My RX-8 manual is my 11th Mazda in the past 11 years (multiple drivers, 4 Millenias, 1 Protege, 2 Protege 5's, 1 Maz6, 2 Maz3, and the RX-8). With the exception of the Maz6, the other ten, including the RX-8, netted a total of ONE problem over eleven years-a bad control module for the automatic climate control in one Millenia, replaced under warranty.

The Maz6 was a different animal. Replaced the clutch at 12k miles, starter, water pump, fan control module, every recall issue, etc. In fact, I traded in the Maz6 to buy the RX-8. The Maz6 was an early build, although I hear many of the problems still exist. The Maz6 was also the only car not built in Japan (not mentioned as a criticism, only providing a fact). Ford had a heavy hand in the Maz6, and plans to use the platform for other Ford products.

The point I'm trying to make is that I didn't abandon Mazda just because of one bad car. My RX-8 is a June 04 build, so maybe I missed some of the early problems, but I've been trouble-free. My impression of Mazda is that they do care about the RX-8, as witnessed by the upgraded flashes, and that they did a heck of a job engineering and building the car to begin with.

It's good to read about issues with the 8 and solutions to any problems (I replaced my battery with the 35MTP, even though it was working, just to make sure I don't increase the odds of flooding). It also would be good to hear from owners with no problems.

 

No problems for me either. This is my fourth Mazda. Millenia, MPV, Tribute, and now the 8. Had each of them about four years. My 16 year old now drives the Tribute. Nothing major. Just regular maintenance.

I've had my 8 since January. I have never felt this way about any other car. My neighbors think I'm crazy because I wash it any time it rains, which seems to be daily. Zaino every other week.

 

2nd mazda, no problems yet

*knocks on wood*

 

20,000 miles and the ONLY problem I've had is 1 "check engine" light. That was because of a loose gas cap. Never flooded. Getting 18.5 mpg daily driving and 23 or more mpg highway. Car seems bulletproof to me.

*also knocks on wood*

 

First brand new car, no problems other than the spring on the ashtray cover breaking and the glove compartment just dropping open without the slow descent.

 

No problem here 6000km today only summer driven love it.

 

That's sucks for the Mazda 6 line. Why is it that quality is always such an issue with American made vehicles?

 

Most "Japanese" cars are now made in the US (Honda, Toyota, etc.) so I don't think the place of manufacture is as important as the company behind it. Ford and GM, for the most part, make crappy cars and have relied on brand loyalty to keep sales flowing. Now both companies are paying the price for producing uncompetitive vehicles.

 

Glove compartment is supposed to slowly decend? i gotta check that one



MrJynx

 

4th Mazda here (still own 3 of 'em) and all have been wonderful, reliable, dependable, and FUN cars to own. Even though my 8 is one of the earliest ones here (bought mid-July 2003), she's never had any significant problems that are Mazda's fault. I can't blame Mazda for a rat eating her coolant hoses, an idiot rear-ending her on the freeway, or a piece of freeway junk attacking her hood, can I? The car may have had bad luck, but even after all those repairs she still drives like she just rolled off the showroom floor.

 

So far I have a little over 3K and other than:

Slight roof fuzz (to be fixed by Mazda or replaced)
One time almost stalled
Driver door hing needs grease

I've had ZERO issues with my car. It's been very reliable and I don't expect it to change any time soon. I average a little over 19mpg in mainly city driving and feel the oil consumption and fuel complaints are overblow (by my personal experiance).

 

a little brake squeal even after new pads installed by mazda and a clicking sound when turning which is also going to be fixed by mazda. other than that love my car.

 

sell it?

 

STOP doing 9k clutch drops while backing out of parking spots!

 

First rotary, 3rd Mazda (323, B2600) . Purchased Oct. 03. I currently have 8.5K miles and the motor runs better with each successive 1K miles. No warranty issues and the oil pan TSB is the only one I have needed. The addition of the REVI, Bonez Cat, and Hymee has improved the performance and gas mileage.
I bought a CZ and CanScan thinking I'd tune for even better power and performance but am beginning to think I shouldn't mess with a good thing. No regrets ( knocking on wooden desk).

 

I truly believe that Mazda offers great quality for the money. Honda and Toyota demand a premium price for their quality design and reliability, but no one seems to pay much attention to Mazda, which keeps the costs in check for us. I've owned 2 323's, a 626 V6 5 SPD, and an MPV ES. They have all been great cars for me, with minimal repairs. I have not pulled the trigger on the 8 yet, but I'm still considering it.

 

It's also made in the same plant as the new Mustang

 

The 8 is my third Mazda (626, 1st gen RX7) and I have had no problems with my 8 or previous models. I was taken with the 8 from day one and 9 months later I'm still smiling.

 

Next month will mark 1 yr of ownership and I havent had ANY problems with the car. Totally satisfied.

 

I've got 5K miles and no issues.

 

6k on it and not many issues other than stupid stuff.....brake tsb was done...they still squeal....water in tail light...getting fixed now (driving crappy loaner) but still happy and grateful for one...rx-8 side sill on door came up and had that replaced.....other than that i still love the hell out of my car and cant stand being without it!