I'm preparing to purchase an 8 sometime this spring, after I graduate and start my full-time in 4 weeks. I've been looking into local costs of things like rebuilds and compression tests.

I found a credible rebuilder in Toronto, and I'm about 45 minutes out of the city, so worst case scenario I can get it done there at an estimated $3,200 with reusable core.

I was also looking into compression tests, and this is where I had a question. I contacted Budds Mazda (Budds is a well regarded dealer around here, they have Mercedez, Jaguar, Mini, BMW, and other lots). When I contacted them regarding a compression test, I was told

"With the rotary engine we would do what is called a rotor balance test as opposed to a compression test – the cost would be $199.95 + tax and would take about 2 – 2.5 hours to complete."

I've never heard of a rotor balance test, I'm assuming that this will only catch things like misfires or something that might be off-balance. I don't see this helping determine engine health like a compression test would, though.

Has anyone heard of a rotor balance test?

 

yes, it means "avoid this dealership like the plague"

 

I sort of got that feeling

I think there are one or two more Mazda dealers within a reasonable distance, although that one was likely the largest of the bunch.

What does the rotor balance test really check? Does it offer any kind of benefit

 

If by the "balance test" they mean 3 numbers on each rotor at a given rpm, then that should be ok. Maybe they are referring to the allowable differences between chambers and sides as "balance". It is called out in the service manual.

 

i've owned rotary Mazda's for 20 years, and spent 10 years working at Mazda dealerships and i've never heard of a rotor balance test.

i think they just have a fancy way of saying compression test

 

That could be true, I'm waiting to hear back from another I e-mailed this morning. Getting my numbers together to make sure I can really make this dream come true

 

i'm kind of curious actually, do they try to get the rotor to like stand on one leg?

 

Yep, by someone who doesn't know what they're talking about to someone they think won't know any better

Welcome to the typical Mazda service center ...

 

i actually do have the t shirt for that.

its not just Mazda, its any dealership pretty much

 

Run away

 

+987654321 On running away...

 

Rotor balance test? maybe they are talking about the rotor @ the braking system ?

ok, run away, as fast as you CAN.

hell, someone should call that stealerSHIT up just to humiliate them.

sad ... and that's coming from a Mazda dealer ... Rotary Engine (Mazda corporate) should say "thanks! *******!" ...

 

Can that be reported to Mazda of America? Or will they be considered an independant dealer and not care.

 

true, dat ...

 

Luckily, I was able to get an estimate of $99 (their hourly rate) for a compression test from another local Mazda dealer