What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (2004–2008) RX-8?

RX-8 owners have made 27 complaints about the 2004–2008 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 23rd out of 36 Mazda generations in overall reliability, with real engine and steering concerns.

Compare With Other RX-8 Generations

Common 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 Problems

Some of the worst issues 1st generation RX-8 owners have to deal with.

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

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What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (2004–2008) RX-8 Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 27 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 23rd in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 36 eligible generations.