Hi All,

Just got my 8 back from Mazda for a compression test and it turns out that the compression is absolutely fine!

The problem is, so far I've done the following....but the hot start issue is still there.

Changed the Coils
Changed the plugs
Installed CatBack exhaust [Just something I wanted to do, not really to solve the issue]

Mazda have said they would have to look into it more to find the issue, but unfortunately I'm out of 8 funds for the month....Just wanted to see what your opinions are?

 

What year is your car? How many miles? Have you tested your starter motor?

 

Do you have your compression results to post?

 

2004, 54,000, and I believe it's the updated Mitsubishi starter.

And my compression results are at work - but the Mazda tech said there's no chance it could be compression?

 

Well, there's always a chance...

Have you done the 20 brake pedal stomp ESS Profile reset yet?
Have you cleaned the ESS?
Have you had the fuel system pressure tested to make sure the fuel pump is still up to the task (common issue)?

What about the spark plug wires?

BC.

 

I was gonna say the same thing. I believe this is my hot start issue. Since I only have the issue when the car is below a half a tank. I think its not able to get gas from one side to the other. I'm also getting a feeling of running out of fuel when the secondaries should be coming on line. Feels like a its running out of gas. I'm gonna be changing the pump with the upgrade from BHR and hope if fixes the problem.

 

Op please call Mazda and get the compression numbers from your test and post them here. When I went to have my compression checked, I also had hot start issues. They will sometimes pass you even if your are very very close to their minimum number just so they dont have to replace your engine for a while (if your warranty valid still). Anyway, make sure you get tangible numbers from them and not just a pass or fail, this will give you a nice idea for your engines overall health, and you can rule that out if its the case.

 

Starter motor

Why? Cuz u guys seems to forget that the starter motor is also a wear item and requires replacement every so often

 

Cheers for all the advice!

Attached a pic of the compression results Mazda gave me - what's your thoughts?

In the notes it says 'Compression Is Surprisingly OK' Haha!

 

Should be 6 pressure numbers (psi, bar, kpa) with a cranking speed. That is a crappy way to record results if the stars are where you scored. Even if that is what you had front and rear, part of the passing measure is difference between adjacent faces. I am questioning your tech's competence...

But, assuming those marks are 'right', your starter is really weak, and you are just barely passing. A new starter will mask the problem for a while, but if you are out of warranty (2004 +8 years = 2012) get prepared for a finding a new engine.

 

Just wanted to make an update on this!

I installed a 2kw starter motor this morning, and now it starts hot every time without any groaning!

It's like having a new car, it really is - now I don't have to plan journeys around petrol consumption in fear of it not starting after I've paid for petrol etc etc, it's fantastic!

I'm going to be opening a savings account Monday to start saving for an engine rebuild, just for the day I actually need it - but thank you to the above people, for now I have a working car again!

 

didnt i said it was the starter in the first place?

most people seems to forget that thing is a wear item and it goes bad overtime.