Two problems related to gasoline engine have been reported for the 2004 Mazda RX8. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I own a 2004 Mazda Rx8 with 67,900 miles. The entire engine needs to be replaced because of an internal fault failure. I am being charged 8,500 to have the engine replaced. I am very frustrated with a 3 year old car with mid mileage needing an engine replacement. I am a teacher and don't have the salary to replace a car every 3 years or at 67,900 miles. According to the dealer there is potential for fire.
I purchased my automatic Rx8 in late Jan. 2004. As I write this, I have averaged 14. 3 mpg with mixed driving conditions (city and highway) during my first 3000 miles. My worst tankful was 12. 3 mpg. Mazda north America refuses to address my issue, which my fuel economy is well below the estimated fuel economy on the sticker. Either there is something wrong with my Rx8 or Mazda has intentionally misrepresented the fuel economy of the Rx8.