Something Every RX-8 owner should hear/watch(New Info)
08-03-2006, 10:55 AM
#151
Screw gas mileage
Originally Posted by saturn
I feel as though if I get an RX-8 I'm more likely to be unsatisfied than not during my ownership period.
08-03-2006, 11:19 AM
#154
1.3L is enough 4 anybody
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I emailed Glenn Reynolds at InstaPundit about this, as well as the upcoming ECU flash recall. He owns a 2004 6 speed. He's posted RX-8 related stuff I've sent him before, including info about the hydrogen-powered RX-8.
He's also the author of "An Army of Davids". The amazon description of the book says:
Yep. Like internet enthusiast forums and Google video. 
He's on vacation this week, but I'll bet he'll be interested. Pretty widely-read blog too.
He's also the author of "An Army of Davids". The amazon description of the book says:
There was a time in the not-too-distant past when large companies and powerful governments reigned supreme over the little guy. But new technologies are empowering individuals like never before...
He's on vacation this week, but I'll bet he'll be interested. Pretty widely-read blog too.
08-03-2006, 11:27 AM
#157
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Originally Posted by ZoomZoomH
it is tuned differently for different torque/power band though
so i suspect the CX-7 and MS3 will have less teething problems than the MS6 had
so i suspect the CX-7 and MS3 will have less teething problems than the MS6 had
we know this, but the general public will only hear that theres a problem with the mazdaspeed6 and its the same engine as so an so
08-03-2006, 11:52 AM
#158
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The video said "starting July 1" that the change would take effect, so that means it is already in effect now. I got a call this morning from my dealership doing a follow-up on my service, et cetera. I asked them about this new survey rule thing. Whether it's BS or not I don't know but the guy on the phone told me that they still have to do the surveys, they are still considered and evaluated by Mazda, and they are counted for a "dealer satisfaction" score, but just that it is separate from the rest of the vehicles since the car in general has more nitpicky issues being a "specialty car" and so are is much more likely to have issues that are harder and take longer to diagnose, which upsets people and negatively impacts service scores. Allegedly the surveys go to a "different" department at Mazda that evaluates the surveys on RX-8s (probably just people set aside for that purpose within the same actual department) to see what the real issues were if customers weren't happy with their service. He said they are still scored based on this, although it is a "weighted" score and they don't use it as part of the total satisfaction. He said from now on "ALL the rotary engine CARS" will be evaluated separately as a subdivision/brand of Mazda. 
I'm not entirely sure what he was trying to say (he probably didn't either) but it sounds like he was saying that everything was still important, just that they separated the RX-8 out like it was a separate company almost. It was kind of a strange explanation, so I'd still really like to hear what MNAO has to say about this and hopefully in a somewhat less cryptic and confusing manner.
The guy told me that someone at MNAO had called to check up on why they had an unhappy RX-8 owner that was displeased over an oil change and apparently it turns out it was because the service department was extremely busy and he had to wait 2-1/2 hours for it to be done, not because the service or quality of work was bad. Maybe MNAO and the dealers were getting so many dissatisfieds because it took too long for service since nowadays everyone wants things done instantaneously.
I'm really reaching here, because I'm still trying to come up with a logical explanation for this.
I'm not entirely sure what he was trying to say (he probably didn't either) but it sounds like he was saying that everything was still important, just that they separated the RX-8 out like it was a separate company almost. It was kind of a strange explanation, so I'd still really like to hear what MNAO has to say about this and hopefully in a somewhat less cryptic and confusing manner.
The guy told me that someone at MNAO had called to check up on why they had an unhappy RX-8 owner that was displeased over an oil change and apparently it turns out it was because the service department was extremely busy and he had to wait 2-1/2 hours for it to be done, not because the service or quality of work was bad. Maybe MNAO and the dealers were getting so many dissatisfieds because it took too long for service since nowadays everyone wants things done instantaneously.
I'm really reaching here, because I'm still trying to come up with a logical explanation for this.
08-03-2006, 11:56 AM
#159
Originally Posted by BunnyGirl
The video said "starting July 1" that the change would take effect, so that means it is already in effect now. I got a call this morning from my dealership doing a follow-up on my service, et cetera. I asked them about this new survey rule thing. Whether it's BS or not I don't know but the guy on the phone told me that they still have to do the surveys, they are still considered and evaluated by Mazda, and they are counted for a "dealer satisfaction" score, but just that it is separate from the rest of the vehicles since the car in general has more nitpicky issues being a "specialty car" and so are is much more likely to have issues that are harder and take longer to diagnose, which upsets people and negatively impacts service scores. Allegedly the surveys go to a "different" department at Mazda that evaluates the surveys on RX-8s (probably just people set aside for that purpose within the same actual department) to see what the real issues were if customers weren't happy with their service. He said they are still scored based on this, although it is a "weighted" score and they don't use it as part of the total satisfaction. He said from now on "ALL the rotary engine CARS" will be evaluated separately as a subdivision/brand of Mazda.
I'm not entirely sure what he was trying to say (he probably didn't either) but it sounds like he was saying that everything was still important, just that they separated the RX-8 out like it was a separate company almost. It was kind of a strange explanation, so I'd still really like to hear what MNAO has to say about this and hopefully in a somewhat less cryptic and confusing manner.
The guy told me that someone at MNAO had called to check up on why they had an unhappy RX-8 owner that was displeased over an oil change and apparently it turns out it was because the service department was extremely busy and he had to wait 2-1/2 hours for it to be done, not because the service or quality of work was bad. Maybe MNAO and the dealers were getting so many dissatisfieds because it took too long for service since nowadays everyone wants things done instantaneously.
I'm really reaching here, because I'm still trying to come up with a logical explanation for this.
I'm not entirely sure what he was trying to say (he probably didn't either) but it sounds like he was saying that everything was still important, just that they separated the RX-8 out like it was a separate company almost. It was kind of a strange explanation, so I'd still really like to hear what MNAO has to say about this and hopefully in a somewhat less cryptic and confusing manner.
The guy told me that someone at MNAO had called to check up on why they had an unhappy RX-8 owner that was displeased over an oil change and apparently it turns out it was because the service department was extremely busy and he had to wait 2-1/2 hours for it to be done, not because the service or quality of work was bad. Maybe MNAO and the dealers were getting so many dissatisfieds because it took too long for service since nowadays everyone wants things done instantaneously.
I'm really reaching here, because I'm still trying to come up with a logical explanation for this.
now we need Mazda to respond, so we don't become merely a mulligan
08-03-2006, 12:32 PM
#160
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Hmm - did some thinking, now I'm curious. I wonder if Mazda Japan even knows about this. The whole bit smells of Ford; it's making me wonder. Do any of our friends outside of North America have any other input? What's your experience? Have you heard anything from your dealers?
08-03-2006, 12:55 PM
#162
Originally Posted by rotary crazy
one thing its for sure, the damage to mazda's name done by this is worse than the missing hp.
Remember that often what's intense and important and emotional here—on an enthusiast website—is no big deal to the vast majority of casual, non-**** car buyers. It's not even that important to the majority of sports car buyers, whose relationship with their cars is far more casual than the relationships found here. Many cars with great reputations have had—and will continue to have—potentially serious mechanical issues that get resolved over time. The engine on my Miata—and hundreds of others—had to be replaced because a bearing wasn't machined properly. Did it damage the Miata's—or Mazda's—reputation? I really don't think so—it's one of the most beloved cars of all time. I suspect if we were to visit the BMW or the Ferrari or the Mini or Honda or pretty much any other world of "beloved" cars, we'd discover the very same things that freak people out on this strange planet we call rx8club.com.
08-03-2006, 01:02 PM
#163
Originally Posted by juanjux
I've sent this to autoblog.com. I hope this **** makes Mazda go back before Mazda Spain takes it as a good idea.
It's my new favorite. (After this one, of course.)
08-03-2006, 01:18 PM
#165
Bah! Who needs a redline?
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The statements made in this video clip are very upsetting.
Although there are many RX-8 owners here that have had bad experiences with their local Mazda dealership service department, there are also many on here that have had good experiences as well. Even though my experience with the Mazda service department has been good so far, the statements made in this video clip will make me reconsider the purchase of another Mazda in the future. This is my first Mazda and I was hoping it wouldn't be my last.
But then again, I doubt Mazda of North America would care about the complaints from the 1,000+ RX-8 owners who saw the video clip and decided to write to Mazda, since the RX-8 is not their bread and butter product.
Although there are many RX-8 owners here that have had bad experiences with their local Mazda dealership service department, there are also many on here that have had good experiences as well. Even though my experience with the Mazda service department has been good so far, the statements made in this video clip will make me reconsider the purchase of another Mazda in the future. This is my first Mazda and I was hoping it wouldn't be my last.
But then again, I doubt Mazda of North America would care about the complaints from the 1,000+ RX-8 owners who saw the video clip and decided to write to Mazda, since the RX-8 is not their bread and butter product.
08-03-2006, 01:40 PM
#166
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Originally Posted by New Yorker
I suspect if we were to visit the BMW or the Ferrari or the Mini or Honda or pretty much any other world of "beloved" cars, we'd discover the very same things that freak people out on this strange planet we call rx8club.com.
Last edited by RX8Maine; 08-03-2006 at 01:51 PM.
08-03-2006, 01:52 PM
#167
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Since I got my call this morning around 8 a.m. for the dealership's survey about my service experience I just got a call from Mazda a few minutes ago asking how my dealership experience was, how well my service was done, et cetera. I have only ever received mail-type surveys before, so I was actually quite surprised. I was also asked if my recent service was an improvement over previous service or a decline. I was asked about the general attitude of the service department people and how helpful they were if I had problems, how well my service was done, any issues with it, or if it took an excessive amount of time. They also wanted to know how "nicely" they drove my car in and out of the shop and the overall care they seemed to place on my vehicle or if they gave me a hassle on any sort of warrantly work or TSBs I may have needed done. I haven't had any of those issues yet, so I couldn't say, but I did mention my "no charge" for some of the stuff I had gone in for because of my potential "inconvenience." Of course, these are all questions I have never been asked before on a service questionnaire from Mazda.
Another thing I have thought odd, though, was that every month I get a survey from Mazda about my car, its operation, quality, et cetera. I got the initial one in April and each month I get another one marked as a "follow-up" survey that wants to know my current mileage, what service I have had done, average mileage, et cetera. I don't know of anyone else who has gotten all these questionnaires from Mazda. I thought maybe because I started a special order directly from MNAO (and then bugged them repeatedly waiting for it )that maybe they paid more attention.
If this is any indication of what is to come, I don't think we are being abandoned.
Then again, right after I took delivery of my car I was called by Mazda and asked if I would be willing to participate in a long-term study of my vehicle for Mazda, so that just may be why I get the extra surveys and now the phone call about my service.
Another thing I have thought odd, though, was that every month I get a survey from Mazda about my car, its operation, quality, et cetera. I got the initial one in April and each month I get another one marked as a "follow-up" survey that wants to know my current mileage, what service I have had done, average mileage, et cetera. I don't know of anyone else who has gotten all these questionnaires from Mazda. I thought maybe because I started a special order directly from MNAO (and then bugged them repeatedly waiting for it
)that maybe they paid more attention. If this is any indication of what is to come, I don't think we are being abandoned.
Then again, right after I took delivery of my car I was called by Mazda and asked if I would be willing to participate in a long-term study of my vehicle for Mazda, so that just may be why I get the extra surveys and now the phone call about my service.
08-03-2006, 02:09 PM
#168
So this means now that they will disregard any type of feedback we give them? Not all feedback pertains to the model of the car. I voiced concerns on my last phone call feedback, but it had nothing to do with my car. I was pissed because they had promised me a rental car when I dropped my car off. I was told it would be there when I got there first thing in the morning. Well, the shop opened up at 7:30am but after I get there I find out the rental office doesn't open until 8am? WTF? So I wait around. Then well after it opened no one seemed to come ask all the customers in the lobby if they were waiting for rentals. So I asked one of the service reps. He calls over......then he tells me they don't have any cars available?
WTF???
So then I had to wait for their free ride service to get a ride home(so I could use my truck to go to work).
I was so pissed because if they would had just told me the rental office opened later and there wouldn't be a car available I would of arranged for a friend to pick me up so I could get to work on time. Instead I had to take time off of work.
Now complaints like this won't count just because I have an RX-8?
WTF???
So then I had to wait for their free ride service to get a ride home(so I could use my truck to go to work).
I was so pissed because if they would had just told me the rental office opened later and there wouldn't be a car available I would of arranged for a friend to pick me up so I could get to work on time. Instead I had to take time off of work.
Now complaints like this won't count just because I have an RX-8?
08-03-2006, 02:20 PM
#169
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Originally Posted by RX-Hawk
Now complaints like this won't count just because I have an RX-8?
08-03-2006, 02:23 PM
#170
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Originally Posted by swoope
Quote:
Originally Posted by Poweraxel
with this video being leaked out its a sad day for the rotary engine and its future development. I think some people might be overreacting to the what was said and i dont think much really is gonna change how the dealer will address certain issues and what not cause ULTIMATELY its Mazda Corp the company that authorizes warranty work, not the dealership. Mazda still cares about the survey score of the RX-8 but it just wont affect theyre CARE score due to the all of the enginnering problems there having with the new Renesis engine, which shows up with disgruntaled customers being mad at the dealership level. The Mazda techs still get paid for warranty work so i can imagine there not crying over putting warranty claims against mazda for engines and other warranty work.
everyone relax!
my 2cents
well,
i guess i am the odd case... still love the car but i have to premix to solve the problem i have...
my dealership has been excellent.... and i wait to see if the problem gets fixed... the s flash did not do it..
premix does...
poweraxel. pm me if you would like me to fill in the details..
beers
Originally Posted by Poweraxel
with this video being leaked out its a sad day for the rotary engine and its future development. I think some people might be overreacting to the what was said and i dont think much really is gonna change how the dealer will address certain issues and what not cause ULTIMATELY its Mazda Corp the company that authorizes warranty work, not the dealership. Mazda still cares about the survey score of the RX-8 but it just wont affect theyre CARE score due to the all of the enginnering problems there having with the new Renesis engine, which shows up with disgruntaled customers being mad at the dealership level. The Mazda techs still get paid for warranty work so i can imagine there not crying over putting warranty claims against mazda for engines and other warranty work.
everyone relax!
my 2cents
well,
i guess i am the odd case... still love the car but i have to premix to solve the problem i have...
my dealership has been excellent.... and i wait to see if the problem gets fixed... the s flash did not do it..
premix does...
poweraxel. pm me if you would like me to fill in the details..
beers
08-03-2006, 02:29 PM
#171
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Originally Posted by RX8Maine
Solution: Talk to all your friends who drive non-8 Mazda's and gang up on the bad service departments with surveys that will affect them. Let the dealer know how many loyal non-8 Mazda driving friends you have.
08-03-2006, 03:55 PM
#172
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You know, I have a decent service department where I live, but MNAO's service as a whole sucks. When I had my Audi, they would go through the service bulletins and check the car to see if any needed to be done when I brought it in- without me even asking! Since this car is about the same price as an A4, I kinda feel like maybe just maybe we should get similar service.
08-03-2006, 04:15 PM
#173
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My thoughts on the whole thing.
The RX-8: Love the car, even with all the quirks.
Mazda (Japan): Love a lot of their designs. (3, 6, CX, RX, MX)
The two Mazda dealers in my area that I've been to: Hate them
Mazda North America: Hate them now.
Dang. I don't think I can recommend the RX-8 to anyone in the US unless they know the dealer most convenient to them is good. It's a great car, but I'm not willing to put up with the crappy treatment I've gotten. I was 90% sure I was keeping the car after I got it. I was 70% sure after I got really bad service at the closest dealership to me. I was 20% sure after the dealer I leased from lied to me. I'm 99% sure I'm NOT sticking with my RX-8 after this.
I AM a bit sad I'm not going to be able to keep it but I'm pretty sure I'll be much happier with another car company.
The RX-8: Love the car, even with all the quirks.
Mazda (Japan): Love a lot of their designs. (3, 6, CX, RX, MX)
The two Mazda dealers in my area that I've been to: Hate them
Mazda North America: Hate them now.
Dang. I don't think I can recommend the RX-8 to anyone in the US unless they know the dealer most convenient to them is good. It's a great car, but I'm not willing to put up with the crappy treatment I've gotten. I was 90% sure I was keeping the car after I got it. I was 70% sure after I got really bad service at the closest dealership to me. I was 20% sure after the dealer I leased from lied to me. I'm 99% sure I'm NOT sticking with my RX-8 after this.
I AM a bit sad I'm not going to be able to keep it but I'm pretty sure I'll be much happier with another car company.
08-03-2006, 04:21 PM
#175
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My prediction is that Mazda won't be making a 2008 RX8, but will in fact switch over to an MX /Kabura vehicle to take the 8s place, for now.
That is not to say that they will abandon the rotary, which they are adamant about not doing, but switching over to a piston engined high performance sports car (the Mx5 isn't high performance) might turn out to be a good bet while they continue to develop thee rotary.
The reality is that a piston engined high power MX sports car would sell better than the RX8. It would also be easier to maintain, upgrade, tune, etc, and cheaper, particularly if they used their existing turbo engine, though tuned for about 300 hp. If it was a 2 seater lighter than the RX8 I don't think anyone would be complaining for a lack of a rotary. Even with the rotaries packaging capabilities. Sure the RX8 has its handling advantages but I'm confident that Mazda could build an MX7 that we would enjoy. It would also prove to be more tunable for the enthusiasts.
That is not to say that they will abandon the rotary, which they are adamant about not doing, but switching over to a piston engined high performance sports car (the Mx5 isn't high performance) might turn out to be a good bet while they continue to develop thee rotary.
The reality is that a piston engined high power MX sports car would sell better than the RX8. It would also be easier to maintain, upgrade, tune, etc, and cheaper, particularly if they used their existing turbo engine, though tuned for about 300 hp. If it was a 2 seater lighter than the RX8 I don't think anyone would be complaining for a lack of a rotary. Even with the rotaries packaging capabilities. Sure the RX8 has its handling advantages but I'm confident that Mazda could build an MX7 that we would enjoy. It would also prove to be more tunable for the enthusiasts.