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: 2010
I'm so glad to hear that you recently purchased a 2010 CX-7! It sounds like you did your research and made a great choice. After comparing it to the Acura RDX, it seems like the CX-7 came out on top in terms of features, styling, and pricing. The Bluetooth navigation and audio system are definitely impressive and it's great to hear that your husband is envious. It's also wonderful to hear that the CX-7 handles just as well as his TSX. Enjoy your new car!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I bought a 2008 CX7 in October 2012. Three days after the purchase, I noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust. However, the dealership fixed it without any questions asked. Apart from that, the gas consumption is a little low, but it also depends on how you drive. If you always drive like a bat out of hell, then of course, your gas consumption will be less than someone who takes their time or goes at a slow, steady speed. The interior is comfortable, and sometimes I feel like I'm in a cockpit in a spaceship, which is pretty cool. The back is very roomy, and everyone who sits there loves it. This is my first SUV, and I'm loving sitting higher. Overall, it's been a great purchase so far!
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Vehicle year: 2010
This is a great vehicle with lots of features and style. The turbo engine is smooth with minimal turbo lag, if any at all. While I expected the car to have more power with the 244 hp, I still find it impressive. I think it would be even better with a 6 cylinder instead of the turbo, but the MPG would probably be the same. I'm looking forward to testing the AWD system in the coming Maine winter months. The handling is excellent for a vehicle of this size, much like my 2007 Mazda 6 that I traded in for this one.
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Vehicle year: 2008
This is a great car! I considered lots of other vehicles before buying. I thought some of these reviews were unfair about this car, as most of the problems were due to driver error and not keeping up on normal maintenance. This is a fantastic car, fun to drive, with lots of spunk and great ride quality. It's quiet inside with plenty of room. I would recommend this car to anyone!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I recently purchased the CX-7 and I am absolutely thrilled with this SUV! It drives and handles beautifully, and the turbo 4 cylinder engine provides an incredible amount of power. The interior is incredibly comfortable and feels like a glove. It came fully loaded with seat warmers, power seats, and an excellent sound system with mp3 and media connections. I test drove all the competing SUVs in its class, but this one was by far the best in terms of performance, style, and comfort. I got a great deal below invoice and couldn't be happier with my purchase!
Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-7?
Ryley Bartoletti 2025-06-22
Vehicle year: 2009
Although I experienced several issues with my car, I decided to take action and address them. After noticing rust on the exhaust just two weeks after purchase, I was disappointed as I expected a new car to be in better condition. I took the car in for inspection a few months later and found that the rotors needed to be cut and the brake pads had rust that needed to be sanded. While I would have preferred for them to be replaced, I understood that this was a necessary step. Unfortunately, at 6000 miles, I experienced a complete shutdown of all electronics including TCS, radio, Bluetooth, navigation, and gas gauge. While I am unsure of the exact cause, it may have been related to rust in the components. Despite these challenges, I remained confident that the issues could be resolved. However, after careful consideration, I decided to sell the car and purchase a Nissan instead.
Malcolm McCullough 2025-06-05
Vehicle year: 2011
Hello MAZDA / 2010-2012 owners, I wanted to bring to your attention that Mazda North America Operations has issued a NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 14V114, which states that spiders may block the fuel tank vent line. While I only have 13,000 miles on my CX-7 GT, I believe Mazda should also address the turbo problem, AC problem, and braking problem. However, I recently purchased a 2013 Honda CR-V base and am very pleased with it. In fact, I just ordered a 2014 Honda CR-V EXL. Although I still love the styling of my CX-7, that is about all. I also test drove the CX-5 and was extremely disappointed. Thank you for your attention.
Cornelius Crooks 2025-05-29
Vehicle year: 2012
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my CX7, which I purchased the day before Thanksgiving last year. While I had high hopes for this vehicle, I have unfortunately encountered some issues. It has spent a total of three weeks in the shop due to air conditioning and electrical issues. Additionally, I have noticed that the plastic lenses on the headlights are becoming cloudy, which is surprising for a vehicle that is not even a year old. I was told by the dealer that this is normal, but I am still disappointed. Despite these issues, I take good care of my CX7 by keeping it parked in a garage at home and at work. I hope this feedback is helpful and thank you for your time!
Barney Wilderman 2025-05-29
Vehicle year: 2010
Small space in the back seat area. It can be hard to get good traction when starting on a wet surface. On Day 3, we had a backup camera installed. It would have been nice to have the backup camera already included. The car has a nice sound system and phone system included as standard. It sits lower than my other SUV. Overall, it's not a bad car. It's actually quite nice!
Myron Pagac 2025-05-12
Vehicle year: 2007
Hello! If you still own a 2007 CX7, I have some advice for you. Firstly, it might be a good idea to have a mechanic open the engine and clean any sludge that may have accumulated over the years. It's also important to have them check over the timing chain and VVT actuator. Secondly, instead of following Mazda's service plan, I recommend performing oil changes every 3000 miles. My Mazda dealer switched to 5w-20 (instead of 5w-30) because it is more durable with the turbo. You might want to consider doing the same. Although I loved the performance of the car during the short 2 years I had it, I must admit that the build quality is not the best and parts can be quite expensive. In fact, I traded our CX7 in yesterday for our first Ford (always owned Mazda until now). I wish you all the best of luck with this car!