Mazda Cx-7 problems
The Mazda CX-7 is a mid-size crossover SUV from Mazda, and is the production version of the MX-Crossport concept car. It was shown publicly for the first time at the 2006 LA Auto Show in January. Production officially began on February 20, 2006 in Mazda's Ujina #2 factory in Hiroshima, and went on sale in April 2006 as a 2007 model. The CX-7 was Mazda's first mid-size SUV since the Navajo was discontinued in 1994, although the CX-7 is considered more of a 'Soft Roader'.
The mid-size CX-7 was positioned below the larger three-row Mazda CX-9; the vehicles did not share platforms. Instead, it used the Ford C1 platform that underpinned the Ford Focus and Mazda3. The CX-7 was discontinued in August 2012 in favor of the new Mazda CX-5; as the compact CX-5 has similar interior space to the mid-size CX-7.
Specifications
Engine and transmission
Power comes from the same 2.3 L inline-4 MZR L3-VDT DISI engine used in the Mazdaspeed3 and Mazdaspeed6 coupled with a six-speed Aisin F21 automatic transmission, and tuned to produce 244 hp or 182 kW (Australian model 175 kW) at 5000 rpm and 258 lb·ft (350 N·m) of torque at a low 2500 rpm, 99% of the maximum torque is available to 5000 rpm.
The MZR 2.3L DISI turbo engine was retuned in the North American specification CX-7 to deliver torque at a lower rpm for less turbo lag off the line, at the cost of power. This was achieved thanks to a redesigned, smaller K04 turbocharger. United Kingdom specification CX-7s featured the same, larger K04 turbocharger and transmission found in the Mazdaspeed line.
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Mazda Cx-7 model years
Common Mazda Cx-7 problems
Common Problems with the Mazda CX-7:
- Engine Misfires: Engine misfires can occur in the Mazda CX-7, which means that the engine is not getting enough fuel and/or spark. This can lead to bigger problems, such as an engine stall. To fix this issue, you can check the spark plugs to ensure they are in good condition, clean the fuel system for clogs or leaks, adjust the spark plug timing, or replace the fuel filter.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are another common problem with the Mazda CX-7. If you notice a lot of oil under your vehicle, there could be a leak. If not repaired, this can damage other parts of the engine. To fix this issue, you can replace the leaking parts, such as the oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or valve cover gasket.
- Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger in the Mazda CX-7 is prone to failure, resulting in a lack of power and acceleration. If this part fails, there will most likely be white smoke coming from the exhaust. Replacing the turbocharger will fix the problem.
- Seat Trim Breaking: The clips on the trim between the base of the front seats and the floor are made of plastic and are easily broken. This can be fixed by replacing the trim.
- EGR Valve Failure: If the EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valves fail, it can lead to a lack of power when accelerating. The EGR valve gets blocked up, causing poor performance and you may also see a blue/black smoke coming from the exhaust. It can also lead to poor engine idling. You can remove the EGR valve and clean it out to remove the carbon build up.
- Door Seal Fault: The door seals on the CX-7 are known for failing, causing a creaking noise from the front doors when the vehicle is in motion. You will need to replace the door seals to fix the problem.
By addressing these common problems with the Mazda CX-7, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs in the future.
What is the major problem with the Mazda CX-7?
Common Problems with the Mazda CX-7
One of the most common problems is automatic transmission failure. If your CX-7's transmission isn't working properly, you won't be able to drive it. This can be a serious issue, but luckily, it's usually easy to fix. Another common problem is engine misfires.
Are Mazda CX-7 reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 14% for the Mazda CX-7, compared to an average of 13% for midsize SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Do Mazda CX-7 have transmission problems?
Mazda CX-7 transmission problems often reveal themselves as grinding or being jumpy during accelerations, shifting delays, whistle-like noise coming from the engine, car shaking while driving, or a burning smell coming from underneath the hood.
Why did Mazda discontinue the CX-7?
A spokesman for the Japanese automaker Mazda has confirmed this week that the production of the CX-7 SUV has ended. There are basically two reasons why Mazda has reached this decision, the first one obviously being the low number of sales, while the other has to do with the success of the CX-5 and the larger CX-9.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Cx-7 years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Cx-7 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Cx-7 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Cx-7 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Cx-7 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Cx-7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Cx-7 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Cx-7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cx-7 model years
A total of 24 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cx-7 model years
There were a total of 42 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cx-7 model years
There were a total of 20 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1123 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Cx-7 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Cx-7 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: JM3ER2BM7B0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I can not see at night. I have replaced the bulbs several times, and tried the most expensive bulbs. Nothing helps. You can only see with the high beams on, and that’s not safe for other drivers
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: JM3ER2CM1B0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Recall on air bag throwing metal
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: JM3ER2B53B0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I called Mazda to report that my air bag warning light came on and they told me it had been replaced on Jan 8, 2019 and was not under recall. Not sure what to do as light stays on all the time while driving.
Mazda Cx-7 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-12
- VIN: JM3ER2W59A0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mazda CX-7. The contact stated that while her son was driving approximately 35 MPH, the driver's side and passenger’s side air bags independently deployed. There was no accident to cause the air bags to deploy. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Mazda Cx-7 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-01
- VIN: JM3ER2W54A0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Low beam headlamps are extremely dim. Have bought new replacement headlamps and are still very dim. Bought both replacement headlamp housings thinking wiring could be compromised but that didn't help either. Replacing headlamps is difficult due to having to remove either the front tires OR the front entire bumper assembly to switch out lamps. No fog lights are present on this model so makes driving at night very difficult. and unsafe.
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-14
- VIN: JM3ER2B52B0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights are UNSAFE! Extremely dim. We have replaced the bulbs and gotten great LED lights but the issue is still there. Sometimes I feel like my lights aren’t even on but they are, I cannot see. Please can you fix this. They just keep getting worse. I would have to drive with high beams on just to be safe. I don’t drive at night in my car if I don’t absolutely need to because of this issue.
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-13
- VIN: JM3ER2B55B0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: During a rainy evening I could not see with the wipers on max speed and the headlights on low beam. I couldn't see the road unless a car was in front of me or I turn on my high beams. My son was in the car with me and several times I had to go at a crawling speed and still barely stayed on the road because of low visibilty. This has happened more than once and I feel unsafe driving now because I feel like I'm driving with no lights on at all these days without rain and rain makes it 10x worse.
Mazda Cx-7 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-01
- VIN: JM3ER2A54C0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: No matter the bulbs I use, the headlights are always dim. This is incredibly unsafe for night driving.
Mazda Cx-7 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-18
- VIN: JM3ER293670
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Mazda CX-7. The contact stated that the air conditioning system was inoperable, and the cabin air filter was replaced; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, he smelled a burning odor. The contact stated that her husband drove to the residence, and while parking the vehicle, he noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. An independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle at the residence and determined that the air condition compressor clutch had seized, causing the compressor fuse to burn. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that older vehicles were not service at their location. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 174,000.
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-22
- VIN: JM3ER2A53B0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Just bought this car used and the very first night I realized that the headlights are very very very dim. After online research, it seems this is a common issue with make model&year.
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-16
- VIN: JM3ER2C55B0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Low beam headlights are so poor that they barely illuminate the roadway when driving at night. I've replaced them with Sylvania Silverstar Max bulbs as well as tried LED bulbs and neither help. Makes the car almost worthless to drive at night due to the limited visibility. It has slowly gotten worse since my purchase of the vehicle in 2016.
Mazda Cx-7 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-20
- VIN: JM3ER4WL5A0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Recently got this car and am fixing it up. Vehicle's headlights function but are dysfunctional. Night driving is impossible as per nearly nonexistent illumination of roadway. Don't know how to fix/upgrade. Wanted to give this vehicle to my Florida student but now hesitate as Florida's roadways are not illuminated. Have seen many posts relative hereto, even when the vehicle was new. A manufacturer's recall should issue for new improved headlights. Please advise on a fix for this essential vehicular safety function .
Mazda Cx-7 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-10
- VIN: JM3ER2BM7C0
- Components: STRUCTURE,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: There is excessive rust on this MAZDA. We drive in NYC, and i believe due to the close proximity to the ocean this Mazda was not properly prepared.
Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-24
- VIN: JM3ER2A55B0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Transmission went out at 150,232 Also car has a lot blond spots
Mazda Cx-7 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-18
- VIN: Jm3er2wm7a0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlight to nowhere just started having horrible visibility it’s like if lights were off I change the bulbs several times LEDs H IDs factory bulbs still results no good
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Cx-7
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 29 recalls for different components of the Mazda Cx-7.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Cx-7 2010
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 1317F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V356 and 17V012.
- Model: Mazda Cx-7 2012
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 1317F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V356 and 17V012.
- Model: Mazda Cx-7 2011
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 1317F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V356 and 17V012.
- Model: Mazda Cx-7 2008
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 1317F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V356 and 17V012.
- Model: Mazda Cx-7 2007
- Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 1317F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 16V356 and 17V012.
Latest negative Mazda Cx-7 car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Cx-7 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
I think the design of this car is really eye-catching and it lives up to its promises. The performance is outstanding, although it hasn't been fully broken in yet, you can already feel its potential. The interior is comfortable and has a high-tech feel to it. The steering is taut and has a good feel to it. The ride is firm but not hard, just the right balance in my opinion. During my first fuel refill, it took 10 gallons for 182 miles, which is about what was predicted. Once it's fully broken in, it will be a barrel of fun to drive, especially with its turbo engine and 6-speed transmission. The shifts are smooth and powerful. If you're a fan of modern design and high-tech cars, then you'll definitely love this automobile. Its head-turning design speaks volumes about its looks. Overall, it's a winner!
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Vehicle year: 2012
This SUV is so much fun to drive! It handles like a sports car and the turbo charged engine provides plenty of power. I have never had any issues with the A/C, even on the hottest days in Arizona, it blows ice cold air. I have only had to take it to the shop once for repairs due to a tire issue, and maintenance costs have been relatively low. I highly recommend using synthetic oil. Overall, this car is highly reliable and looks great!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I needed a vehicle that was bigger than a sedan or wagonette, but smaller than an SUV or van. I considered several options, including the Murano, RAV4, Tribeca B9, and Acura MDX. However, the RAV4 was too small and had a cheesy interior, while the Tribeca was too funky-looking and had poor shifting. For the money, the CX-7 beats out the Murano (which is the most similar comparison), the Acura, and even the B9. There are great deals to be had due to it being a new model vehicle, and I was able to pay invoice. The Touring model is loaded with features, including leather seats, Bose sound system, sunroof, 18-inch wheels, great power and handling, traction and stability control, high-performance tires, and keyless entry. It also has 5-star crash ratings all around! The CX-7 costs thousands less than similarly equipped models above (except for the RAV4). Mazda has a real winner here!
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Vehicle year: 2007
My wife and I recently welcomed our second child, which prompted us to start looking for a more spacious vehicle, such as an SUV/CUV. We were trading in our beloved Acura TL, which we found to be a fun car to drive. Our search for a new car was focused on finding something that was both fun to drive like the TL, but also had more room. After considering several options, including the Acura RDX, Volvo XC90, Subaru Tribeca, and Nissan Murano, we stumbled upon the CX-7. We were blown away by the test drive! The CX-7 offered a fun ride with a model style that turns heads. It had great pickup and cornering, and provided ample room for our family's needs. The sporty look and feel of the car was exactly what we were looking for. We decided to order all of the extras, except for the Tech Package, and we were particularly impressed with the crisp sound quality of the Bose system.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I'll edit this review with more details, but in a nutshell, the car is a blast to drive. The steering and suspension response are great on all kinds of roads, making it agile and better at holding the road than any of its rivals. The brakes are also impressive, and despite being a little difficult to dose, the stopping distance is beautiful. I'm 6'7
Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-7?
Lavon Reinger 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2008
I owned the car for a year and a half and unfortunately had to replace the engine twice. The check engine lights were a constant issue. I'm disappointed with my experience and have decided not to purchase a Mazda again.
Ole Schamberger 2025-03-15
Vehicle year: 2008
The air compressor malfunctioned at just 18000 miles, causing the drive belt to burn up. It is important to note that premium gas is required for optimal performance, despite any claims made by the dealership. Using anything else will result in poor gas mileage and subpar shifting.
Michale Roob 2025-03-03
Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. Recently, I had a bit of trouble with my Mazda CX-7 while driving on the highway. Unfortunately, my car made a loud noise from the engine and had a loss in power. I decided to tow it to a Mazda dealer where a technician inspected my car and found that the timing chain was missing a pin, which caused the engine to break. As a result, I had to replace my engine at 72K miles, which is just slightly over the 70K mile service notice that Mazda recently put out for reimbursement from repairs related to the VVT Timing Chain. I've hired a lawyer to pursue reimbursement of my engine replacement cost and was wondering if you knew of any other cases of engine failure or repairs around/above 70K miles due to the timing chain. Thank you for your help!
Miller Feeney 2025-02-26
Vehicle year: 2010
I bought a car that had 80,000 miles on it, which sounded great at the time. Unfortunately, after only 6 months of owning it, the turbo charger went out, which ended up costing me a pretty penny. Then, because I drove it too far, the entire engine needed to be replaced. After waiting for 3 months while it was in the shop, I finally got my car back. Now, when I drive, the wheel alignment is off and it makes annoying sounds, as well as weird jerks and pulls while accelerating. Although I love this car, the problems that come with it are disappointing. I wish you the best of luck with your car!
Dedrick Gleichner 2025-02-21
Vehicle year: 2012
I really like my car, but unfortunately, I have had some issues with its reliability. Every spring, my A/C fails due to a bad relay, and the A/C itself is not very strong. Additionally, the A/C drain gets clogged multiple times a year, causing water to leak into my floorboard. Although some dash lights were fixed under warranty, they are now out again, and the car's clear tail lights are turning white for some reason. When the fan engages, the car makes a loud clunk, which Mazda says is normal. The blue-tooth and audio streaming can be glitchy at times. Despite these issues, my car always receives compliments, and I appreciate its sleek black design with chrome door handles and trim. I had hoped that Mazda would be more reliable, but unfortunately, this has not been the case.