I think the a/c is a problem for all RX8's. Maybe its all the heat that engine produces?

 

I'm hoping that it's much simpler than that...

 

Actually, I expect it's exactly that.

The RX-8's compressor doesn't seem to cycle any more than the A/C compressor on many other cars I've driven; what's different is how quickly the system starts pumping out warm air once it's shut off.

I suspect that the air being drawn into the HVAC system is always that hot, and that's the reason why it's both so noticeable when the compressor cycles off and why some have complained that it doesn't seem to cool well...

 

Any ideas on how to fix it?

 

This may be a defect in the car. Maybe a design flaw.

 

I was fortunate to have two RX8's. The first I took in because the a/c was not cycling properly, hot and cold. The dealer had it for three days and had to call Mazda. They replaced an "O" ring and put more freon. Picked up the car and again the same problem. Make a long story short, the "dealer let me pick out another car. I still notice the new car cools better but I feel there is something more going on with the a/c issue. P.S. I traded in my Corvette for this car and I have to say this car is the most awsome sports car I have ever owned. Steve Tampa.

 

I had a 1981 first gen RX7 for many years. The AC on it worked in a similar fashion to the RX8. It would cool until some sensor said it was cool enough and it would shut off the compressor. Actually there was a clutch on the compressor that would disenage to effectively shut down the AC.

At that point, outside air (which felt quite warm) would start pumping out the vents. Once the interior air warmed up again, the sensor caused the AC to come back on (you would really notice the drag on the engine once the compressor kicked in). If you set the air to recirculate, then warm air didn't get pumped in and it took longer for the AC to cycle.

I now have an RX8. It feels to me that the AC works much the same. I usually keep it on recirculate and I find it works quite well. It also doesn't bog down the engine as much.

Maybe Mazda's termostatic control needs to have better temp settings.

 

Just a quick blurb.....I live in Orlando, FL. The temp has been up around 90 every day most of the summer. The AC works great and like some of the others have said, I can't even keep it on the coldest setting. I have to drop the fan to the first click and bump the temp dial a couple clicks towards warm. That is a FIRST for me...whew! I just love this car! I hope everyone with substandard AC takes it in to the dealer for a fixup, because it is definitely capable of some icy air!