Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2010 Mazda RX-8 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

38/ 100

KeepScore

HIGH RISK

Grade: D

A passionate but perilous choice, offering driving exhilaration at the constant risk of financial ruin from its temperamental rotary engine.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2010 Mazda RX-8

  • Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump.
  • Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2008 Mazda RX-8 earns a 45.
  • The system most likely to surface first: rotary engine (renesis) (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 2010 Mazda RX-8?

The 2010 Mazda RX-8 is a uniquely engaging driver's car, but its rotary engine presents significant and costly reliability challenges that few are prepared for. While offering an exhilarating experience, it demands meticulous, non-standard maintenance and carries a substantial risk of expensive engine failure, making it a high-risk proposition for most buyers. This vehicle is best suited for dedicated enthusiasts with deep pockets and a strong understanding of its specific needs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Exceptional handling and chassis balance
  • Unique high-revving rotary engine experience
  • Distinctive styling and suicide doors

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2010 Mazda RX-8. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Rotary Engine (Renesis)critical
2
Ignition Systemmajor
3
Catalytic Convertermajor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2004-2011 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-354 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

What breaks on the 2010 Mazda RX-8?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mazda RX-8 by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mazda RX-8. Click any year for its full report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2010 Mazda RX-8

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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Complete Owner's Guide

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