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Mazda · Known Issues

2006 Mazda RX-8 Problems: 9 Known Issues

2006 model year · 23,200+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 23,200+ owner reports, the 2006 Mazda RX-8 has 9 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss ($2,500-$5,000 repair), Catalytic Converter Clogging ($500-$1,500 repair), Oil Metering Pump (OMP) Failure ($200-$600 repair) and Clutch Pedal Bracket Failure (NHTSA PE09045). The most commonly reported issue is Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss with 8,000 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • RX-8 Engine4
  • RX-8 Fuel System1
  • RX-8 Transmission1
  • RX-8 Electrical3
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine4
  • Fuel System1
  • Transmission1
  • Electrical3
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ

All 9 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201220112010200920082007200620052004
Community reported
8,000 owners

On the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 1.3L 13B-MSP Renesis, the Renesis rotary engine in the RX-8 is infamous for apex seal wear and failure, leading to catastrophic compression loss. Apex seals maintain the combustion chamber seal between the rotor and housing. Heat, carbon deposits, and inadequate lubrication cause seals to wear, chip, or break. Compression testing below 6.5 kg/cm2 indicates rebuild is needed. This is the single most common and feared RX-8 issue.

Common Symptoms

  • Hard starting, especially when warm (hot start failure)
  • Progressive loss of power over time
  • Excessive exhaust smoke (white or blue)
  • Failed compression test (below 6.5 kg/cm2 on any face)
  • Engine floods easily and will not restart

How to Fix

Engine rebuild with new apex seals, side seals, corner seals, and rotor housings if scored. Rebuild by a rotary specialist is essential - general mechanics often lack the expertise. Prevention: premix 2-stroke oil with fuel (1 oz per gallon), rev the engine to redline regularly to keep seals seated, never shut off a warm engine without letting it idle for 30 seconds.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Rotarytronics rotary compression tester
    OEMRotarytronics Rotary Compression Tester

    Rotary-specific compression measurement before an engine rebuild decision Fitment/availability: The direct manufacturer product page showed a $199.99 base price and is designed to report individual rotary chamber pulses.

    Rotarytronics
  • Atkins Rotary ARE64 2004-2011 RX-8 rotor/seal kit
    OEMAtkins Rotary ARE64

    Configurable internal seal kit only after specialist teardown measurements Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies ARE64 for 2004-2008 and 2009-2011 RX-8 and provides selectable apex/corner-seal options; it showed $67…

    Atkins Rotary

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipRev to redline daily to keep apex seals properly seated - babying a rotary kills it faster
  • TipCompression test every 15,000 miles to monitor seal health - RX8Club.com apex seal FAQ
Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $5,000

Research This Issue

Based on 8,000 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified8,000 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
3,200 owners

On the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 1.3L 13B-MSP Renesis, the oil metering pump (OMP) injects oil into the combustion chambers to lubricate the apex seals and rotor housings. When the OMP fails or its lines clog, the engine loses critical internal lubrication, leading to accelerated apex seal wear and eventual engine failure. OMP failure is often silent with no warning lights until compression loss is detected.

Common Symptoms

  • Increased engine noise from rotor housings
  • Accelerated apex seal wear on compression test
  • Oil consumption decreases (less oil being injected)
  • No warning light - failure is often undetected until compression check

How to Fix

Inspect and replace OMP and oil metering lines during any engine service. Many rotary specialists recommend supplemental premix (2-stroke oil added to fuel) as insurance against OMP failure. Replace OMP every 60,000-80,000 miles as preventive maintenance.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda N3H1-14-600C oil metering pump
    OEMMazda N3H1-14-600C

    Series 1 OMP replacement after electrical/delivery testing confirms pump failure Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies genuine Mazda N3H1-14-600C for 2004-2008 RX-8 and showed $1,453.70 with Add to Cart.

    Mazdatrix
  • Atkins Rotary ARE109 four-line oil-metering line kit
    OEMAtkins Rotary ARE109

    Complete 2004-2008 oil-metering line branch when the lines leak, crack or obstruct delivery Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies ARE109 for 2004-2008 RX-8, includes all four lines, and showed $306.50 with Add to Ca…

    Atkins Rotary
  • Genuine Mazda N3H1-14-604 OMP-to-engine O-ring
    OEMMazda N3H1-14-604

    Pump mounting seal when the 2004-2008 OMP is removed or this joint leaks Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies N3H1-14-604 for the 2004-on RX-8 pump-to-engine joint and showed $10.27.

    Mazdatrix

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipReplace OMP lines when replacing pump - they become brittle and crack with age
  • TipPremixing oil into fuel provides redundant lubrication regardless of OMP health - RX8Club.com OMP thread
Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

Based on 3,200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified3,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
7,500 owners

On the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 1.3L 13B-MSP Renesis, the RX-8 rotary engine is extremely prone to flooding when the engine is shut off before reaching full operating temperature. Excess fuel washes past the apex seals and pools in the combustion chambers, preventing the engine from starting. This is a design characteristic of the Renesis engine's fuel injection and ignition system. Repeated flooding can accelerate apex seal wear.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine cranks but will not start after a short drive
  • Strong fuel smell from exhaust while cranking
  • Spark plugs are wet with fuel when removed
  • More common in cold weather or after short trips

How to Fix

Deflood procedure: hold accelerator to the floor while cranking for 10-15 seconds (cuts fuel injection). If this fails, remove and dry spark plugs, then retry. Prevention: always allow the engine to reach full operating temperature before shutting off. Never start the engine for brief periods. Replace spark plugs (NGK RE7C-L) every 15,000-20,000 miles.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda/NGK N3Y3-18-S30-9U four-plug set
    OEMMazda N3Y3-18-S30-9U / NGK 6700 x2 and 6701 x2

    Position-correct plug replacement when flooding has fouled plugs or service/testing justifies replacement Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies the set for 2004-2011 RX-8 with two NGK RE7C-L leading plugs (6700) and…

    Mazdatrix

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipNEVER shut off the engine before it reaches full operating temperature - this is the #1 cause of flooding
  • TipDeflood procedure: floor the accelerator while cranking for 10-15 seconds (full throttle cuts fuel)
  • TipCarry a 10mm socket to remove spark plugs for manual deflooding in emergencies - RX8Club.com flooding FAQ
Typical repair cost:$0 - $100

Research This Issue

Based on 7,500 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified7,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor, carbon accumulates on the Secondary Shutter Valve (SSV) shaft and swirl/auxiliary port valves in the intake manifold, causing the SSV to stick (typically open) since it only actuates at higher RPM. This is a documented TSB-level complaint (Mazda TSB 01-019/08) producing hesitation and lack of power, often eventually setting code P2070; some cars also develop an idle rattle/chatter from the intake manifold. It is aggravated by low-RPM driving that never fully exercises the valves.

Common Symptoms

  • Hesitation under acceleration
  • Lack of power, especially at higher RPM
  • Rough or inconsistent throttle response
  • Rattle/chatter from intake manifold at idle
  • Reduced top-end performance

How to Fix

Remove the upper intake manifold and clean the SSV shaft and swirl valves of carbon; per the TSB, install the updated SSV actuator (stronger actuator force) and gaskets. Preventively, run the engine to higher RPM regularly to keep the valves free.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda N3H5-20-160F updated secondary shutter valve
    OEMMazda N3H5-20-160F

    Updated SSV assembly after TSB applicability and mechanical failure are confirmed Fitment/availability: The direct product page identifies genuine Mazda N3H5-20-160F, showed In Stock, $188.99 and a 5-7-business-day ship estimate.

    Tsurugi Motors
  • Genuine Mazda N3H4-20-155A SSV gasket
    OEMMazda N3H4-20-155A

    Required replacement gasket when the SSV is removed Fitment/availability: The direct specialist page identifies N3H4-20-155A for 2004-2011 RX-8 13B-MSP, showed $12.50 and Add to Cart. Follow the TSB/workshop-manual removal and cleaning p…

    Atkins Rotary

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
Community reported
4,500 owners

On the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 1.3L 13B-MSP Renesis, the RX-8 catalytic converter clogs prematurely due to the rotary engine's naturally higher oil and fuel consumption. Unburned fuel and oil residue accumulate in the catalyst substrate, restricting exhaust flow. A clogged cat causes power loss, overheating, and can destroy the engine if backpressure becomes severe. Catalytic converter failure is often a secondary symptom of apex seal wear.

Common Symptoms

  • Significant power loss at higher RPM
  • Exhaust smells like sulfur (rotten eggs)
  • Engine overheating due to restricted exhaust flow
  • Check engine light with P0420/P0421 catalyst efficiency codes
  • Glowing catalytic converter visible at night (extreme cases)

How to Fix

Replace catalytic converter. If apex seals are worn (causing excess oil burning), rebuild the engine first or the new cat will clog again. Some owners use high-flow aftermarket cats or test pipes for track use. Ensure O2 sensors are replaced at the same time if aged.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • MagnaFlow 49150 OEM-grade Federal/EPA direct-fit catalytic converter
    OEMMagnaFlow 49150

    Federal-emissions direct-fit converter after restriction/failure and root cause are confirmed Fitment/availability: The inspected direct product page identifies part 49150 as specific direct-fit for 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8, interchanging wi…

    AutoZone

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipAddress apex seal wear FIRST - a worn engine will destroy a new cat quickly
  • TipPremixing 2-stroke oil reduces unburned fuel in exhaust, extending cat life - RX8Club.com exhaust FAQ
Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 4,500 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified4,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2004-2009 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor, nHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE09-045 investigated clutch-pedal-bracket failures on manual-transmission 2004-2006 RX-8 vehicles. Mazda told ODI that an improper fastener attachment sequence could distort the bracket and create stress beyond its wear-out limit; warning could include noise and increasing difficulty shifting before fracture. Mazda extended clutch-pedal-assembly warranty coverage to 8 years/100,000 miles for 2004-2009 RX-8 vehicles. ODI closed the investigation without a recall and without identifying a safety-related defect trend.

Common Symptoms

  • clutch-pedal structural noise or movement
  • increasing difficulty engaging a gear
  • bracket crack or mounting-point failure confirmed by inspection

How to Fix

If the pedal shifts position, makes structural noise or no longer disengages the clutch, stop driving and inspect both bracket mounting points, attachment integrity and the complete pedal/hydraulic system. Check service history for the Mazda owner-notification repair. Do not buy a pedal assembly, bracket or reinforcement from this page; the exact failure, prior repair and fitment must be confirmed.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor, the RX-8 left the factory with an inadequate ~305 CCA battery, and the car draws a relatively high key-off parasitic current from the keyless/security and background systems. Cars that sit for a week or so routinely go flat, which then leaves too little power to crank the rotary quickly and often results in a flooded, no-start engine. A weak alternator or battery worsens the cycle.

Common Symptoms

  • Battery goes flat after sitting
  • Slow crank / no crank
  • Repeated jump-starts needed
  • Flooded engine after weak-battery start attempt
  • Dim lights / electrical gremlins

How to Fix

Replace with a higher-capacity battery (many owners fit a ~640 CCA unit of the same case dimensions), use a battery tender when parked, and diagnose/repair any abnormal parasitic draw or a failing alternator.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Duralast Gold 35-DLG Group 35 640-CCA battery
    OEMDuralast Gold 35-DLG

    Mazda-specification starting-battery branch after testing confirms replacement is required Fitment/availability: The inspected RX-8 Group 35 catalog lists Duralast Gold 35-DLG at 640 CCA with Add to Cart; Mazda bulletin RF-14-11 specifie…

    AutoZone
  • NOCO GENIUS1 1-amp smart battery maintainer
    OEMNOCO GENIUS1

    Long-term maintenance charging for a correctly tested battery while the car is stored Fitment/availability: The direct manufacturer page identifies GENIUS1 as a 6/12-volt 1-amp charger/maintainer for flooded, AGM and other supported chem…

    NOCO

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor, the Renesis rotary uses a coil-near-plug ignition (grouped coils feeding plug wires) with two spark plugs per rotor (leading and trailing) that fire every engine revolution rather than every other one, so coils and plugs wear far faster than on a piston engine. Weak factory coils commonly degrade around 30,000 miles, producing misfires, rough idle, hesitation and power loss. Because unburned fuel then dumps into the catalytic converter, ignoring failing coils accelerates cat clogging.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine misfire
  • Rough idle
  • Hesitation under acceleration
  • Loss of power
  • Stalling
  • Check engine light
  • Arcing/snapping sound under hood

How to Fix

Replace ignition coils, plug wires and spark plugs as a set on a roughly 30,000-mile interval; many owners upgrade to aftermarket high-output coils for longer life. Diagnose with misfire codes P0300-P0304 before replacing.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda N3H1-18-100B-9U ignition coil
    OEMMazda N3H1-18-100B-9U

    Revised genuine replacement ignition coil; quantity four for a complete set Fitment/availability: The live specialist catalog identifies N3H1-18-100B-9U for 2004-2011 RX-8, price per coil and Add to Cart. The RX-8 uses four coils, so sel…

    Mazdatrix
  • NGK 4858 RX-8 ignition wire set
    OEMNGK 4858

    Exact plug-wire set when age, resistance, terminals or insulation fail inspection Fitment/availability: The direct page identifies NGK 4858 for 2004-2011 RX-8, showed $55.88 and Add to Cart. Route and label leading/trailing positions exa…

    Mazdatrix
  • Genuine Mazda/NGK N3Y3-18-S30-9U four-plug set
    OEMMazda N3Y3-18-S30-9U / NGK 6700 x2 and 6701 x2

    Complete stock heat-range plug set with two leading and two trailing plugs Fitment/availability: The direct page identifies a four-plug set containing two NGK RE7C-L leading plugs (6700) and two RE9B-T trailing plugs (6701), showed $115.…

    Mazdatrix

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor, the RX-8 shipped with a marginal starter that struggles to crank the rotary fast enough for a reliable cold start, especially in cold weather when the ignition system is also weakest. Slow cranking compounds the rotary's tendency to flood on cold starts, and repeated long cranks can burn out the starter itself. Mazda revised the starter for later cars, but early 2004-2006 units are most affected and older starters still fail with age.

Common Symptoms

  • Slow cranking
  • Cranks but won't start when cold
  • Repeated start attempts needed
  • No-start after short drive without reaching operating temp
  • Clicking on start attempt

How to Fix

Replace with the updated higher-RPM starter motor and pair it with a healthy high-CCA battery and good ignition components to ensure fast cranking. If a cold start floods the engine, follow the flooded-engine clear procedure (pedal to the floor, crank 7-8 seconds).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda N3Z1-18-400 high-speed starter
    OEMMazda N3Z1-18-400

    Updated starter branch for manual-transmission RX-8 after electrical and compression testing Fitment/availability: The inspected live direct page identifies genuine Mazda N3Z1-18-400 for 2004-2008 RX-8 manual transmission only and descri…

    MazMart
  • Genuine Mazda N3Z2-18-400 high-speed starter
    OEMMazda N3Z2-18-400

    Updated starter branch for automatic-transmission RX-8 after electrical and compression testing Fitment/availability: The inspected live direct page identifies genuine Mazda N3Z2-18-400 for 2004-2008 RX-8 automatic transmission only and …

    MazMart
  • MCR 2.0-kW 18-tooth automatic RX-8 starter
    OEMMCR RX-8 automatic 2.0-kW / 18-tooth starter

    Confirm transmission and installed tooth/connector configuration before ordering

    Motor City Reman

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $700

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.

Campaign #21V74400024/09/2021

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV vehicles nationwide. Mazda is also recalling 2005-2006 MPV vehicles in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2004-2011 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-354 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mazda RX-8 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 23,200+ owner reports, the 2006 Mazda RX-8 has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss, Catalytic Converter Clogging, Oil Metering Pump (OMP) Failure. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mazda RX-8 reliable?

The 2006 Mazda RX-8 has 9 known issues documented across 23,200+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss and Catalytic Converter Clogging and Oil Metering Pump (OMP) Failure and Clutch Pedal Bracket Failure (NHTSA PE09045). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mazda RX-8 problems?

Repair costs for known Mazda RX-8 issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss, typically costs $2,500-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 Apex Seal Failure / Compression Loss?

The Renesis rotary engine in the RX-8 is infamous for apex seal wear and failure, leading to catastrophic compression loss. Apex seals maintain the combustion chamber seal between the rotor and housing. Heat, carbon deposits, and inadequate lubrication cause seals to wear, chip,… Repairs typically run $2,500-$5,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 Catalytic Converter Clogging?

The RX-8 catalytic converter clogs prematurely due to the rotary engine's naturally higher oil and fuel consumption. Unburned fuel and oil residue accumulate in the catalyst substrate, restricting exhaust flow. A clogged cat causes power loss, overheating, and can destroy the eng… Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 23,200+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #18V402000
15/06/2018

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Mazda RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under recall 18V-017 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #18V40300015/06/2018

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Mazda RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under recall 18V-716 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #19V48800024/06/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Mazda MPV vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2005-2009 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 17V-011 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #18V40400015/06/2018

+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 Oil Metering Pump (OMP) Failure?

The oil metering pump (OMP) injects oil into the combustion chambers to lubricate the apex seals and rotor housings. When the OMP fails or its lines clog, the engine loses critical internal lubrication, leading to accelerated apex seal wear and eventual engine failure. OMP failur… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2009 Mazda RX-8 Clutch Pedal Bracket Failure (NHTSA PE09045)?

NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE09-045 investigated clutch-pedal-bracket failures on manual-transmission 2004-2006 RX-8 vehicles. Mazda told ODI that an improper fastener attachment sequence could distort the bracket and create stress beyond its wear-out limit; warning could inclu… Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2012 Mazda RX-8 Engine Flooding on Cold Start?

The RX-8 rotary engine is extremely prone to flooding when the engine is shut off before reaching full operating temperature. Excess fuel washes past the apex seals and pools in the combustion chambers, preventing the engine from starting. This is a design characteristic of the R… Repairs typically run $0-$100. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8 Undersized Factory Battery and Parasitic Drain?

The RX-8 left the factory with an inadequate ~305 CCA battery, and the car draws a relatively high key-off parasitic current from the keyless/security and background systems. Cars that sit for a week or so routinely go flat, which then leaves too little power to crank the rotary… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8 Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Rapid Wear Causing Misfires?

The Renesis rotary uses a coil-near-plug ignition (grouped coils feeding plug wires) with two spark plugs per rotor (leading and trailing) that fire every engine revolution rather than every other one, so coils and plugs wear far faster than on a piston engine. Weak factory coils… Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 Weak Starter Motor and Hard Cold Starting?

The RX-8 shipped with a marginal starter that struggles to crank the rotary fast enough for a reliable cold start, especially in cold weather when the ignition system is also weakest. Slow cranking compounds the rotary's tendency to flood on cold starts, and repeated long cranks… Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 Secondary Shutter Valve (SSV) Carbon Buildup and Hesitation?

Carbon accumulates on the Secondary Shutter Valve (SSV) shaft and swirl/auxiliary port valves in the intake manifold, causing the SSV to stick (typically open) since it only actuates at higher RPM. This is a documented TSB-level complaint (Mazda TSB 01-019/08) producing hesitatio… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: medium.