2005 slushbox with 65K on the odometer. Called local dealership with the VIN, here's what they found:

-New engine in: 2005, 2006, 2009

-All TSB's and recalls are up to date

I'm concerned with the quality of the last engine put in, looks like it has ~20,000 miles on it since it was put in on 2009.

Car is for sale at non Mazda dealership, asking price is 10K. Should I talk them down due to the frequent engine replacements or try to squeeze an extended warranty out of them for no cost to me?

I also have the full carfax, 4 owners:

1st owner = fleet vehicle for 12k miles....should I be concerned about this


I've read the huge sticky on all the things to look for when buying, compression test, cold starting...etc. I'm just wondering if anyone has purchased a used RX-8 with so many engine replacements.

Also wondering if you guys think the engine replacements were due to component defect or lack of owner maintenance...

 

A new engine is a good thing, and quality was improving on the reman. Still get a compression test to be sure.

But, $10k for an 05 auto is too high. If they hold to that price, definitely get an extended warranty on their dime. You have lots of leverage.

 

Blue & black book rate the the car at around 10K as well, how much would you guestimate the price and why?

 

The price seems firm, but try to negotiate with the price if you can. Some auto dealerships will negotiate with the price just to sell the car, because the car might be in their lot for a while and nobody's interested on buying it. Anyway, good luck and keep us updated.