Hi, I'm looking to buy an 04 RX8 from a friend of a friend and need to know some basic Mazda knowledge. I've always wanted to own an 8 and now that I have a chance I don't want to buy a bad 8. All I know about the car is its an 04. Has a new engine with 40k miles that recently passed a compression test. Has new spark plugs. I would like advice on what to look for. I have questions about upkeep. I love 8s and am willing to learn how to treat them right so to speak.

 

It's Just like any other car , doesn't require special maintenance if that's what you're asking. Just change/check your oil levels , make sure the ecu is flashed.

 

One word: WARRANTY, 8 years or 100,000 miles. Get a 2006 or newer.

Read through this: New and Potential Owners, Start Here.

 

^+1


read stickies

 

The Guy who is selling it I'm buying cash from. Well he is selling for price left to pay dealership BC he just got a new vehicle and wants to get the extra monthly payment of his hands.

 

You said it passed a compression test, is this from what he told you or did you get it tested? You need to get it tested yourself so you have the compression numbers and then you can decide if its ok.

 

Better be safe than sorry and get a compression tested yourself before obligating to it, good luck.

 

Yeah he told me it passed perfect but do I just go to a normal mechanic shop and ask the price?

 

So true.
There's a misconception that the 8 requires all sorts of special attention. It doesn't. It's just that one can't ignore routine little checks and service the way most people do with their cars.

It's that simple.

 

Ive noticed a lot of rx8s needing a new engine around 60k so having a warranty would be nice otherwise its about 5k+ with no warranty

 

What he said....
And...
Just make sure the engine is running hot before shutting off,check oil every 3 fill ups or so.... Non synthetic oil 5w20....
And it was recommended to me when driving it short distances revving the car to 3k to 4k rpms for about 7 seconds, let it drop down and shut off.

 

Thanks guys. How often should check the parts for replacement like the plug wires, coiled, and what does it mean when they say the "car idle"?

 

"Rough idle" sorry