I recently bought a 2006 RX-8. The instructions for short trip (like driving out of the garage) is to don’t shut the engine off cold, but leave it running until the temp gage comes to center. Then rev to 3000 rpm for 10 seconds, and then you can turn it off. I guess if you don’t do this there could be a starting (flooding?) problem and I read the procedure for clearing that. Or, maybe it’s more serious if its a lubrication problem (wet gas on the chamber walls?) I have several questions concerning this problem:

1. Does anybody understand technically what why this problem occurs and why this warm-up procedure is neccessary in this engine?
2. Was this problem fixed in the 2004 to the mid 2006 recalls? (Could the problem be circumvented by reprogramming the computer)?
3. Do these same procedures apply to 2007 RX-8s? (And if so might the fix be in my 2006 with a June, 12 build date)?
4. And last, what the chance of ignoring the warm-up and still never having a problem?

 

I just bought a 2007 a few days ago, so can't answer your other questions, but I can answer #3. Yes, the same procedures apply to an '07, because that was in the material I was given with my car.

 

I bought a 2004 RX-8 last year and have never experienced the flooding problem or any other problem. I live in N. California and we also experiencevery cold weather, rain etc. which others blame for their problems with their RX-8. However, I do let the engine warm up when starting for the first time for about 3-4 minutes andI don't rev the engineat all. The bottom line is to make sure your RX-8 is well maintained and serviced regularly. Ensure all recall notices are taken care of religiously and don't wait for the dealer to call you. I callthe dealer once per quarter to ask a simple question, "is there a recall notice".Also, if you are still under a warranty I would have Mazda service the vehicle (i.e. oil changes etc..) this way a service record is maintained for future use. Also, any little warranty item that you feel is wrong (i.e. noises etc..) have the dealer fix. I treatmy RX-8the same wayother people treat their expensive Porches and Lamborghini's, this way I enjoy a vehicle that provides me with the joy of a fast dependable ride.