Mazda RX-8 loss of power and check engine light issue with ongoing engine and wiring harness problems on Mazda RX-8

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Mazda RX-8 owners report experiencing a loss of power, with the vehicle unable to exceed 60 mph, which may indicate various underlying issues such as ignition cylinder problems leading to irregular engine performance, faulty exhaust gas oxygen sensors causing misfires during acceleration, or excessive engine oil consumption due to apex seal issues in the Renesis rotary engine. Additionally, some owners note that the check engine light frequently activates, often linked to permanent problems like malfunctioning sensors, temperature sensor failures, EGR valve issues, or lambda sensor malfunctions. Symptoms associated with these engine and wiring harness problems include the activation of limp mode alongside the check engine light. To mitigate these issues, it is advised that owners conduct regular maintenance to address engine misfires and ensure proper tuning, as well as check critical components such as the ignition system and exhaust gas oxygen sensor to diagnose and resolve the reported power loss and check engine light concerns.

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