2005 Mazda RX-8
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2005 Mazda RX-8. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
6 recalls name the 2005 Mazda RX-8. Newest first.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018. Mailing to the affected RX-8 owners began July 6, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: With the addition of the RX-8 vehicles, this recall fully supersedes recall 16V354.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018 for MPV vehicles. The recall began July 9, 2019 for RX-8 vehicles. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: With the addition of the RX-8 vehicles, this recall fully supersedes recall 17V-011.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2008 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began on September 12, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1417G. Note: This recall supersedes recall 15V-382.
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RX-8 vehicles. Heat from the engine and the exhaust may cause the main fuel pump pipe to crack.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the fuel pump pipe cracks, fuel may leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump filter kit, free of charge. The recall began on July 31, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1017E.
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RX-8 vehicles manufactured April 10, 2003, to February 18, 2008. The affected vehicles have fuel pump sealing rings that may deteriorate due to exposure to heat from the engine or exhaust pipe.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The deteriorated seals may leak fuel, which, in the presence of an ignition source, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump sealing ring set and add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began July 31, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0516J.
If certain passenger vehicles are parked and the engine IS operated at high rpm's for an excessive length of time, some of the parts around the exhaust system can melt and produce a variety of malfunctions. problems caused by the excessive heat build-up can range from inoperative oxygen sensor, neutral switch and back up lights, problems with the parking…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace parts. the recall began on august 30, 2005. owners may contact mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
Owner complaints
162 complaints6 involved a crash1 involved a fire4 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
See attached document for complaint
- Fuel/propulsion system
Part associated with recall 1017E has failed due to improper installation.
- Service brakes · Steering
My cars steering will loosen up and stiffen up randomly also the traction control will randomly engage and the tire pressure lights and another light
- Power train · Steering
The steering wheel sometimes its hard to control sometimes its normal and when going fast the steering is so loose like there's a gaps that you need your two hands on the steering all time and the weels Weigel at high speed 60mph. its hard drive the car on the freeway And everyday use i already spend $2800 at the dealership get fix but never get fix The car no accident to be like that. Car has 80k mileage
- Fuel/propulsion system
Fuel leak at gas tank area caused massive fire.
- Power train · Service brakes
The clutch pedal assembly bracket breaks at the spotwelds which also breaks the clutch master cylinder and lukily this broke while starting the car
- Engine
Oil cooler hoses rust out at fittings and leak oil uncontrollably. One search of any RX8 forum and you will find all years are effected.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving 55 mph, the vehicle was involved in a front end collision. The air bags did not deploy. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the junk yard. A police report was filed. the contact received medical attention and…
TL* the contact owned a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving 55 mph, the vehicle was involved in a front end collision. The air bags did not deploy. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the junk yard. A police report was filed. the contact received medical attention and suffered injuries to the head, pelvic, and ribs. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was totaled and was not diagnosed. The failure mileage was 150,000.
- Steering
My steering wheel turns on its own while in motion on the beltway and sometimes it difficult to steer at all while in motion in traffic. I purchased new tires thinking that would solve the problem but it didn't.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
Takata recall making a complaint about not doing recall in a timely manor
- Power train · Unknown or other · Vehicle speed control
Clutch pedal bracket broken under normal conditions. I went to push the clutch in to downshift at highway speeds to over take a slower vehicle and it snapped with an audible "pop" and I couldnt shift into the lower gear and my rpms, went to idle at highway speed. Had it broken at a different time…
Clutch pedal bracket broken under normal conditions. I went to push the clutch in to downshift at highway speeds to over take a slower vehicle and it snapped with an audible "pop" and I couldnt shift into the lower gear and my rpms, went to idle at highway speed. Had it broken at a different time, I could have been locked into a certain gear and ha to break fast or crash risking the lives of my occupants and the occupants of another vehicle
- Electrical system · Steering · Suspension
I had many recalls done last year. Now, today, oliver at mazda corporate said that joe machens dealerships aren't equipped to have done the work properly. Recalls: 16v793, 17v-354 & 355, front end stearing from inappropriate caulking of ball joint , engine replaced twice, oil mixing with coolant…
I had many recalls done last year. Now, today, oliver at mazda corporate said that joe machens dealerships aren't equipped to have done the work properly. Recalls: 16v793, 17v-354 & 355, front end stearing from inappropriate caulking of ball joint , engine replaced twice, oil mixing with coolant, again, and now my alarm goes off as soon as I start it. Joe machens told me to remove the battery. A new lithium battery IS being developed by mazda because rotary engines can't use a regular battery. they had my car for six weeks last year, august, and kept yelling that they didn't have the new, correct parts. My stearing IS difficult at times and they never told me about the recall concerning this. The seals deteriorated making issues. Now they are making new gaskets, rings, etc. To be heat resistant. They are fighting me, again, while they have admitted my car needs proper fixing with proper parts from inappropriate work done last year. One corporate worker said maybe a new engine should have been done with proper parts. Yet not at a dealership, at a mechanical shop that knows how to work on rotory engines. my car was parked in my lot. I had my oil checked to have fluids changed with valvoline because of their offer for 150,000 miles on engine if using their oil. I couldn't go forward with this because of the same issues . Oil foamy, alarm goes off, faulty light they knew about also. It worked before they did recall work on it. It IS not safe for fire hazard, stearing difficulty, goes through a lot of oil since they worked on it. Ignition switch recall they never did. Were supposed to contact me when parts arrived. I will need to fax you paperwork. Many pages. Also shows how they x'd out one recall concerning gaskets. I couldn't check the boxes as I wished to report.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving 65 mph, the contact noticed that the power steering indicator illuminated as the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the highway. The vehicle was turned off and then restarted approximately 20 times before the…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving 65 mph, the contact noticed that the power steering indicator illuminated as the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the highway. The vehicle was turned off and then restarted approximately 20 times before the contact was able to regain full control. The dealer (midlands mazda, 655 broad river rd, columbia, sc 29210) stated that the vehicle was known for having a ball joint issue and it could possibly be due to the rack and pinion. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving various speeds, a fuel odor emitted through the vents of the vehicle. The fuel odor was all around the vehicle while parked and fuel leaked underneath the driver side of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to kuhn mazda (3934 w kennedy blvd…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. While driving various speeds, a fuel odor emitted through the vents of the vehicle. The fuel odor was all around the vehicle while parked and fuel leaked underneath the driver side of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to kuhn mazda (3934 w kennedy blvd, tampa, fl 33609, phone: (877) 225-9956), but was not diagnosed. The dealer stated that the fuel system needed to be taken down to find where the failure was coming from and there would be a fee. The vehicle was not repaired due to the diagnostic and repair fees. The vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system, gasoline). The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 87,466.
- Engine · Service brakes · Wheels
The external oil lines and connection fittings for the rotory engine lubrication points and cooling have corroded away form road salt in minnesota. Driving causes engine oil to be sprayed on front wheel and brakes causing front brake failure and possible engine fire problems. The corrosion was so…
The external oil lines and connection fittings for the rotory engine lubrication points and cooling have corroded away form road salt in minnesota. Driving causes engine oil to be sprayed on front wheel and brakes causing front brake failure and possible engine fire problems. The corrosion was so bad that each attempt to fix an oil leak ended up braking more corroded oil fittings off. The total repair in 2017 ended being over $1,000 dollars for just parts plus labor. Mazda has previously paid to fix all mazda RX-8S sold to people in canada because of road salt corrosion failures of these same oil lines. Why doesn't the USA have consumer protection like canadian citizens have! I paid a repair shop by me $1,037.81 for the repairs. The mechanic lost about another $1,000 in after market fittings and hoses plus time, but each fix broke more fittings. He finally bought all new factory parts and sold them to me for cost and only charged us for about 2 hours labor. Tony beck,s auto repair in pineisland mn just couldn't charge anyone what it really cost him. us RX-8 owners are getting screwed by you not recalling this oil line failure problem. These oil lines and fittings go all around the outside of the engine and are high pressure 1/2 inch ID hydraulic lines. How can oil spraying front disc brakes and engine compartment not be a safety issue! Steve w. From minnesota, we have lots of road salt just like canada, that's why the I-35 bridge fell down. Not safe to drive with these salt corrosion caused oil leaks! caused massive oil leaks that can allow engine
- Air bags · Fuel/propulsion system
Hello. How are you? I hope everything IS going well for you. I am an owner of 2005 mazda RX8. I was a faculty of one university at texas by 2016. However, I left USA last fall and currently settled down in korea. I also took my car (2005 mazda RX8) from USA to korea. in terms of safety recall…
Hello. How are you? I hope everything IS going well for you. I am an owner of 2005 mazda RX8. I was a faculty of one university at texas by 2016. However, I left USA last fall and currently settled down in korea. I also took my car (2005 mazda RX8) from USA to korea. in terms of safety recall notices, I asked mazda USA to solve two safety recall issues (mazda recall #: 1017e—fuel tank leak as well as 9416e—takata recall) for my car. Unfortunately, there are no mazda dealer shops in korea, so I asked to mazda USA to send the parts via the mail to replace bad parts for my car. However, they rejected my requests and they said only mazda (certified) mechanic should complete the repairs. I am wondering if I can solve these serious safety recall issues. Am I not a customer of mazda because im not staying in the us anymore? Should I just wait and see my car results in fire and serious damage from takata airbag? Virtually, my mazda RX8 has currently fuel tank leaking issue (please see the attached photo). I realize that my request may be an imposition given your other commitments, but I would appreciate it very much if you can help me solve these two safety recall issues. Although im not staying in the us anymore, I still believe im a customer of mazda. If you need more information, I would be glad to provide more information (e.g., my auto insurance records in the us, etc.). im looking forward to getting your attention. Thank you so much.
- Unknown or other
Good morning, I have received numerous letters informing me that I have a recall on my mazda. It IS the "fuel leak at fuel pump rings and fuel pump discharge pipe 1017e" recall. I have been receiving them for the past year or so. Every time I check the nhtsa website or the mazdarecallinfo.com…
Good morning, I have received numerous letters informing me that I have a recall on my mazda. It IS the "fuel leak at fuel pump rings and fuel pump discharge pipe 1017e" recall. I have been receiving them for the past year or so. Every time I check the nhtsa website or the mazdarecallinfo.com website, it says "remedy not yet available". I am concerned with my safety at this point and am wondering just why there IS no "remedy" yet available? It seems to be an important recall, in my opinion.
- Steering
Power steering goes out unexpectedly, multiple fixes have been tried. Every forum option researched and the problem persists. There are hundreds, literally hundreds of complaints of power steering going out for similar reasons on rx8club.com. The power steering will be working one moment, cut out…
Power steering goes out unexpectedly, multiple fixes have been tried. Every forum option researched and the problem persists. There are hundreds, literally hundreds of complaints of power steering going out for similar reasons on rx8club.com. The power steering will be working one moment, cut out, then oversteer causing the driver to quickly make up for the jerk. Mazda please recall. All the evidence IS there, and your technicians at the dealership are all aware of how prevalent this problem IS. The coolant reservoir leaking coolant over the steering harness IS a design flaw. Please correct this.
- Air bags · Fuel/propulsion system
Takata inflators: nhtsa recall # 17v-011 has not been repaired fuel pump faulty: nhtsa recall # 16v-793 has not been repaired
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. After the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system), the contact noticed fuel leaking from the fuel tank. The local dealer (paretti mazda 4000 veterans memorial blvd metairie, la 70002) was informed of the failure, but failed to…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. After the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system), the contact noticed fuel leaking from the fuel tank. The local dealer (paretti mazda 4000 veterans memorial blvd metairie, la 70002) was informed of the failure, but failed to return the contact's phone call. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer could not be reached. The failure mileage was approximately 43,269.
- Air bags
Vehicle taken to anderson of crystal lake 60039 to repair the defect via recall campaign 16v-354. They did not install the replacement air properly causing the dash to crack, the new air bags safety IS jeopardized due to improper installation,
- Air bags · Service brakes
Clutch pedal keeps braking every 20,000 miles. :-/ this IS the 4RTH replacement I am looking at, currently IS braking gradually. air bags sensors keep failing every 30,000 miles and passenger airbag IS cracking.
- Engine
I purchased a used 2005 mazda RX-8 from a dealer. Signed a warranty although there were not a buyers guide or a used car sticker displayed anywhere on the vehicle. The vehicle originally belonged to mazda bommarito as evidenced by the faded residual imprint of the bommarito lettering that had beem…
I purchased a used 2005 mazda RX-8 from a dealer. Signed a warranty although there were not a buyers guide or a used car sticker displayed anywhere on the vehicle. The vehicle originally belonged to mazda bommarito as evidenced by the faded residual imprint of the bommarito lettering that had beem removed likely due to being unwanted inventory. I knew ahead of time that this particular vehicle has a rotary engine that requires standard maintenance and care which I have been performing and documenting along with all recalls. These include- let the engine warm up, regularly topped off all fluids decarbed and cleaned sensors etc internal maintenance care/break in period and replaced spark plugs/ leads with factory genuine oem first hand. After owning it less than a year, with only 50K miles on it, it began to run very poorly. I had the vehicle diagnosed and have documentation and records of work from several independent mechanics, shops and official mazda dealership(bommarito where it was originally transported from to the neighboring dealer) im paying $8,000 for at it and drove it for less than a year and in spite of regular upkeep it lost compression in its rear rotor. II have the extended warranty notice from mazda that covers rotary engine core replacements. However since its "used" it might not be covered by my states lemon law. There are 1000's of owners dealing with the same issues on behalf of mazda. I mailed the subsequent ownership notification to the mazda importer to transfer the records of the previous owners on a lease purchase which I have documentation of although the dealer would not give me any info about the coupes histroy which seems dishonest.. The dealership IS not entirely at fault. Mazda IS too. Have all this in paperwork. I am awaiting a return notice from mazda about transfer of warranty from the previous owner(s) documents are below.
- Engine
I believe safety and emissions recall 0516j IS causing my car to turn off while in motion, it can be in neutral or in gear. I called mazda corp and told them the vehicle turns off while in motion and believe it's cause by the recall; they said that they do not have a solution at the moment and…
I believe safety and emissions recall 0516j IS causing my car to turn off while in motion, it can be in neutral or in gear. I called mazda corp and told them the vehicle turns off while in motion and believe it's cause by the recall; they said that they do not have a solution at the moment and did not suggest anything but wait. This IS a daily driving car and I can not afford to call out of work because of the safety of this vehicle. I would suggest a courtesy vehicle while this recall IS being fixed.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system, gasoline); however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant…
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016 four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016 four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The investigation now includes all manufacturers and vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with consistently high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly, ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016, four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016, four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The PE is now closed/upgraded to an Engineering Evaluation (EA15-001) to include all manufacturersand vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's EA investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The recalls related to this PE are: 14V343, 14V344, 14V348, 14V351, 14V353, 14V655, 14V700, 14V701, 14V752, 14V763, 14V770, 14V773, 14V787, 14V802 and 14V817.The number of vehicles affected are an estimate since some vehicles may have both the driver and passenger side inflators recalled. The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Clutch pedal bracket failure
On September 23, 2009, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation to investigate allegations of the clutch pedal bracket failures in MY 2004 - 2006 Mazda RX8 vehicles.In response to an information request letter sent by ODI, Mazda stated that the failure mechanism may be related to an…
On September 23, 2009, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation to investigate allegations of the clutch pedal bracket failures in MY 2004 - 2006 Mazda RX8 vehicles.In response to an information request letter sent by ODI, Mazda stated that the failure mechanism may be related to an improper fastener attachment sequence to the body.The improper sequence may create a distortion of the pedal bracket and create a stress amplitude during pedal usage that may go beyond the wear out limit of the bracket.Mazda stated that the percentages of vehicles experiencing the defect is low at approximately 1% of the vehicle population projected to 10 years in service based on analysis of warranty claim data that best represented the alleged defect.In terms of risk to motor vehicle safety, Mazda stated that the failure is progressive with warning manifested in noise and difficulty in shifting gears prior to complete failure of the bracket.Mazda also stated that when a bracket fracture occurs the clutch pedal may lean towards the brake pedal however gear shifting becomes impossible prior to any contact of the clutch pedal to the brake pedal. ODI is not aware of any crashes associated with a clutch pedal bracket failure in the subject vehicles.ODI's analysis of warranty claim data provided by Mazda yielded failure rates of approximately 3% projected over 10 years in service. ODI's analysis of Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data complaint indicates that approximately 5% of the VOQ complainants allege they were unable to get out of the roadway as a result of a clutch pedal bracket failure.None of these incidents occurred on a highway. Approximately 7% of the complainants alleged a contact condition after a clutch pedal bracket failure of the clutch pedal to the brake pedal. None of these complaints noted difficulty in getting the vehicle stopped.Mazda has informed ODI that it will conducted an Owner Notification of an extended warranty coverage program increasing the clutch pedal assembly warranty to 8 years and limited at 100K miles for model years 2004 through 2009 RX8 vehicles.A safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will continue to monitor this issue and will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11007022Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 11006987In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws. It is the dealers responsibility to comply with Federal, State, and local laws concerning odometer and related documentation requirements when providing a repair or replacement. Mazda vehicles are manufactured with tamper-proof speedometers. When a speedometer is replaced, the new speedometer will read zero (0) miles. This procedure is extremely important to accurately represent actual vehicle mileage. Prior to speedometer removal, complete the information required on the Speedometer Replacement Label. Labels can only be ordered through Mazda eStore. In an effort to achieve a higher level of Customer Experience and retain the value of Mazdas vehicles, MNAO Warranty Operations is allowing all Mazda dealers to utilize a third party, SPECMO Enterprises, Inc., for Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) odometer setting service. With the use of SPECMOs services, it is possible that the odometer will be set between 10 to 31 miles over the odometer mileage at the time of replacement for both warranty and customer pay repairs. Please make sure that the customer is aware that there may be a slight variance to the odometer, in which case the customer may have to accept the slightly higher mileage. Since odometer setting service is not part of the warranty repair, it is not warrantable nor required, but optional. However, Mazda Warranty policy provides after- warranty assistance (AWA) or DSA that can be utilized to cover this service expense.
- 11005671Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers.
- 11003398Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers.
- 10251387Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers.
- 10243569Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 10240496Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 10232299Speedometer replacement procedure
- 10226814Some customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal. Follow the inspection guidelines below to determine if the condition is a result of the normal sweeping process or a failure of the shaft seal.
- 10225724Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 10217209In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer.
- 10215274This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer, inspect and maintain the battery periodically according to the repair procedure.
- 10213429Paint damage Mazda pocket paint guide
- 10213425Speedometer replacement procedure
- 10213422Proper usage of driver's floor mat.
- 10213333Battery test procedure requirements using the GR81291
- 10213326Mazda guidelines for factory scheduled maintenance
- 10213185Some customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal. Follow the inspection guidelines below to determine if the condition is a result of the normal sweeping process or a failure of the shaft seal.
- 10209778The Mazda DCA-8000 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement. Use the following test procedures in this Service Bulletin to test Mazda vehicle batteries and to generate a Warranty Code.
- 10209761Accessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories.
- 10208567Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 10208556Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers.
- 10206002Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Cooler and Lines Flushing Procedure: Automatic Transaxle/Transmission (A/T) oil cooler and lines must be power flushed completely before an overhauled or replacement A/T is installed (except SKYACTIV-DRIVE). The most common cause of repeat A/T failures is lack of lubrication to the front and rear planetary gears. This is usually caused by an accumulation of metal particles and debris (from a previous A/T failure) on the internal mesh type baffle of the oil cooler. Power flushing will remove the restriction by back flushing, followed by forward flushing to dislodge a restriction, then back flushing again. This will in turn ensure full ATF flow for the transmission when it is operating.
- 10205994Battery Maintenance: This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer, inspect and maintain the battery periodically according to the repair procedure.
- 10202695Ethanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85. E10: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline. E85: A blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline All Mazda vehicles can run on gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) but only some 1999-2001 B3000 trucks can run on gasoline with more than 10% ethanol blended. E10 compatible vehicles: All Mazda vehicles. E85 compatible vehicles: 1999-2001 B3000 Mazda trucks with the 8th VIN digit is V.
- 10201777Ethanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85. E10: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline, E85: A blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, All Mazda vehicles can run on gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) but only some 1999-2001 B3000 trucks can run on gasoline with more than 10% ethanol blended. E10 compatible vehicles: All Mazda vehicles. E85 compatible vehicles: 1999-2001 B3000 Mazda trucks with the 8th VIN digit is V. What if a customer puts E85 in there Mazda vehicle? Symptoms include: Rough Running, Lean Codes, Misfires and/or misfire codes, Lack of power, Poor fuel economy, Spark knock, Mechanical engine damage.
- 10200933This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer, inspect and maintain the battery periodically according to the repair procedure.
- 10200527This service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the drivers floor mat to avoid any potential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference, which can be avoided with proper usage.
- 10198691Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 10198689Accessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories. The links provided below can be used for quick access: For 2016 models and newer: NOTE: Instructions are found under the "Attachments" section once a part is selected. Accessories E-catalog For models prior to 2016: Accessory Parts and Installation Instructions
- 10198574Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building. This may be caused by the suns reflection. If a building creates enough of a curve with a series of flat windows, which act like mirrors, the reflections all converge at one point, focusing and concentrating the light onto the street below.
- 10194661Subject: ** UPDATE** - Takata Inflator Special Service Program (Extended Warranty) Special Service Program SSPB3: In December 2017 Special Service Program SSPB3 - Takata Inflator Extended Warranty was announced. The extended warranty was a result of the Takata airbag inflator class action settlement. Mazda will provide supplemental warranty coverage for all repairs and replacements (including parts and labor) to correct any defects in the materials or workmanship of Takata airbag inflators and the replacement inflators installed pursuant to the Takata airbag recalls. The program covers defects in the Inflator only and does not cover other items in the airbag system. Additionally, the program also does not cover airbags that have properly deployed as a result of a collision.
- 10188016This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer, inspect and maintain the battery periodically according to the repair procedure.
- 10188015The Mazda DCA-8000PM is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000PM is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement. Use the following test procedures in this Service Bulletin to test Mazda vehicle batteries and to generate a Warranty Code.
- 10186703In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer
- 10186693Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers.
- 10186334Display shows inaccurate ambient temperature. Some customers may complain that the ambient temperature display is not accurate, or it takes too long for the display to show actual temperature.
- 10185969Some customers may complain about a rattle type noise coming from the rear of the vehicle when driving on rough roads. This may be caused by a loose spare tire jack.
- 10185968Some customers may complain about a blurry rear view monitor display. This may be caused by an aftermarket accessory device.
- 10185967When installing a navigation SD card, confirm that the card is unlocked. Also, Mazda Does Not Recommend swapping navigation system SD cards from one vehicle to another for testing. If swapped, the SD card that is installed into the other vehicle becomes linked to the VIN of that vehicle.
Every Mazda RX-8 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.