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: 2009
Love my CX7!! Fun to drive and well made!!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I was pleasantly surprised to find that this SUV comes with 4 wheel ventilated disc brakes at this price range. The handling of the car is very stable and sure-footed, even in slippery conditions. I even tried to spin it out and drift it over snow to show my son how to handle such situations, but the car would not let me drift - it was very sure-footed! Additionally, since it is made in Japan, I have not had any quality issues. I highly recommend it.
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Vehicle year: 2012
I picked up my brand new 2011 CX-7 last week. The great price and excellent trade-in for my 2006 Honda Civic made it an easy choice. I have close to 600 miles on it and it has been a nice, smooth, and quiet ride. So far, I have not encountered any issues. I am currently getting about 26 MPG combined, but it will probably get better after the 'break in' period. I will come back and give everyone updates.
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Vehicle year: 2010
When I was looking for a compact SUV in my price range, I considered the CX-7, CRV, and RAV4. Ultimately, I chose the CX-7 because it felt more luxurious than the others. It offers a rare combination of style, refinement, and driving pleasure that I couldn't find in other cars in this class. Plus, for only $25K, it comes with power and heated seats, a rearview camera, auto A/C, a moonroof, and Bluetooth. While the CX-7 could use more room and power, it never felt slow during my daily commute, and it's spacious enough for my family of four plus our 120LB dog. The CX-7 looks stunning both inside and out, making it stand out in any parking lot.
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Vehicle year: 2007
This car has great styling and performance, but unfortunately, there have been some known issues with it. Some owners have reported problems with the A/C compressors failing or even catching fire, timing chains breaking in low mileage cars and causing engine damage, and poor turbo cooling design leading to sludge buildup and failure. It's important to note that some owners have reported difficulty with Mazda honoring the 5 year/60,000 mile Powertrain Warranty, even with valid oil change receipts. Overall, it's important to be aware of these issues before making a purchase decision. Thank you for considering this information.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-7?
Niko Lubowitz 2025-08-19
Vehicle year: 2012
I love the black cherry color of this car, it looks great both during the day and at night. As someone who is 5'9, I have to keep the seat all the way down and leaned back, but even then, my head almost hits the ceiling. While the seats are pretty comfortable, they may not be ideal for long trips, but thankfully the heated seats help. However, the back seats are quite cramped and there is virtually no leg room. The headlights are not the best at night, so we have to turn on the brights which just look normal. Since owning the car, we have had to replace a few things such as the battery, interior light bulbs, both headlights, and the engine and cabin air filters. Thankfully, all of these were done for free due to recalls. The MPG on the highway is decent, but in town, it doesn't quite match up to what Mazda advertises. The AWD system is always on and there is no button to turn it off, which contributes to the lower MPG. However, this car handles deep snow on country roads with ease, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with harsh winters.
Kyler Murphy 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 2008
We have owned two cx-7s. The first one was bought used and unfortunately got hit and totaled after a year. We didn't have it long enough to experience any major issues. However, we bought another cx-7 thinking it would be a good car. In hindsight, we realize that it wasn't the best decision. We purchased the second one with only 56,000 miles on it, but after just a few months, the turbo went out and it cost us $4000 to fix. After that, the check engine light kept coming on and the dealership told us it was due to 'sludge'. We finally replaced the motor at 109,000 miles due to the numerous problems it had. Unfortunately, we are still experiencing issues with the new motor and have spent a couple of thousand dollars trying to fix it. We have decided to trade it in for a Nissan Maxima. We highly recommend that you avoid purchasing a Mazda, especially the cx-7. Thank you for considering our experience.
Nelson Lubowitz 2025-08-16
Vehicle year: 2007
I recently had an issue with my Mazda, unfortunately, the turbo failure caused the engine to fail. The repairs were quite expensive and not covered. I have noticed that there are many people online who have also experienced this issue. If you are a Mazda owner and haven't experienced this problem yet, it may be worth considering trading it in before it becomes a costly issue. I decided to trade in my Mazda for a Honda CR-V and I am very happy with my decision. The Honda has been a great car so far.
Josue Hahn 2025-08-15
Vehicle year: 2008
I was really excited to own this vehicle, but unfortunately, I didn't do enough research before buying it. I paid $8k for it when it had 88k miles on it, and it came with all the bells and whistles. My favorite things about this car are that it's zippy (thanks to the turbo charge) and has great audio. It's also relatively comfortable. However, I did run into some issues with it. It's not very mechanically reliable, and I've had problems with fuel injectors, leaky seals, bad AC switches, and more. I've had to spend around $8-$10k on repairs since buying it. It's also not the best choice for anyone over 6 feet tall, and basic maintenance can be quite expensive (the transmission fluid is 'special' and costs twice as much). The back-up camera monitor is also pretty low-def and not very effective. For a car that looks so fancy, I really wish they had put more effort into making it reliable. Every time I leave town (whether it's just 15 miles on the interstate or 200), my check engine light comes on. The turbo definitely doesn't help with reliability, as it causes fuel injection issues. I've had to repair three oil leaks (one of which required removing the transmission, which was very expensive). I've also had issues with seals breaking and not going back together correctly, which has hurt my fuel economy. In short, if you're just looking for something to drive around town in, especially in snowy areas, this car would be an alright choice, but be prepared for repairs. If you need something that will last a long time and be reliable on long road trips, I would not recommend buying this car. I'm struggling with this because I really did love the car, but now I'm not sure if I can ever buy a Mazda again. This was my first experience with Mazda, and it may be my last.
Robin Little 2025-08-10
Vehicle year: 2007
The title says it all. Although it's roomy, comfortable, and somewhat sporty (which is what prompted me to purchase it in the first place), I have had some issues with the car. Firstly, the mileage is not great, and you need to use premium gas to run this 4-cylinder turbo. The reliability has also been a bit of a problem. There have been some known issues with the timing chain, which is supposed to last the life of the vehicle, but unfortunately, it's the #1 repair on this vehicle. Despite following the maintenance schedule, there have been some problems with it every other month. Additionally, there are currently several recalls on this vehicle, including some that may cause serious injury or death. However, the parts are on backorder, and there's nothing they can do at the moment. Overall, I have had some issues with this car, but I hope that Mazda will address these problems soon.