Hey All,

I recently bought a 2009 rx-8GT with 13,000kms.

I got an CEL code so i took it into my local mazda. the code read CAT bank 1 something or other. They said it was not a problem, cleared the code and charged me 60 bones.

That was 2 weeks ago.

the code came on again yesterday. I took it in this morning. Same code. this time mazda is replacing the CAT at no cost ( they said they usually cost over 3grand plus labour.)

I asked them if this is normal for an rx-8 cat to go bad after so little kms and they said no.

Have any of you had to replace your CAT so early in the cars life? Is this something I should be prepared to do every 15,000 kms or so?

Thanks,

 

Definitely not a regular occurrence that early... shouldn't happen ever if the car is healthy. Ask if there are any other CEL codes.

 

IIRC early 2009's had an issue with the cat. Talk to ASH8 to confirm.

 

thank you muchly.

I have also pulled up the evap code twice since i bought the car.

I bought a new fuel cap but TBH, i dont think it made a difference.

Thanks,

 

There were a few early 2009 S2 Manual CATS that failed (USA)...obviously it 'could' be a production issue...

The CATS for MT S2 have not changed, and is used worldwide for all Manuals 2009-2012.

Yes, the S2 Manual CAT is $2000 USD.
S1 is a different CAT and about half this price.

 

thanks, that gives me hope that its just a first run of production problem.

If its goes after the engine warrenty is up, would you get an oem or an aftermarket cat? An aftermarket would prob be louder ?

I find that the exhaust sound is great but any louder would be attracting too much attention. especially at 7000 plus rpm in addition to the cavitation rattle that we talked about before.

 

That seems really expensive given the aftermarket replacement options

 

Ok, thanks for the replies.

I have noticed a big difference since my new CAT was installed by Mazda last week.

I am getting double the fuel economy from before. I was going through a tank a week driving approx 60-70 kms a week.

Now I can go two weeks before I almost need a fill up.

TTYL