Is the Mazda RX-8 Reliable?
2004–2011 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sportss — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Mazda RX-8? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Mazda RX-8 Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 2 | 3 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2010 | 3 | 3 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2009 | 2 | 5 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2008 | 2 | 2 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2007 | 2 | 26 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2006 | 2 | 39 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2005 | 3 | 114 | 2 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2004 | 6 | 306 | 10 | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the RX-8 Compares to Similar Vehicles
The RX-8 scores 2 points below the average sports. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Mazda RX-8 Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 498 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda RX-8 reliable?+
The Mazda RX-8 scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 8 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 22 recall campaigns and 498 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year RX-8 is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2011 RX-8 achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 2 recalls and 3 complaints.
How many miles does a RX-8 last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Mazda RX-8 owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used RX-8 will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Mazda RX-8 Research
Check a Specific Mazda RX-8 VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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