Mazda Cx-9 problems

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The Mazda CX-9 is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by Mazda in Japan since 2006 through two generations With three-row seating, it was Mazda's largest passenger vehicle until the arrival of the CX-90.

Despite being built in Japan at Mazda's Ujina #1 plant in Hiroshima Prefecture, the CX-9 was never offered in the Japanese domestic market. The shorter and narrower Mazda CX-8 was offered in Japan instead.

First generation (TB; 2006)

The first generation CX-9 was originally fitted with a 3.5 L Ford V6 engine, but, in 2008, the engine was changed to a 3.7 L unit producing 204 kW (274 hp) and 366 N⋅m (270 lb⋅ft) of torque. The updated engine was introduced in June 2007 and it was now built by Mazda themselves. This engine was coupled with a six speed automatic transmission. The first generation is based on the Ford CD3 platform that is shared with many Ford and Mazda models; the Ford Edge is its close mechanical sibling. It was launched at the 2006 New York International Auto Show.

Standard safety equipment included blind spot monitoring, backup camera, electronic stability control, traction control, roll stability control, front side impact airbags, and three row side curtain airbags.

photo of Mazda Cx-9 car production

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Mazda Cx-9 model years

mazda cx-9 2023 photo
Cx-9 2023
Mazda

5

0

26

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2022 photo
Cx-9 2022
Mazda

4

0

33

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2021 photo
Cx-9 2021
Mazda

29

1

20

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2020 photo
Cx-9 2020
Mazda

8

1

37

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2019 photo
Cx-9 2019
Mazda

39

2

31

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2018 photo
Cx-9 2018
Mazda

103

2

36

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2017 photo
Cx-9 2017
Mazda

52

0

16

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2016 photo
Cx-9 2016
Mazda

93

0

32

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2015 photo
Cx-9 2015
Mazda

34

2

25

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2014 photo
Cx-9 2014
Mazda

53

3

33

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2013 photo
Cx-9 2013
Mazda

65

4

28

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2012 photo
Cx-9 2012
Mazda

219

4

23

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2011 photo
Cx-9 2011
Mazda

165

4

34

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2010 photo
Cx-9 2010
Mazda

191

6

32

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2009 photo
Cx-9 2009
Mazda

58

7

33

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2008 photo
Cx-9 2008
Mazda

172

6

31

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2007 photo
Cx-9 2007
Mazda

85

5

36

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Mazda Cx-9 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Mazda CX-9, several common problems have been reported:

  • Engine Problems:
    • Owners have reported various engine-related issues with the Mazda CX-9, including faulty water pumps, coolant leaks, ignition coil problems, and total engine failure.
  • Transmission Concerns:
    • While not as common as other issues, complaints about transmission problems have been noted, with transfer case failure being a frequent problem.
  • Electrical/Internal Accessories Malfunctions:
    • The Mazda CX-9 has experienced internal accessory malfunctions powered by the vehicle's electrical system, leading to issues like infotainment problems, GPS issues, bad alternators, and dead car batteries. These problems typically arise after around 15,000 miles of use.
  • Paint Quality:
    • Some owners have expressed concerns about the Soul Red crystal metallic paint used on the Mazda CX-9, particularly in models from 2017-2018. The paint has been reported to be thin, prone to flaking, and challenging to touch up due to its complex composition.

These common problems reported by Mazda CX-9 owners highlight the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance to address these issues promptly and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

Mazda Cx-9

Are Mazda CX-9 reliable cars?

In studies completed by Repair Pal, the Mazda CX-9 achieved a reliability score of 4 out of 5, which ranks first out of 14 full-size SUVs rated. Compared to the average, the Mazda CX-9 was found to have a lower annual repair cost and far less severe repair issues than similar vehicles.

What are the issues with the Mazda CX-9?

Common Mazda CX-9 Problems

Water pump failure - According to CarComplaints.com, the number one problem of the CX-9 is its faulty water pump, mainly due to collateral damage. Once the water pump fails, the coolant leaks into the engine oil and may lead to engine failure.

What is the best year of the Mazda CX-9 to buy?

When it comes to the first-generation models, many agree that the best years to consider are: 2007, 2009, 2013, 2014, and 2015. While the 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012 models can still be quality models, they do have more recorded issues than the others.

Is Mazda discontinuing the CX-9?

The 2023 model year will be the last for the three-row crossover, which is being replaced by the more upscale CX-90. The Mazda CX-9 will be discontinued after the 2023 model year, the company announced in a press release.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Cx-9 years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Cx-9 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Cx-9 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Cx-9 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Cx-9 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda Cx-9 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Cx-9 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine problems
  • Power train problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Cx-9 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cx-9 model years

A total of 54 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-9 model years

There were a total of 12 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-9 model years

There were a total of 36 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 1375 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Cx-9 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Cx-9 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
  • VIN: JM3TCBEY4J0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My vehicle was low on antifreeze. I brought it into the dealer and had them look at it. They told me there was an antifreeze leak inside the engine. I told them, I think there's a service bulletin on it. TSB-01-013-21 And there are updates to it. They told me that the antifreeze leak does not pertain to this service bulletin. I told them, how can that be? When it's an antifreeze leak with an engine that only has 66000 miles on it so far. I spoke to mazda customer service in California They said the dealer is trying to get some financial relief for me to replace a $10000 engine. Which they said is on back order till march 2025. I said how can this leak not be a problem when the engine is on back order, I feel that this should not have happened With a engine, that has 66000 miles on it? And it should be fixed free of charge because antifreeze leak is a known problem with these engines since 2016, and they never notified me to bring it in and have the defective part fixed Which causes the antifreeze leak. If they did that, my engine would not have blown and would not need replacement. I'm hoping they understand and do the right thing and fix this.
Mazda Cx-9 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: JM3TCBCY6G0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Vehicle failed to turn off the engine while in park and I was unable to lock vehicle while engine was still running. The ignition button failed to work.
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
  • VIN: JM3TCABY1J0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I purchased a 2018 Mazda cx9 from a local used car dealer several weeks ago. Check engine light came on after a few weeks for cylinder 3 misfire and there was a steep decline of the vehicle performance (hard start, rough idle, lower mpg, sluggish driving). Took it to Berge Mazda who charged me for diagnostics/spark plugs, and ignition coil. They informed me the next steps were a compression tests, fuel injectors and if that didn’t fix the problem then they wanted to strip down the engine to evaluate the cylinder head. At this point I decided to take it to my local mechanic who I trust, he diagnosed a cracked cylinder head. Now I’m stuck with a car I just bought that’s unsafe to drive needing a 6-8k repair. Upon further research there is a widespread problem with Mazda’s manufacturing of there cylinder heads on certain models (including the 2018 Mazda cx9). This is confirmed by TSB’s from Mazda along with a class action lawsuit recently filed. Upon more research on my vehicles history, I gathered that my vehicle was traded into Horne Mazda and then a couple days later auctioned to the used car dealer I bought it from. The fact that Mazda is selling off their own defective vehicles that are unsafe at auctions is absolutely disgusting and something needs to be done about it.
Mazda Cx-9 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
  • VIN: JM3TB3DA0B0
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Brake booster failure. The power assisted braking has stopped working. There are no leaking vacuum hoses and the check valve is working. The brake pedal travels to the floorboard.
Mazda Cx-9 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: JM3TCBDY3K0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2019 CX-9 GT, 30K miles, in August found coolant leaking under the car. This was 5 months past the warranty (but only 30K miles!). After doing research online, I found this is a massively common issue with all engines from several years encompassing 2019, where the coolant leaks due to a cracked cylinder head. There is a TSB from Mazda, which requires replacement of the engine, once the crack is developed. I immediately called Mazda corporate on 8/15/2024 and opened the case with them. They said they can try to assist, but first I have to take the car to the dealer for diagnosis of the problem. Had to wait 2 weeks, then leave the car, they did a full inspection and confirmed cracked cylinder head. Dealer opened up claim with Mazda (which apparently is separate from the case I made when I called the corporate). I had to go back because Mazda warranty dept. was asking the dealer to prove the engine was overheating, which it hasn't yet, because I kept adding coolant, so the engine never overheated. But the dealer lowered the coolant and had the engine overheat a little bit just to generate the computer code the warranty dept was requiring. This itself was an unnecessary additional potentially damaging scenario, completely unnecessary when the crack in the cylinder head was already found, and the coolant leak is clearly present. After all this, Mazda lowered their original quote from $10K to $6K and expect me to pay this to replace the engine. I called the corporate (customer relations) many times, but they said if the warranty dept. decided this, they cannot change it. And there's no way to talk to warranty dept. directly (not customer facing). We purchased a brand new factory assembled car for well over $40K. Due to a very common, Mazda acknowledged, engine manufacturing defect, the major component of the vehicle, its engine, requires replacement at only 30K miles! This is NOT a reasonable expectancy when purchasing any vehicle.
Mazda Cx-9 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: JM3TCBCYXM0
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Hello, I have been to a Mazda dealer complaining of clicking and squeaky brakes for 2 years now. Dealer replaced both front and back breaks and rotors around 22k year ago and to my surprise the issues persist, currently vehicle is at 49k. There is a TSB( 04-001/22) out for my vin and year, so they know its a manufacturing defect and all they do is throw white break grease and a month later the noise is there again when breaking , backing up. I am not the only one, people of reddit confirm this and so does a general google search. Besides that i love the car and the dealer was super cool about it all but I'm sorry, this is unacceptable, Every time i go get an oil change i ask about a fix and nothing.
Mazda Cx-9 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: JM3TCACY8M0
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Please add the 2021 CX9 model to the following bulletin. [XXX] This is exactly what is happening with my car and is extremely frustrating that a recall has not been issued to fix the problem. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
  • VIN: JM3TCADY4J0
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: - My 2018 Mazda CX 9 started stalling and jittering at idle and then eventually during slow driving. - Next day I got a check engine light, took to Mazda service center at the dealership I have been going to for last 6 years since I bought the car. - Service center diagnosed that there was a coolant leak through the cylinder head which seems to have cracked. - Further investigation indicated that this has been identified on many other similar Mazda engines and a Technical Service Bulletin had been issued by Mazda to Dealers. - On probing initially, dealership declined they were aware of any such problem. - The amount of repair for the engine replacement (cylinder head and other parts) is exuberant and is almost half of the value of my car, and is not expected for a low 44,000 miles car. - This had posed safety issue for my family since the stressed engine with leak in cylinder head could lead to fire and fatality. - I am awaiting response from Dealership and Mazda corporation case#[XXX] for a response especially when this issue has been filed under a class action lawsuit: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
  • VIN: JM3TCBDY3J0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Engine cylinder head is leaking coolant. This is a known issue by Mazda as they have submitted a TSB on the issue but have yet to submit a recall. The leak causes overheating along with pollution of coolant fluid into the environment. The problem was diagnosed by a Mazda dealership. The leaking occurred before a light came on the dashboard. The light on the dashboard only came on once the engine began overheating.
Mazda Cx-9 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: JM3TCBDY4M0
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-9. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and turning, there was a popping sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. The front-end popping sound also occurred while driving over bumps in the roadway. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 68,811.
Mazda Cx-9 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: JM3TCBCY4G0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Cylinder head coolant leak. No warning lights.
Mazda Cx-9 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
  • VIN: JM3TCBCYXK0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: My 2019 Mazda CX9 when you turn the steering wheel it makes a clicking noise. I brought car to a mechanic and was told there is a loose bolt in steering column. Mazda has a TSB bulletin on this issue TSB# 06-001/24 dated 01/23/2024. When I brought car to Palisades Mazda two other customers on line with me have the same issue. I looked on internet and found alot of people are having the same issue. Mazda is aware of this problem and it is a defect. Mazda is fixing this problem for cars under warranty but charging customers past warranty to replace the complete steering column to fix a loose bolt,
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
  • VIN: JM3TCBCY0J0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Over heating /coolant leak
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
  • VIN: JM3TCBCY5J0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: coolant leaks at cylinder head , Mazda of America knows issues but not willing to recall , they hava a bulletin number 01-002/23 . pls help
Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
  • VIN: JM3TCBDY7J0
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: While driving on an interstate service drive in Michigan, my 2018 Mazda CX9 GT suddenly lost power and began flashing overheating warnings. I tried to move my vehicle to a safe spot while the warning and sudden loss of power was happening, which took a moment due to traffic flow and my family being in the car. I moved the car off the road, and let it cool. I slowly drove the car to a parts store to get coolant. Once the cooling system was filled, I brought the car home and began researching the problem. According to internet threads like Reddit this is a wide spread problem happening among Mazda vehicles with several law firms researching class action lawsuits. My car is stuck at the dealership until I can find $12,000 to fix it, and sadly there are hundreds more just like me according to sites like [XXX] and [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] And includes a Mazda Service Bulletin which indicates that there are design faults in the original cylinder head that causes the issue and that repair techs should replace failed parts with the updated and redesigned cylinder head. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Latest 5 recalls Mazda Cx-9

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 47 recalls for different components of the Mazda Cx-9.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Mazda Cx-9 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
  • Consequence: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-9 2018
  • Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
  • Consequence: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-9 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2021-09-27
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-9 vehicles equipped with 60/40 split bench second-row seats. The left-side second-row seat may unexpectedly slide forward during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
  • Consequence: A seat that slides forward during a crash can transfer excessive force onto a belted occupant, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the internal parts of the affected second-row seats, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5221I.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-9 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2021-09-27
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-9 vehicles equipped with 60/40 split bench second-row seats. The left-side second-row seat may unexpectedly slide forward during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
  • Consequence: A seat that slides forward during a crash can transfer excessive force onto a belted occupant, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the internal parts of the affected second-row seats, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5221I.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-9 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.

Latest negative Mazda Cx-9 car reviews

  1. Garland Altenwerth 2025-05-15

    Vehicle year: 2007

    This car is a great option for those who want a 3rd row and 4-wheel drive without having to go for a minivan. While we did experience some issues after the first 20k miles, we made sure to change the oil and follow all recommended dealer services. Unfortunately, we did encounter some problems such as rust on the back hatch door, window and body liners falling off, and the rear wheel bearings and strut needing replacement. However, we believe that these issues can be resolved and we still recommend this car. We advise against purchasing any additional warranties as they are not supported by the dealer.

  2. Arnaldo Reynolds 2025-05-08

    Vehicle year: 2023

    Car is OK, fun to drive. However, it gets worse gas mileage than expected, around 19 mpg instead of the 26 mpg that Mazda claims. Additionally, I've experienced some issues with the electrical system.

  3. Royce Ullrich 2025-05-05

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I purchased this MAZDA used in 2008, one year after it was manufactured. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with its performance and it has been quite expensive to maintain due to the high cost of repairs. While I have owned other Japanese cars without any problems, my experience with this MAZDA has been disappointing. However, I am determined to make it last for at least another 3 years. Although I may not purchase another MAZDA in the future, I appreciate the other cars I have owned and enjoyed keeping them for at least 10 years.

  4. Laron Kohler 2025-05-01

    Vehicle year: 2015

    The CX-9 initially appeared to be a great car, with plenty of room and decent comfort. However, the fuel economy is lower than expected for a car of this size, averaging only 14-16 mpg in-town and 18 mpg on the highway. Unfortunately, the Transfer Case is a major issue that led to a negative review. The transfer case failed at only 12,500 miles, causing toxic oil fumes to fill the car through the venting system. This made my wife and daughter sick and caused respiratory issues throughout the evening and night. I found out that this is a known issue with the CX-9, and the technician informed me that they have new T-Cases on hand due to how many they replace. The Blue Tooth system also takes up to five minutes to connect, which is a minor inconvenience. Despite these issues, customer service was very accepting of responsibility and attempted to address the issue.

  5. Reinhold Skiles 2025-04-26

    Vehicle year: 2007

    There were many things I loved about the CX9, but unfortunately, it turned into a lemon. At mile 4000, I heard something fall off the car and it has been rattling ever since. The rattling was mixed in with excessive road noise, and later the two noises were joined by squeaking and creaking like an old wooden ship on the high seas. I took the CX9 to Mazda service in Vallejo at least 10 times for this issue, and they tried to repair it about 3-5 times, but with no luck. They replaced the control arm twice and the struts twice, but it's still rattling as loud as ever.

Latest positive Mazda Cx-9 car reviews

  1. Darrion Tremblay 2025-05-14

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Congratulations on your new car! It's great to hear that you found a stylish and affordable option that suits your needs. The Mazda CX-9 seems to have impressed you with its handling, powerful engine, and beautiful interior. It's also great to hear that the second row seating is adjustable for extra comfort. The Grand Touring model sounds like it has all the technology features you could want, including a heads-up display. While the infotainment system could use some improvement, it's good to know that the car has everything else you need. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the CX-9!

  2. Kamryn Emard 2025-05-14

    Vehicle year: 2007

    First thing to go on this car? The paint job! Unfortunately, rust developed in two spots that could have been prevented. Additionally, the bumper had to be replaced due to cosmetic problems. However, despite only receiving routine maintenance over the past 9 years and 125,000 miles, this vehicle has proven to be incredibly reliable. My favorite features include the subwoofer, remote start, keyless ignition, heated leather seats, acceleration, and handling. It also has just the right amount of space for our young family of 6.

  3. Willis Kuhlman 2025-05-13

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Congratulations on your new car! It sounds like you got a great deal on a well-maintained Mazda CX9. The interior with leather heated seats sounds luxurious and comfortable. It's great to hear that you've already driven it 2,000 miles with no issues. Thank you for sharing your experience and we look forward to hearing more updates from you in the future!

  4. Carmine Heidenreich 2025-05-13

    Vehicle year: 2016

    After driving this car for a month, I've learned a lot about it. Firstly, I absolutely love the car and I'm confident that I made the right choice. The ride is much smoother than the pilot or highlander, which we test drove. The interior finishes are comparable to those of Lexus, Acura, and other high-end brands. However, there are a few things you should be aware of. The rear lift gate doesn't go all the way up, which could be an issue for taller people like myself. The navigation and entertainment system are poorly designed, making it difficult to scroll through stations while driving. Additionally, you can't enter any address while driving, which could be inconvenient for both the driver and passenger. Unfortunately, there's no Android or Apple Play system. Lastly, the front seats are quite narrow, which may not be comfortable for bigger people or those who prefer more space. On the bright side, the cargo space is ample. If you need more cargo space, I recommend the Honda Pilot, but the CX-9 works perfectly for our family.

  5. Marlon Nolan 2025-05-13

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I've been looking to upgrade from my trusty, but tired Scion xD. I loved that little car, but it was getting a bit old and the line was terminated by Toyota. I looked at SUVs from Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Kia, and even Audi, but none of them had the same appeal as the CX-9. I purchased the Signature in Soul Red and elected to go with the Parchment Napa leather, which makes for a great color combination inside and out. The ride is outstanding, and the performance and handling are great. As many have mentioned before, the Infotainment system could be better, but for me, it does what I need it to and I have no complaints about it. Regarding the third row space for passengers, I don't use it, so it matters little to me. As long as fuel prices stay relatively affordable, I will continue to feed it higher octane gas for better performance, which is really nice for the little

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