Two problems related to engine clicking and tapping noises have been reported for the 2005 Mazda RX8. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The contact owns a 2005 Mazda RX-8. The vehicle has been taken to the dealer ten times. While driving 35 mph, the vehicle stalled and the check engine light illuminated. The vehicle also makes a popping sound. While driving 35 to 70 mph, the contact experienced failure with the motor and stated that oil is seeping into the inlet tubes. The mechanic stated that she was using the wrong fuel and recommended burning it out. The mechanic also stated that the vehicle should not have over 60,000 miles. The contact was informed that this failure is normal and there is a defect in the motors and oil in the inlet tube. The repair cost would be $6,000 for a new motor. The manufacturer refused to assist the contact with the failure. The failure began three months after the vehicle was purchased. The field representative at Mazda stated that he was unable to speak with the contact and referred her to someone at the Mazda corporate office. The contact has invoices. The # of cylinders and current and failure mileages were unknown.
I own a 2005 Mazda Rx8 6 speed. The vehicle has 14,000 miles. On 5/30/06 the engine began to stall, sputter and make a clicking noise at over 4500 rpm. I brought the vehicle into a nearby Mazda dealer. I was told by service personnel that 4 other Rx8's were currently in the shop due to the same problems. I was told that the problem is heat related and more prevalent in hot climates. Service personnel added that the ecu would need to be sent to Mazda to be reflashed. If that did not cure the problem the motor may need to be replaced. I called a Mazda dealer in las vegas in order to see if they were experiencing the same issues. They confirmed that they were. I confronted local management and asked if they were informing potential and/or new buyers about the motor problem. He stated no and added that he was not required to do so. The car was returned to me on 6/8/06 symptom free. On 6/12/06 the same problems returned and the car was returned to the dealer.