Owners have filed 212 complaints
about the 2005 Mazda RX-8 with NHTSA between 2005 and 2023.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 5 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 54
Against the median year of the Mazda RX-8. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 34
6.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 45
26% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Manual Transmission
2244.9%
Engine
816.3%
Clutch Assembly
714.3%
Pedal/Hand Lever(Motorcycle)
510.2%
Cooling System
36.1%
Side/Window
24.1%
Electric Power Assist System
12.0%
Rotor
12.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
127.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
95.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
74.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
2716.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
4326.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
2716.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
2716.9%
150,000+ miles
85.0%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2005 Mazda RX-8 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jul 2005peak 11Oct 2023
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Mazda RX-8
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
EA15001Opened 24 Feb 2015Still openAIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
PE14016Opened 11 Jun 2014Closed 2 Mar 2015AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
PE09045Opened 23 Sep 2009Closed 19 Aug 2010POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET FAILURE
On September 23, 2009, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation to investigate allegations of the clutch pedal bracket failures in MY 2004 - 2006 Mazda RX8 vehicles.In response to an information request letter sent by ODI, Mazda stated that the failure mechanism may be related to an improper fastener attachment sequence to the body.The improper sequence may create a distortion of the pedal bracket and create a stress amplitude during pedal usage that may go beyond the wear out limit of the bracket.Mazda stated that the percentages of vehicles experiencing the d...
Recalls on the 2005 Mazda RX-8
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20194964,460 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator or airbag module replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected. Additional note: This recall supersedes recalls 2014-245 (Mazda Recall 7714F), 2018-038 (Mazda Recall 2018A) and 2018-584 (Mazda Recall 2018A). Vehicles repaired under the previous recalls do not require repair under this recall.
Recall 20180385,251 units in Canada
Airbag
Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2019496. Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2019496">recall 2019496</a> for more information. On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. Additional Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2016-259 (Mazda Recall 9416E) and 2017-011 (Mazda Recall 0617A) for RX-8 models only. RX-8 model vehicles completed under those two recalls do not need to be completed under recall 2018-038 (Mazda Recall 2018A).
Recall 201803638,909 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the driver frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. Additional Note: This recall supersedes recall 2015-247 (Mazda Recall 8215F). Vehicles completed under 2015-247 do not need to be completed under recall 2018-036.
Recall 20172896,788 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, the fuel pump discharge pipe may crack and cause a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire, increasing the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel filter body with an improved part.
Recall 20170118,853 units in Canada
Airbag
Note: The recall for the 2005-2008 RX-8 models has been superseded by recall <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2018038">2018038 (Mazda Recall 2018A)</a>, and the recall for the 2005-2006 MPV models has been superseded by recall <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2018578">2018578 (Mazda Recall 2618F)</a>. On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag inflator. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Additional note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 20165686,788 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, the fuel pump sealing rings may deteriorate from being exposed to heat from the engine and exhaust pipe. Over time, this could cause the fuel pump rings to crack, which could result in a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel pump rings with new parts and add additional insulation to the fuel tank.
Recall 201524757,861 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the driver frontal airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the airbag module. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2018-036. Please see recall 2018-036 for more information. <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2018036">Click here for more information</a>.
Recall 201457046,000 units in Canada
Airbag
Mazda Canada is conducting a voluntary Safety Improvement Campaign concerning the driver's airbag inflator on certain vehicles equipped with Takata airbags. Mazda will replace the driver's inflator on affected vehicles. This action is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Note: This Safety Improvement Campaign is superseded by recall 2015-247 (Mazda Recall 8215F). Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2015247">recall 2015247</a> for more information.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 74,000 milesWeare, NHFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FUEL LEAK AT GAS TANK AREA CAUSED MASSIVE FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11405308 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesMelbourne, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 MAZDA RX-8. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE JUNK YARD. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION AND SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, PELVIC, AND RIBS. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11186152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,003 milesAllentown, PA1 injured
POWER TRAIN
DRIVING MY MAZDA RX8 LAST NIGHT ON A LOCAL HIGHWAY SHIFTING FROM FIFTH TO SIXTH GEAR THE CLUTCH PEDAL GAVE WAY AND DOING 65MPH AND STUCK ITSELF UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD TO SHUT THE CAR OFF AND HIT THE E BRAKE TO STOP. LUCKY IM NOT DEAD.
NHTSA complaint #10886296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
JAY, FLCrash
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 MAZDA RX-8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT VEERED TO THE LEFT TO AVOID HITTING A DEER. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #10684287 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 491,119 milesCaldwell, IDCrash
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
HAD AN INCIDENT TODAY WHERE MY RX-8 HAD BEEN T-BONED AT AN INTERSECTION. MY SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY THOUGH. I HIT MY HEAD AGAINST THE INTERIOR DOORWELL AND HAVE A BIT OF WHIP-LASH. THEY HIT THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE HARD ENOUGH TO MAKE IT SO MY DOOR DOESN'T OPEN ANY LONGER AND IN-FACT IT'S PUSHED UP A BIT FROM WHERE IT IS SUPPOSE TO SIT. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS A 1996 GEO METRO.
NHTSA complaint #10261845 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Atlanta, GACrash2 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AFTER FRONT AND SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENT RESULTING IN SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE (VEHICLE MIGHT BE TOTALED). SPEED AT IMPACT WAS APPROXIMATELY 40 TO 60 MPG RESULTING IN INJURY TO DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
NHTSA complaint #10244412 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Chandler, AZ
AIR BAGS
See attached document for complaint
NHTSA complaint #11549803 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plymouth, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Part associated with recall 1017E has failed due to improper installation.
NHTSA complaint #11476049 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hutchinson, KS
STEERING
My cars steering will loosen up and stiffen up randomly also the traction control will randomly engage and the tire pressure lights and another light
NHTSA complaint #11421597 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hutchinson, KS
SERVICE BRAKES
My cars steering will loosen up and stiffen up randomly also the traction control will randomly engage and the tire pressure lights and another light
NHTSA complaint #11421597 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Corpus Christi, TX
POWER TRAIN
The steering wheel sometimes its hard to control sometimes its normal and when going fast the steering is so loose like there's a gaps that you need your two hands on the steering all time and the weels Weigel at high speed 60mph. its hard drive the car on the freeway And everyday use i already spend $2800 at the dealership get fix but never get fix The car no accident to be like that. Car has 80k mileage
NHTSA complaint #11421371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Corpus Christi, TX
STEERING
The steering wheel sometimes its hard to control sometimes its normal and when going fast the steering is so loose like there's a gaps that you need your two hands on the steering all time and the weels Weigel at high speed 60mph. its hard drive the car on the freeway And everyday use i already spend $2800 at the dealership get fix but never get fix The car no accident to be like that. Car has 80k mileage
NHTSA complaint #11421371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 74,000 milesWeare, NHFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FUEL LEAK AT GAS TANK AREA CAUSED MASSIVE FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11405308 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,200 milesOrange, TX
POWER TRAIN
THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY BRACKET BREAKS AT THE SPOTWELDS WHICH ALSO BREAKS THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER AND LUKILY THIS BROKE WHILE STARTING THE CAR
NHTSA complaint #11267976 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,200 milesOrange, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY BRACKET BREAKS AT THE SPOTWELDS WHICH ALSO BREAKS THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER AND LUKILY THIS BROKE WHILE STARTING THE CAR
NHTSA complaint #11267976 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,325 milesSevern, MD
ENGINE
OIL COOLER HOSES RUST OUT AT FITTINGS AND LEAK OIL UNCONTROLLABLY. ONE SEARCH OF ANY RX8 FORUM AND YOU WILL FIND ALL YEARS ARE EFFECTED.
NHTSA complaint #11196800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesMelbourne, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 MAZDA RX-8. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE JUNK YARD. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION AND SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, PELVIC, AND RIBS. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11186152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesCamp Springs, MD
STEERING
MY STEERING WHEEL TURNS ON ITS OWN WHILE IN MOTION ON THE BELTWAY AND SOMETIMES IT DIFFICULT TO STEER AT ALL WHILE IN MOTION IN TRAFFIC. I PURCHASED NEW TIRES THINKING THAT WOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM BUT IT DIDN'T.
NHTSA complaint #11176448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesOwensboro, KY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TAKATA RECALL MAKING A COMPLAINT ABOUT NOT DOING RECALL IN A TIMELY MANOR
NHTSA complaint #11156539 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesOwensboro, KY
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TAKATA RECALL MAKING A COMPLAINT ABOUT NOT DOING RECALL IN A TIMELY MANOR
NHTSA complaint #11156539 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesFairfield, CA
POWER TRAIN
CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET BROKEN UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. I WENT TO PUSH THE CLUTCH IN TO DOWNSHIFT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS TO OVER TAKE A SLOWER VEHICLE AND IT SNAPPED WITH AN AUDIBLE "POP" AND I COULDNT SHIFT INTO THE LOWER GEAR AND MY RPMS, WENT TO IDLE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. HAD IT BROKEN AT A DIFFERENT TIME, I COULD HAVE BEEN LOCKED INTO A CERTAIN GEAR AND HA TO BREAK FAST OR CRASH RISKING THE LIVES OF MY OCCUPANTS AND THE OCCUPANTS OF ANOTHER VEHICLE
NHTSA complaint #11109969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesFairfield, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET BROKEN UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. I WENT TO PUSH THE CLUTCH IN TO DOWNSHIFT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS TO OVER TAKE A SLOWER VEHICLE AND IT SNAPPED WITH AN AUDIBLE "POP" AND I COULDNT SHIFT INTO THE LOWER GEAR AND MY RPMS, WENT TO IDLE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. HAD IT BROKEN AT A DIFFERENT TIME, I COULD HAVE BEEN LOCKED INTO A CERTAIN GEAR AND HA TO BREAK FAST OR CRASH RISKING THE LIVES OF MY OCCUPANTS AND THE OCCUPANTS OF ANOTHER VEHICLE
NHTSA complaint #11109969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesFairfield, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET BROKEN UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. I WENT TO PUSH THE CLUTCH IN TO DOWNSHIFT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS TO OVER TAKE A SLOWER VEHICLE AND IT SNAPPED WITH AN AUDIBLE "POP" AND I COULDNT SHIFT INTO THE LOWER GEAR AND MY RPMS, WENT TO IDLE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. HAD IT BROKEN AT A DIFFERENT TIME, I COULD HAVE BEEN LOCKED INTO A CERTAIN GEAR AND HA TO BREAK FAST OR CRASH RISKING THE LIVES OF MY OCCUPANTS AND THE OCCUPANTS OF ANOTHER VEHICLE
NHTSA complaint #11109969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,000 milesColumbia, MO
STEERING
I HAD MANY RECALLS DONE LAST YEAR. NOW, TODAY, OLIVER AT MAZDA CORPORATE SAID THAT JOE MACHENS DEALERSHIPS AREN'T EQUIPPED TO HAVE DONE THE WORK PROPERLY. RECALLS: 16V793, 17V-354 & 355, FRONT END STEARING FROM INAPPROPRIATE CAULKING OF BALL JOINT , ENGINE REPLACED TWICE, OIL MIXING WITH COOLANT, AGAIN, AND NOW MY ALARM GOES OFF AS SOON AS I START IT. JOE MACHENS TOLD ME TO REMOVE THE BATTERY. A NEW LITHIUM BATTERY IS BEING DEVELOPED BY MAZDA BECAUSE ROTARY ENGINES CAN'T USE A REGULAR BATTERY. THEY HAD MY CAR FOR SIX WEEKS LAST YEAR, AUGUST, AND KEPT YELLING THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE NEW, CORRECT PARTS. MY STEARING IS DIFFICULT AT TIMES AND THEY NEVER TOLD ME ABOUT THE RECALL CONCERNING THIS. THE SEALS DETERIORATED MAKING ISSUES. NOW THEY ARE MAKING NEW GASKETS, RINGS, ETC. TO BE HEAT RESISTANT. THEY ARE FIGHTING ME, AGAIN, WHILE THEY HAVE ADMITTED MY CAR NEEDS PROPER FIXING WITH PROPER PARTS FROM INAPPROPRIATE WORK DONE LAST YEAR. ONE CORPORATE WORKER SAID MAYBE A NEW ENGINE SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE WITH PROPER PARTS. YET NOT AT A DEALERSHIP, AT A MECHANICAL SHOP THAT KNOWS HOW TO WORK ON ROTORY ENGINES. MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY LOT. I HAD MY OIL CHECKED TO HAVE FLUIDS CHANGED WITH VALVOLINE BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFER FOR 150,000 MILES ON ENGINE IF USING THEIR OIL. I COULDN'T GO FORWARD WITH THIS BECAUSE OF THE SAME ISSUES . OIL FOAMY, ALARM GOES OFF, FAULTY LIGHT THEY KNEW ABOUT ALSO. IT WORKED BEFORE THEY DID RECALL WORK ON IT. IT IS NOT SAFE FOR FIRE HAZARD, STEARING DIFFICULTY, GOES THROUGH A LOT OF OIL SINCE THEY WORKED ON IT. IGNITION SWITCH RECALL THEY NEVER DID. WERE SUPPOSED TO CONTACT ME WHEN PARTS ARRIVED. I WILL NEED TO FAX YOU PAPERWORK. MANY PAGES. ALSO SHOWS HOW THEY X'D OUT ONE RECALL CONCERNING GASKETS. I COULDN'T CHECK THE BOXES AS I WISHED TO REPORT.
NHTSA complaint #11091262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,000 milesColumbia, MO
SUSPENSION
I HAD MANY RECALLS DONE LAST YEAR. NOW, TODAY, OLIVER AT MAZDA CORPORATE SAID THAT JOE MACHENS DEALERSHIPS AREN'T EQUIPPED TO HAVE DONE THE WORK PROPERLY. RECALLS: 16V793, 17V-354 & 355, FRONT END STEARING FROM INAPPROPRIATE CAULKING OF BALL JOINT , ENGINE REPLACED TWICE, OIL MIXING WITH COOLANT, AGAIN, AND NOW MY ALARM GOES OFF AS SOON AS I START IT. JOE MACHENS TOLD ME TO REMOVE THE BATTERY. A NEW LITHIUM BATTERY IS BEING DEVELOPED BY MAZDA BECAUSE ROTARY ENGINES CAN'T USE A REGULAR BATTERY. THEY HAD MY CAR FOR SIX WEEKS LAST YEAR, AUGUST, AND KEPT YELLING THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE NEW, CORRECT PARTS. MY STEARING IS DIFFICULT AT TIMES AND THEY NEVER TOLD ME ABOUT THE RECALL CONCERNING THIS. THE SEALS DETERIORATED MAKING ISSUES. NOW THEY ARE MAKING NEW GASKETS, RINGS, ETC. TO BE HEAT RESISTANT. THEY ARE FIGHTING ME, AGAIN, WHILE THEY HAVE ADMITTED MY CAR NEEDS PROPER FIXING WITH PROPER PARTS FROM INAPPROPRIATE WORK DONE LAST YEAR. ONE CORPORATE WORKER SAID MAYBE A NEW ENGINE SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE WITH PROPER PARTS. YET NOT AT A DEALERSHIP, AT A MECHANICAL SHOP THAT KNOWS HOW TO WORK ON ROTORY ENGINES. MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY LOT. I HAD MY OIL CHECKED TO HAVE FLUIDS CHANGED WITH VALVOLINE BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFER FOR 150,000 MILES ON ENGINE IF USING THEIR OIL. I COULDN'T GO FORWARD WITH THIS BECAUSE OF THE SAME ISSUES . OIL FOAMY, ALARM GOES OFF, FAULTY LIGHT THEY KNEW ABOUT ALSO. IT WORKED BEFORE THEY DID RECALL WORK ON IT. IT IS NOT SAFE FOR FIRE HAZARD, STEARING DIFFICULTY, GOES THROUGH A LOT OF OIL SINCE THEY WORKED ON IT. IGNITION SWITCH RECALL THEY NEVER DID. WERE SUPPOSED TO CONTACT ME WHEN PARTS ARRIVED. I WILL NEED TO FAX YOU PAPERWORK. MANY PAGES. ALSO SHOWS HOW THEY X'D OUT ONE RECALL CONCERNING GASKETS. I COULDN'T CHECK THE BOXES AS I WISHED TO REPORT.
NHTSA complaint #11091262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,000 milesColumbia, MO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I HAD MANY RECALLS DONE LAST YEAR. NOW, TODAY, OLIVER AT MAZDA CORPORATE SAID THAT JOE MACHENS DEALERSHIPS AREN'T EQUIPPED TO HAVE DONE THE WORK PROPERLY. RECALLS: 16V793, 17V-354 & 355, FRONT END STEARING FROM INAPPROPRIATE CAULKING OF BALL JOINT , ENGINE REPLACED TWICE, OIL MIXING WITH COOLANT, AGAIN, AND NOW MY ALARM GOES OFF AS SOON AS I START IT. JOE MACHENS TOLD ME TO REMOVE THE BATTERY. A NEW LITHIUM BATTERY IS BEING DEVELOPED BY MAZDA BECAUSE ROTARY ENGINES CAN'T USE A REGULAR BATTERY. THEY HAD MY CAR FOR SIX WEEKS LAST YEAR, AUGUST, AND KEPT YELLING THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE NEW, CORRECT PARTS. MY STEARING IS DIFFICULT AT TIMES AND THEY NEVER TOLD ME ABOUT THE RECALL CONCERNING THIS. THE SEALS DETERIORATED MAKING ISSUES. NOW THEY ARE MAKING NEW GASKETS, RINGS, ETC. TO BE HEAT RESISTANT. THEY ARE FIGHTING ME, AGAIN, WHILE THEY HAVE ADMITTED MY CAR NEEDS PROPER FIXING WITH PROPER PARTS FROM INAPPROPRIATE WORK DONE LAST YEAR. ONE CORPORATE WORKER SAID MAYBE A NEW ENGINE SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE WITH PROPER PARTS. YET NOT AT A DEALERSHIP, AT A MECHANICAL SHOP THAT KNOWS HOW TO WORK ON ROTORY ENGINES. MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY LOT. I HAD MY OIL CHECKED TO HAVE FLUIDS CHANGED WITH VALVOLINE BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFER FOR 150,000 MILES ON ENGINE IF USING THEIR OIL. I COULDN'T GO FORWARD WITH THIS BECAUSE OF THE SAME ISSUES . OIL FOAMY, ALARM GOES OFF, FAULTY LIGHT THEY KNEW ABOUT ALSO. IT WORKED BEFORE THEY DID RECALL WORK ON IT. IT IS NOT SAFE FOR FIRE HAZARD, STEARING DIFFICULTY, GOES THROUGH A LOT OF OIL SINCE THEY WORKED ON IT. IGNITION SWITCH RECALL THEY NEVER DID. WERE SUPPOSED TO CONTACT ME WHEN PARTS ARRIVED. I WILL NEED TO FAX YOU PAPERWORK. MANY PAGES. ALSO SHOWS HOW THEY X'D OUT ONE RECALL CONCERNING GASKETS. I COULDN'T CHECK THE BOXES AS I WISHED TO REPORT.
NHTSA complaint #11091262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,000 milesColumbia, SC
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 MAZDA RX-8. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE POWER STEERING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AS THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF AND THEN RESTARTED APPROXIMATELY 20 TIMES BEFORE THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO REGAIN FULL CONTROL. THE DEALER (MIDLANDS MAZDA, 655 BROAD RIVER RD, COLUMBIA, SC 29210) STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS KNOWN FOR HAVING A BALL JOINT ISSUE AND IT COULD POSSIBLY BE DUE TO THE RACK AND PINION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
NHTSA complaint #11074188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 87,466 milesTampa, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 MAZDA RX-8. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A FUEL ODOR EMITTED THROUGH THE VENTS OF THE VEHICLE. THE FUEL ODOR WAS ALL AROUND THE VEHICLE WHILE PARKED AND FUEL LEAKED UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO KUHN MAZDA (3934 W KENNEDY BLVD, TAMPA, FL 33609, PHONE: (877) 225-9956), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE TAKEN DOWN TO FIND WHERE THE FAILURE WAS COMING FROM AND THERE WOULD BE A FEE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO THE DIAGNOSTIC AND REPAIR FEES. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V793000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,466.
NHTSA complaint #11055247 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oronoco, MN
WHEELS
THE EXTERNAL OIL LINES AND CONNECTION FITTINGS FOR THE ROTORY ENGINE LUBRICATION POINTS AND COOLING HAVE CORRODED AWAY FORM ROAD SALT IN MINNESOTA. DRIVING CAUSES ENGINE OIL TO BE SPRAYED ON FRONT WHEEL AND BRAKES CAUSING FRONT BRAKE FAILURE AND POSSIBLE ENGINE FIRE PROBLEMS. THE CORROSION WAS SO BAD THAT EACH ATTEMPT TO FIX AN OIL LEAK ENDED UP BRAKING MORE CORRODED OIL FITTINGS OFF. THE TOTAL REPAIR IN 2017 ENDED BEING OVER $1,000 DOLLARS FOR JUST PARTS PLUS LABOR. MAZDA HAS PREVIOUSLY PAID TO FIX ALL MAZDA RX-8S SOLD TO PEOPLE IN CANADA BECAUSE OF ROAD SALT CORROSION FAILURES OF THESE SAME OIL LINES. WHY DOESN'T THE USA HAVE CONSUMER PROTECTION LIKE CANADIAN CITIZENS HAVE! I PAID A REPAIR SHOP BY ME $1,037.81 FOR THE REPAIRS. THE MECHANIC LOST ABOUT ANOTHER $1,000 IN AFTER MARKET FITTINGS AND HOSES PLUS TIME, BUT EACH FIX BROKE MORE FITTINGS. HE FINALLY BOUGHT ALL NEW FACTORY PARTS AND SOLD THEM TO ME FOR COST AND ONLY CHARGED US FOR ABOUT 2 HOURS LABOR. TONY BECK,S AUTO REPAIR IN PINEISLAND MN JUST COULDN'T CHARGE ANYONE WHAT IT REALLY COST HIM. US RX-8 OWNERS ARE GETTING SCREWED BY YOU NOT RECALLING THIS OIL LINE FAILURE PROBLEM. THESE OIL LINES AND FITTINGS GO ALL AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENGINE AND ARE HIGH PRESSURE 1/2 INCH ID HYDRAULIC LINES. HOW CAN OIL SPRAYING FRONT DISC BRAKES AND ENGINE COMPARTMENT NOT BE A SAFETY ISSUE! STEVE W. FROM MINNESOTA, WE HAVE LOTS OF ROAD SALT JUST LIKE CANADA, THAT'S WHY THE I-35 BRIDGE FELL DOWN. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH THESE SALT CORROSION CAUSED OIL LEAKS! CAUSED MASSIVE OIL LEAKS THAT CAN ALLOW ENGINE
NHTSA complaint #11053886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oronoco, MN
ENGINE
THE EXTERNAL OIL LINES AND CONNECTION FITTINGS FOR THE ROTORY ENGINE LUBRICATION POINTS AND COOLING HAVE CORRODED AWAY FORM ROAD SALT IN MINNESOTA. DRIVING CAUSES ENGINE OIL TO BE SPRAYED ON FRONT WHEEL AND BRAKES CAUSING FRONT BRAKE FAILURE AND POSSIBLE ENGINE FIRE PROBLEMS. THE CORROSION WAS SO BAD THAT EACH ATTEMPT TO FIX AN OIL LEAK ENDED UP BRAKING MORE CORRODED OIL FITTINGS OFF. THE TOTAL REPAIR IN 2017 ENDED BEING OVER $1,000 DOLLARS FOR JUST PARTS PLUS LABOR. MAZDA HAS PREVIOUSLY PAID TO FIX ALL MAZDA RX-8S SOLD TO PEOPLE IN CANADA BECAUSE OF ROAD SALT CORROSION FAILURES OF THESE SAME OIL LINES. WHY DOESN'T THE USA HAVE CONSUMER PROTECTION LIKE CANADIAN CITIZENS HAVE! I PAID A REPAIR SHOP BY ME $1,037.81 FOR THE REPAIRS. THE MECHANIC LOST ABOUT ANOTHER $1,000 IN AFTER MARKET FITTINGS AND HOSES PLUS TIME, BUT EACH FIX BROKE MORE FITTINGS. HE FINALLY BOUGHT ALL NEW FACTORY PARTS AND SOLD THEM TO ME FOR COST AND ONLY CHARGED US FOR ABOUT 2 HOURS LABOR. TONY BECK,S AUTO REPAIR IN PINEISLAND MN JUST COULDN'T CHARGE ANYONE WHAT IT REALLY COST HIM. US RX-8 OWNERS ARE GETTING SCREWED BY YOU NOT RECALLING THIS OIL LINE FAILURE PROBLEM. THESE OIL LINES AND FITTINGS GO ALL AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENGINE AND ARE HIGH PRESSURE 1/2 INCH ID HYDRAULIC LINES. HOW CAN OIL SPRAYING FRONT DISC BRAKES AND ENGINE COMPARTMENT NOT BE A SAFETY ISSUE! STEVE W. FROM MINNESOTA, WE HAVE LOTS OF ROAD SALT JUST LIKE CANADA, THAT'S WHY THE I-35 BRIDGE FELL DOWN. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH THESE SALT CORROSION CAUSED OIL LEAKS! CAUSED MASSIVE OIL LEAKS THAT CAN ALLOW ENGINE
NHTSA complaint #11053886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oronoco, MN
SERVICE BRAKES
THE EXTERNAL OIL LINES AND CONNECTION FITTINGS FOR THE ROTORY ENGINE LUBRICATION POINTS AND COOLING HAVE CORRODED AWAY FORM ROAD SALT IN MINNESOTA. DRIVING CAUSES ENGINE OIL TO BE SPRAYED ON FRONT WHEEL AND BRAKES CAUSING FRONT BRAKE FAILURE AND POSSIBLE ENGINE FIRE PROBLEMS. THE CORROSION WAS SO BAD THAT EACH ATTEMPT TO FIX AN OIL LEAK ENDED UP BRAKING MORE CORRODED OIL FITTINGS OFF. THE TOTAL REPAIR IN 2017 ENDED BEING OVER $1,000 DOLLARS FOR JUST PARTS PLUS LABOR. MAZDA HAS PREVIOUSLY PAID TO FIX ALL MAZDA RX-8S SOLD TO PEOPLE IN CANADA BECAUSE OF ROAD SALT CORROSION FAILURES OF THESE SAME OIL LINES. WHY DOESN'T THE USA HAVE CONSUMER PROTECTION LIKE CANADIAN CITIZENS HAVE! I PAID A REPAIR SHOP BY ME $1,037.81 FOR THE REPAIRS. THE MECHANIC LOST ABOUT ANOTHER $1,000 IN AFTER MARKET FITTINGS AND HOSES PLUS TIME, BUT EACH FIX BROKE MORE FITTINGS. HE FINALLY BOUGHT ALL NEW FACTORY PARTS AND SOLD THEM TO ME FOR COST AND ONLY CHARGED US FOR ABOUT 2 HOURS LABOR. TONY BECK,S AUTO REPAIR IN PINEISLAND MN JUST COULDN'T CHARGE ANYONE WHAT IT REALLY COST HIM. US RX-8 OWNERS ARE GETTING SCREWED BY YOU NOT RECALLING THIS OIL LINE FAILURE PROBLEM. THESE OIL LINES AND FITTINGS GO ALL AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENGINE AND ARE HIGH PRESSURE 1/2 INCH ID HYDRAULIC LINES. HOW CAN OIL SPRAYING FRONT DISC BRAKES AND ENGINE COMPARTMENT NOT BE A SAFETY ISSUE! STEVE W. FROM MINNESOTA, WE HAVE LOTS OF ROAD SALT JUST LIKE CANADA, THAT'S WHY THE I-35 BRIDGE FELL DOWN. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH THESE SALT CORROSION CAUSED OIL LEAKS! CAUSED MASSIVE OIL LEAKS THAT CAN ALLOW ENGINE
NHTSA complaint #11053886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
