Problems starting
 

This just started a few days ago. But my 8 is having a hard time starting. When it is going it runs just fine. At first I was thinking maybe the fuel pump but the more I think about it . It can not be that or it would not run fine when I get it started. But when it is about to turn over it seems to choke then will turn over. I was thinking maybe the battery or the starter. Does anyone have any ideas of what it could be.

What year how many miles.

Could be anywhere from battery to plugs.

Give us more info.

It is a 2004 with 47k 6 speed

Let's agree on the terminology and then someone can offer suggestions. What does "...about to turn over..." mean? Is the starter motor cranking (turning over) the engine but the engine is not starting promptly? Or is the starter motor not cranking (turning over) the engine at all?

Flooded maybe? Are you letting the car warm up before you shut it down?

Sorry for asking, from your join date and the little information provided, I am assuming that you have not owned the car the entire 47,000 miles to know this by now...

1. I believe there was a starter recall/replacement from Mazda, check your dealer if it was done.
2. When was your last tune-up done? (Spark plug(s) could be going bad)
3. You may try cleaning your throttle body.
4. I recently installed a fuel pressure gauge, good thing to know/have.
5. Last but not least, compression check.

^^^ good advice right there.
most likely a simple fix

I took it into the dealer and the are talking about an engine replacement do to the problem in the 04, 05 and 06's. They are running the test with mazda so that Mazda will pay for the new engine.

No I have not had this car for the full 47000 miles but I have had it for about 23000 of them. this is just the first problem I have had with it.