2006 Mazda RX-8
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mazda › RX-8 › 2006
These records cover every 2006 Mazda RX-8. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 2006 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.
Owner complaints
60 complaints1 involved a crash
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
The contact's grandson owns a 2006 Mazda RX-8. The contact stated that while her grandson was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the vehicle had an oil pressure failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Steering
There IS a white bushing that breaks and IS not replaceable. the whole steering column has to be replaced. the fact that this car was made with this flaw IS beyond my comprehension. the steering wheel becomes very loose and unsafe to drive.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Perry mazda of santa barbara ca IS refusing to repair my recall because the fuel pump currently installed IS an aftermarket part. I've contacted mazda, but the representative I spoke with agreed with the technician that they can't repair my recall. He IS looking into another solution so I can get my registration, but I'm making sure their acting legally.
- Power train · Unknown or other
The bracket for the clutch pedal has broken 4 times. The milage IS currently 81,000. I've contacted mazda corp and the dealer I bought it from new. They're saying unless there's a recall we have to keep buying a new pedal/bracket assembly. The metal they used IS soft and weak causing you to lose…
The bracket for the clutch pedal has broken 4 times. The milage IS currently 81,000. I've contacted mazda corp and the dealer I bought it from new. They're saying unless there's a recall we have to keep buying a new pedal/bracket assembly. The metal they used IS soft and weak causing you to lose control of the clutch. Pedal gets stuck too. It happens while driving and at idle. Dangerous going up or down hills even at intersections it'll disable your ability to move. When mazda does a repair the put the same weak junk not bothering to reinforce or even fix their problem. Look it up on the web. Just about everyone with a manual RX8 has the same problem.
- Steering
I'm writing to state on my RX8 shinka 2006 mazda has a steering wheel problem most concerning. I have owned it and maintained it. As I was leaving my bank I noticed a white gasket of kind on the floor of the drivers side. I went to drive my car and there was a lot of play in moving the steering…
I'm writing to state on my RX8 shinka 2006 mazda has a steering wheel problem most concerning. I have owned it and maintained it. As I was leaving my bank I noticed a white gasket of kind on the floor of the drivers side. I went to drive my car and there was a lot of play in moving the steering wheel. At first I tried unlocking and locking the steering column. this was no good. There was still play in the steering wheel. Meaning you can move the steering wheel column up and down with outside unlocking the column. this should not be an issue. It's just like the air bag recall. I shouldn't have to worry that my steering wheel will fail while driving my awesome car!
- Engine
Takata recall the vehicle was stuttering as I was driving home it wasn't hot or overheating or low on oil, I drove it home and shut it off I then later tried to start it it wouldn't start it just cranked and cranked it wouldn't even start or try to , the apex seals on this car went out which IS due…
Takata recall the vehicle was stuttering as I was driving home it wasn't hot or overheating or low on oil, I drove it home and shut it off I then later tried to start it it wouldn't start it just cranked and cranked it wouldn't even start or try to , the apex seals on this car went out which IS due to the loss of compression which ultimately caused the sputtering, mazda IS well aware of this issue as it was recalled almost a year ago but I didn't have the issue so I didn't see a need to get it replaced ! This issue IS unacceptable as now I'm without a car please help me out !
- Power train
The clutch pedal binds up,or sticks during releasing from the floor,was replaced before and still has the same issue and my local mazda dealership does not want to hear the complaint,now I will pay out of pocket for their repeated defect!
- Engine · Unknown or other
My vehicle experienced a defect known to mazda to the extent of them issuing a recall (or ssp) in the canadian market due to use of corrosives and excessive wet seasons causing build up on and corrosion of the oil cooler lines. Mazda clearly stated in the canadian ssp (#76) that extensive corrosion…
My vehicle experienced a defect known to mazda to the extent of them issuing a recall (or ssp) in the canadian market due to use of corrosives and excessive wet seasons causing build up on and corrosion of the oil cooler lines. Mazda clearly stated in the canadian ssp (#76) that extensive corrosion could cause a leak and/or loss of pressure, and knowing that a loss of pressure or a significant amount of oil while the car was in operation would cause drastic mechanical engine failure by way of burning out the seals/rotors/bearings and eventual seizure or total loss of compression in the motor. The loss of oil pressure due to corrosion directly resulting from this caused my apex seals to overheat and no longer provide a seal to allow the motor to hold compression. Due to this failure directly caused by the known defect, and the fact that the issue was put in place for canada due to their high propensity for extended wet seasons and high use of corrosives to alleviate wintery conditions on the roadways, mazda should also have issued regional or case-by-case recalls of vehicles that experience this same defect in areas of the united states that experience similar conditions. Had I been travelling on the highway and not on a 25mph city road, I could have experience a major accident or incident because of my motor failure. There are numerous other cases of this defect showing in american vehicles across the country, from near me (in new england) to california that have been reported online. I can contact the licensed mechnic who dealt with the vehicle for copies of his work orders, and I have receipts to prove that I purchased oil cooler lines as replacements before I knew of the loss of compression and ruined motor. Mazda USA was of no help in alleviating the problem, and I am now out thousands of dollars on a vehicle that I had recently purchased before the event occurred
- Power train › Clutch assembly
I was driving to work on the evening of february 21ST. I was stopped at a stop light and the light turned green so I pressed on the clutch to get the car in gear, when I pushed down however, the clutch made a large snapping sound and moved down a little further than usual. I went to put the car…
I was driving to work on the evening of february 21ST. I was stopped at a stop light and the light turned green so I pressed on the clutch to get the car in gear, when I pushed down however, the clutch made a large snapping sound and moved down a little further than usual. I went to put the car back into gear anyway and noticed that the clutch was much looser than before. It was wiggling from side to side and had much more dead space before it caught on the actual clutch. I also noticed it was much much harder to get my car into gear. I have to push and slam the stick into gear in order to get it to fit. I did some research and this was actually a very common problem for the 2004-2007 mazda RX-8'S. The car can still be driven, however I believe the full clutch shaft could snap off if pressed to hard.
- Power train
Clutch pedal snap off issue with RX-8 owners continues to be a serious safety concern, as the welds holding the pedal together can and will snap, leaving the driver unable to change gears or use their vehicle, even if in operation and at highway speeds. This issue has occurred with my vehicle as of…
Clutch pedal snap off issue with RX-8 owners continues to be a serious safety concern, as the welds holding the pedal together can and will snap, leaving the driver unable to change gears or use their vehicle, even if in operation and at highway speeds. This issue has occurred with my vehicle as of 11/20/17. The warranty mazda has issued simply IS not good enough, as the warranty simply replaces the broken clutch pedal bracket with one of the same design & flaw that will lead to the same failure. My vehicle was in motion and I was attempting to change gears accelerating when this occurred.
- Structure › Body
Takata recall. my 2006 mazda RX8 has had two recalls done on it. the 2ND owner had it done and afterwards a small crack started from one point where it was repaired. we had it done in gainesville again and brought it to their attention. they said they couldn't do anything except to buy a new…
Takata recall. my 2006 mazda RX8 has had two recalls done on it. the 2ND owner had it done and afterwards a small crack started from one point where it was repaired. we had it done in gainesville again and brought it to their attention. they said they couldn't do anything except to buy a new dash. the cracks have continued to spread and I'm concerned that if the air bag inflates personal injury could be done to the passenger from parts of the dash exploding. I will not allow anyone to ride it the passengers seat because of this. This continues to get worse over time not on a certain day. we keep a sunshade in the window hoping that will slow it down but to now avail. this IS a pleasure car and only as less than 36000 miles on it and it not abused.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact noticed a fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to moffitt volkswagen inc. (1960 old minden road p.o. Box 5855 bossier city, la 71111), and the contact was informed of a recall that may be related to the fuel odor. The dealer…
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact noticed a fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to moffitt volkswagen inc. (1960 old minden road p.o. Box 5855 bossier city, la 71111), and the contact was informed of a recall that may be related to the fuel odor. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle needed to be de-flooded due to a blockage in the fuel system. The contact declined the repair and took the vehicle to an independent mechanic to have the vehicle de-flooded. A week later, the engine warning indicator illuminated and the odor intensified. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic who diagnosed that the vehicle had a fuel leakage. The vehicle was towed to the moffitt volkswagen inc. Dealer and was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system,gasoline). After the repair, the engine indicator continued to illuminate and the odor persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 89,700.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v793000 (fuel system, gasoline); however, the part to do the repair was 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.
- Air bags
Airbag recall
- Air bags
Passenger airbag cover IS cracked all over, was told it was from the airbag. Doing the recall for the passenger airbag and waiting on the fuel tank recall.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump
The vehicle IS leaking gas from the fuel pump. It smells really bad scared to drive because the gas smell stay in the cabin. People when I park next to them say you have a bad gas leak . But it's just dripping from the fuel pump to where the fuel line connects and I just need help with this problem…
The vehicle IS leaking gas from the fuel pump. It smells really bad scared to drive because the gas smell stay in the cabin. People when I park next to them say you have a bad gas leak . But it's just dripping from the fuel pump to where the fuel line connects and I just need help with this problem because it IS not safe if people can tell me I have a bad gas leak just by parking right next to me also seem like it leaks while car IS off also it IS highly important that a person IS not to inhale gas fumes all day please help thank you *tr
- Air bags
The passenger airbag cover IS cracked really bad. I've got a notice saying there was a recall for airbags. took it to the dealer and they replaced the inflators only leaving the old airbag in there.
- Air bags · Engine
I purchased/financed my vehicle on october 9, 2015 at hilltop nissan (258 route 10, east hanover, nj 07936) at 59,201 miles. on april 7, 2016, I went to start the vehicle and the vehicle would not start. I had it towed to mazda of lodi, so the service department can take a look at the vehicle.…
I purchased/financed my vehicle on october 9, 2015 at hilltop nissan (258 route 10, east hanover, nj 07936) at 59,201 miles. on april 7, 2016, I went to start the vehicle and the vehicle would not start. I had it towed to mazda of lodi, so the service department can take a look at the vehicle. The service department contacted me and said it was the engine and the vehicle needs a new engine. the vehicle has only 63,545 miles on it, and since then, I drove only 4,344 miles in the six months. I asked the dealer, finance department for a warranty/extended warranty and the finance manager said, there are no warranties. I did not receive a white (square) piece of paper or booklet for warranty information or "as IS" information. now, I am paying $8500.00 for a new engine. then, I searched online for any safety issues or recalls on vinrcl.safecar.gov. I found out that this vehicle has a devastating safety recall involving the airbags. (There was also a recall many years ago involving the engine, and that mazda RX-8 owners can return the vehicle, by choice, for a full refund??) the dealer, hilltop nissan, did not notify me about this recall. They sold me a used car with a serious safety airbag recall. (Also: recalls on a engine) issue: I have a serious defect involving airbags that dispense shrapnel. I wonder what other serious safety issues involving the engine/vehicle that were not disclosed? thank you *tr
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bags). However, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags · Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact stated that the dash board on the passenger side of the vehicle was cracked. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bag). The contact was concerned for their safety due to the air…
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact stated that the dash board on the passenger side of the vehicle was cracked. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bag). The contact was concerned for their safety due to the air bag being exposed and the air bag may deploy due to the failure. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 63,000.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bags). The part for the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bags). The part for the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. updated 03/10/16*lj updated 03/16/16*jb
- Air bags
Takata recall: TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign numbers: 15v345000, and 15v382000 (air bags) however, the part to do the recall was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- Air bags
Cracked air bag cover. it happens after sitting in the sun.
- Power train · Unknown or other
Clutch pedal assembly snapped in half at weld point, while shifting at normal speeds on highway.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2006 mazda RX-8. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 15v382000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of this issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. updated 09/03/15*lj updated 09/10/15 *jb
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.
- 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.
- 10185966This article provides HVAC heater/defroster operating tips using Mode selector dial. This includes the use of intermediate positions.
- 10185904Some customers may complain that the steering wheel is off center more than 3" even when driving straight on a flat road.
Every Mazda RX-8 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.