Smoke/Gas Mileage
 

Alright I know I'm probably going to get slammed for this, but I'll ask anyway and hope that I can glean some information out of the hazing.

Just got back from being stationed in Japan 2 weeks ago and picked up my new (2004) Rx-8. Only 1 owner so it's pretty much in perfect condition. Onto the question.

My gas mileage seems to be horrible. My car seems to be running very rich and it's averaging about 13.8 mpg, and that is with me driving conservatively. Also occasionally when I start the car there is dark gray smoke that will come out the back, don't know if this is normal since the rotary burns oil?

Anyhow I was wondering if anyone knew ways in which to increase gas mileage or what mechanically could be causing this.
Any help would be appreciated.

Mileage depends. Is that city, or highway, or what % mix?

No, you shouldnt have dark gray smoke at start up.

More info on the car. Mileage, work done, maintenance, any CEL's?

It is mainly city, but still my last fillup I kept it under 4k and still only got 185 miles before my light came on.

Right now it's got 42k miles, just got it two weeks ago and am planning on replacing all of my fluids within the next week. I have been adding oil, as needed, on a regular basis.

The only light I have had come on is my coolant light and that went away as soon as I refilled it all the way.

Also, just incase. When I rev my engine there is almost always a clinking sound like some piece of metal is loose and bouncing around.


Hope you can help haha. Otherwise I'll try to find out when I change all my fluids.

Does anyone think it could be the air filter? In any case I am replacing that soon but am just curious if anyone thinks it will solve problems.

Sounds like u have "marbles in a can", Did u get a CEL or power loss?