Brief introduction, I just picked up a red Evo RS this past weekend !
Finally, Evo in my possession! Couple observations:

- it rocks in handling, firm and stiff (definitely my daily car)
- good streaming power (still breaking it in at 300miles)
- less lag than my puny T25 Eclipse spyder (hows that possible?)
- whole lot of room (great future family car)
- car feels light! (maybe RS factor?)
- Recaro's are so comfy (best seats yet, for my aching back!)
- luv the stripped trunk
- ditto crank window but could use power locks
- paid $500 under invoice (loyalty prog), $27,200 on the road!

Couple issue though:
- at times, front right strut makes sqeaking and clanking noise!!!
- when foot is off throttle, engine or tyranny makes grinding noise (this normal?)

Overall, this car inspires so much confidence! Now I feel safe on highways!

Can other RS owners chime in on issues???

thx

 

im guessing what your hearing is the transmission deceleration noise
yes is normal but i wonder if the front lsd makes any extra noise.

 

The second problem you mentioned is normal; it's just the sound it makes when it decelerates. Glad to hear another happy owner .

 

I have no sqeaking/clanking in the front end but I thought I have read about some 03's having this issue. The car definitely has some gear whine on deceleration but I don't think anymore than the regular Evo.

 

The noise you're hearing from the front passenger side is probably coming from the plastic windshield molding.

The tranny will shift smoother after you put more miles on it.

 

is the EVO 8 and RS have the same suspension components? I know MR has the specially designed blisten suspension setup.

 

Swap out your driveline fluids for some premium Redline or eq. stuff and most of your tranny noises will go away.

 

Thanks guys for the inputs!

Will replace fluids - good to hear it's not a problem.

Since I'm planning to change springs hopefully this will take the clanking out or at least tighten up loose pieces...

How's window plastic molding related to metal clanking noise?

 

I don't know about the window plastic molding, but I do know that my car made a ton of noise for the first few thousand miles, but as time wore on, they gradually went away. Just keep in mind the Evo is, by definition, a noisy car. However, if the problem gets worse or really worries you, just take it back to the dealer and have them look at it under warranty.

 

I just bought an RS JUly 27th for $25,998 and it is awesome. I love it. All the things that you were talking about are correct except for the front strut clanking. But the engine on all evo's makes thoes sounds.

Ken 2004 EVO RS 700 miles

 

Congrats! Glad to see another EVO member from SF here.

 

Since reported the gear noise has decreased noticeably, after 1k miles.
But I still get squeaking near the passenger side dash board. It seems to come and go like a unwelcomed visitor!

Hopefully, my catback will drown out them all!

 

Actually, I did take her to the Satan. Of course, they found nothing but did state the following, "Evo is the meanest and fastest car ever made and it's going to making lots of sounds..." HAHAHAHA, I had a good laugh but had to take time off from work!

 

Any of the RS owners on this thread find the car too loud without the sound deadening?

Just wondering... thinking of the '05 RS v. '05 MR. Have the later on order.

 

it isnt too loud....