Four problems related to other fuel system pump have been reported for the 2004 Mazda RX8. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Steering wheel violently shakes upon turning and now on straight-away driving. Has been smelling of excessive gas for over 4 years upon start up, despite dealer correcting recall issue with fuel pump discharge pipe.
Fuel pump nozzle is cracked allowing fuel to leak and fuel pressure to drop cause driveability problems and stalling. Mazda claims its the ring and gasket on their recall but it's the fuel pump cracking. My car started bucking and running erratically. Installed and would not restart for a short period of time. This has been an ongoing problem for roughly one year.
Vehicle had strong smell of raw gasoline fumes in the cabin and outside the car. Upon removing the rear seat to access the fuel pump for inspection, a pool of gasoline was found around the fuel pump and surrounding area to include the electrical wiring for the pump. It appears the leak occurs from a faulty plastic nipple on the fuel pump assembly that connects the pump to the main fuel line. A quick internet search uncovered this is not an isolated incident with the Mazda Rx8. The fire and safety hazard associated with this issue is immense. I would recommend a further review by the NHTSA to assess the severity and spectrum of the fuel pump issue in the Mazda Rx8.
The fuel line input nipple, on the fuel pump assembly, cracks and causes a leak. The fuel pump lock ring is not the problem and can be reused. Replacing the fuel pump assembly fixes the problem. It is very common on all 2004-2008 models.