Is the 2004 Mazda RX-8 a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
C4/10
The Mazda RX-8 is a unique sports car with driving thrills, but be prepared for frequent maintenance and potential engine issues.
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Pros
- Unique rotary engine
- Excellent handling
- Sleek design
Cons
- Poor fuel economy
- High maintenance costs
- Limited reliability
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
16 mpg
Maintenance cost
$4,000/yr
Expected lifespan
150,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Apex seal failure
- High oil consumption
- Cooling system problems
- Ignition coil failure
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls
No open NHTSA recalls are on record for the 2004 Mazda RX 8 as of our latest check.
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.