can read about at https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...29#post4042029 post 882. Bottom line, it's been a fun car to own and helped me stay close with my two sons, who have grown from young teenagers to fine young men during these 8 years.

Anyway, it's brought me miles of smiles to date and I expect many more. And thanks to the helpful folks here who have unknowingly assisted me in a variety of ways. Can't think of a better way to celebrate its birthday that to drive it, so pardon me while I grab my keys...

here's a then and now picture for your amusement...

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:smiley309

be sure you have the lastest ECU flash.

Yep...good call. Had them check that, too. I'm current.

Nice man, mine turned 8 in July :) But I have 126,000 miles and am currently installing my 4th motor :) BTW, your car is almost identical to cornholio135's BB 8 (well his black one anyway).

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Yep, I do see some similarities...

Congrats on your 8's 8th birthday as well, though ~32k per motor is not a great average, as you no doubt know. But I'm sure that's another thread...

Yeah..... I have had some bad luck with Mazda Remans but one of them did last 75,000 miles. My latest one going in next week is on my dime and built by Pineapple racing but will be turbocharged so we will see how long this one last :lol:

that's awesome! Rob has such a good reputation, so I'm sure you'll have a solid engine!!!

What turbo set up are you going with?

[QUOTE=rob4001va;4062003But, my other reason for going to the dealer was the end of my 8 year engine warranty, so I had them do a compression test, despite the mechanic saying it didn't need one. I told them "uh, my engine warranty is ending...I'd like it tested before it becomes my financial responsibility". They did (cost $200) and it passed fine.[/QUOTE]

Congrats happy b-day to your car! LOL

I've been learning more and more lately that when Mazda says an engine compression is "fine" it could mean a bunch of things - as there are so many variables that can affect the readings. But it sounds like your engine has been running strong, so congrats again!

Also, I just read your story from that link you posted. I have to say I connected with some parts of your story. My 40th AE was in some ways a post-divorce gift to myself for having survived that ordeal. Although mine was used, it was in great shape and in my mind it felt like a new car purchase.

Thanks for the "birthday wishes". The gift is in the mail, right? :rollingla

And I'm sure you're right about the engine and the compression test, but considering it is also the most likely way for Mazda themselves to evaluate it, I thought it was better than nothing.

But yes, I've been pretty lucky, all things considered, and the engine has been doing quite well...in fact, since I'm driving it harder more often recently, it feels better. Gotta love the rotary.

As for the "how I got this car" thead, thanks for taking the time to read it, and congrats to you for surviving your divorce (hopefully) intact. Don't blame you at all for gifting yourself the AE. Good for you. Cheers!

Happy birthday! These cars have aged well, that's for sure. Sign of a really great design.

Happy bday. All these great stories lately are great!

Yes, he has been outstanding. My motor in on it's way to me and I cannot wait. I am going with a Greddy kit with an upgraded turbo by AMR performance.

Yep, a turbo kit is coming your way to celebrate:rock:

And thanks for your kind remarks. I survived and I am intact, but it certainly drains you emotionally while you are going through it. I could see how the car helped you bond with your boys. I don't have children, so the car is helping me bond with myself:D:

Awesome. Sounds like you got yourself a super amazing set up. Think you'll be pushing the 300 pony mark with that set up?

Now that sounds like a fun new toy!

Another happy story. Should be like this always...lol

Hopefully, but I'll be happy with 280WHP and good drivability.

I can't wait. I have a 16 year old son and it is a fun project to do so he can see how hard work pays off.

Uh oh. If he's anything like my son was at 16, he'll want the keys...so he can drive it like he stole it. Lol