Mazda cars, trucks and SUVs have enjoyed a good reputation for being durable, dependable vehicles. Few have experienced significant engine problems. However, some RX-8 1.3-liter rotary engines have suffered from excessive oil consumption and a damaged catalyst due to oil leaks that could lead to engine failure.
Some 2004 through 2006 Mazda RX-8s may suffer from poor lubrication when using synthetic oil in hot climates, flooding, loss of compression and difficult starting. Mazda dealers have reported numerous RX-8 customers complaining about higher than average oil consumption and faulty rear rotor seals that lead to oil leaks. A vacuum test will diagnose the problem and may result in Mazda replacing the engine, according to RotaryNews.com and Consumer Affairs.
Some 1994 Mazda RX-7s may have faulty fuel hoses in which engine heat can cause premature deterioration of the gasoline line. It may leak fuel and cause a fire. If the faulty line is removed and reinstalled, the leak could become worse. Motor Trend reports Mazda will install an extra electric cooling fan control unit that operates after the engine is turned off to more quickly reduce engine heat.
The radiator cap pressure relief valve in the 1994 RX-7 may be set too high, causing engine temperatures to exceed appropriate limits. It could cause coolant to leak at the top of the engine, drip coolant onto the exhaust manifold, and cause a fire. The valve and the radiator cap should be replaced.
Some 2005 RX-8s left parked with the engine running at high RPMs over a period of time will create excessive heat and possibly affect the oxygen sensor, brake lights, parking brake, gas gauge, neutral switch, and lead to possible fuel leaks. Mazda will replace any components affected by an overheating idle engine.
About 6,000 2007 MazdaSpeed3 have a Number 4 side engine mount bolt that could become loose under sudden acceleration. If the bolt breaks, it will cause the transmission to become misaligned and cause the engine to lose power. The engine mount bolt and bracket should be replaced.
Rough idle and stalling could be a problem in some high-mileage Protégés while making a turn around corners. Although having the fuel injection system cleaned and the vehicle tuned is necessary, the problem may be a faulty rubber air intake boot that flexes as the engine leans during the turn, according to experts at the 2carpros.com website.
A bad fuel pump may be the cause of some Protégés with stalling problems while the vehicle is traveling at any speed. Symptoms include the engine not responding to acceleration at random intervals, but running well after the engine is shut off and restarted. The problem will persist until the fuel pump is examined and replaced.
