I'm looking to buy an rx-8 with an auto tranny between 2004 2005 and 2006 in the next two weeks. They all have between 100,000-120,000 miles on them.

what things do I need to look for with these cars while test driving?

I know that on my lexus, at 90,000 miles there was a $2,500 required service that was absolutely needed. If this was not done and the car was being sold near or over 90,000 miles then the car was worth very little.

I'm a newbie and have been reading the forum but still want any advice.

 

I just joined the forum (introduction will follow), but here is what I have come across, and had to have replaced on my 2005 RX-5 that I purchased almost 3 years ago. When I purchased it, it had about 59,000 miles on it. I am now at about 90,000.

1) First thing I had to get replaced was the battery
2) Engine had to be replaced just around 80,000 miles (yes, brand new engine)
3) Spark plugs & wires had to be replaced pretty quickly, too
4) Two weeks ago my starter gave up (no warning-towed again) $700 cha ching
5) Sensor for the coolant bottle was acting up (red light was coming on), yup replaced

I hope this helps a little bit. It could be that this is not the norm, but I really do keep up, and take care of my cars. I never came across that many things with anything before. Too much invested now. I almost feel like I have a new car now . Just be careful.

 

Before you purchase the car I would have a compression test done unless the seller can produce the receipt for the engine replacement. You will also want to closely inspect the CAT. Good luck.

 

Don't bother with the 04-05 automatics, you will be very disappointed in them. They had 4 speed transmissions and 4 port engines. The 06+ auto rx8s got the 6 port engines(more power) and 6 speed transmissions.

Read this whole topic https://www.rx8club.com/rx-8-discuss...t-here-202454/ it will explain everything you need to know before purchasing the car.

 

04s will have no extended engine warranty, 05s, just barely. A 100k+ mile engine can go at any time.

 

With over 100k invested I would be on the lookout for ninja stars on the side of the car.

 

I agree '06+ only. Get another RX-8 guy in the area to go with you and help you see what's what. Also see how much *** it hauls. If it smokes alot right after startup, that's could either be an ignition problem or a failing cat. I bought mine at 114K, was almost not worth it. But I brought it back from the grave. Some things are fixable for relatively cheap, some are deal breakers.

Good luck!

P.S. Compression check @ Mazda!!!

 

Forget those high mileage cars, get lower mileages...you'll be glad you did.