Mazda Cx-9 problems

mazda logo

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

Social links

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

32

2.9
  • 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

35

2.7
  • 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

35

3.1
  • 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

31

3.3
  • 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

32

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-9 2013 photo
Cx-9 2013
Mazda

65

4

27

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

34

3.1
  • 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. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Dameon Kuhlman 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 2007

    We got this vehicle as a replacement for our 2005 MPV. We were drawn to its power and styling. After driving it for 4,000 miles, we've found it to be a fun vehicle to drive, but it's starting to show some shortcomings. We had to correct two defects during pickup from the dealership, and a rattle has developed in the dashboard. During a recent snowstorm, we found that it's not great in the snow, unlike most FWD vehicles. The tires are the most likely suspect. Unfortunately, gas mileage has been disappointing. However, we're hopeful that the changes made to the 2008 model will address these issues.

Latest positive Mazda Cx-9 car reviews

  1. Floyd Gleason 2025-05-08

    Vehicle year: 2019

    Update May 2020: Hello! I wanted to share my experience with the Mazda CX-9. While the center console piano black and chrome trim may look great in the showroom, I found it to be too brittle and prone to scratches and chips. Similarly, the side plastic piece near the seat belt release chips and pits easily. These are easy fixes that I hope Mazda will address. Despite these minor issues, I must say that the CX-9 is a fantastic car. I test drove several other SUVs, including the Acura MDX and RDX, Honda Pilot Elite, Toyota Highlander and Rav 4, Lexus RX350 and GX460, and Subaru Outback 3.5 six cylinder, but nothing matched the CX-9 in terms of handling, acceleration, cornering, shifting, braking, comfort, and overall driveability. It truly is a hands-down winner. The car is also beautifully designed inside and out. I personally prefer the Grand Touring model over the Signature, as I'm not a fan of the reddish nappa leather found in the latter. The black leather in the GT model is more of a very dark gray matted leather, which I find more appealing. The Apple Car Play is a nice feature, and the satellite maps on Google Maps look particularly sharp. The Bose sound system is top-notch, and the car comes with numerous safety features. The only things I wish were standard are remote start that also starts the heated seats and steering wheel, and a third row seat that is more spacious for taller or larger passengers. I was able to get a nice discount on the price along with 0.9% financing, which made the CX-9 an even more attractive option. I highly recommend it!

  2. Dwight Crist 2025-05-08

    Vehicle year: 2015

    After owning several unreliable Jeep products, I decided to try something new. I am happy to say that the 2014 Mazda CX-9 has exceeded my expectations. It is a beautiful car that is fun to drive and has plenty of cargo space. The AWD feature was a crucial consideration for me, and I am pleased to report that the CX-9 has performed exceptionally well on treacherous journeys. With a little common sense, the CX-9 is a reliable and sturdy vehicle that can take you anywhere.

  3. Elvis Fadel 2025-05-07

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I've always been a fan of Mazda. During my college years, I owned a Mazda 929 and MX-6. The new CX-9 has exceeded my expectations in every way. The car's interior and ride are on par with any premium brand. I had been considering purchasing a Honda Pilot or a CX-9 since last year, but I wanted to wait for this year's model. It was definitely worth the wait. The Pilot felt bulky, unstable, and plasticky, while the CX-9 is top-class luxury. As an owner of a BMW, I can confidently say that for an SUV, this is the best in its class for the money. Mazda has hit a home run with the new CX-9. It's sporty and luxurious. The best compliment the car received was when a co-worker thought it was a Lexus (of course, he had no knowledge of the logos). The engine is punchy in the right RPM, although I would have preferred an option for a bigger engine. You can't tell you're driving a 2.5 turbo unless you hit the lag at lower RPM, which you would notice only once in a while. Passing and lane changing are a breeze, and it's a pleasure to drive. I highly recommend this SUV as a perfect family hauler.

  4. Brant Lind 2025-05-06

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I've had the 2017 CX-9 for 3 months, but unfortunately, I'll most likely trade it in within the next month. On the positive side, the interior is nicely appointed, it has great gas mileage, it's fun to drive, and it has decent cargo space (although not as much as a Honda Pilot). The sound and entertainment system are good, with logical and easy-to-use controls. The heads-up display and lane departure warning features within the display are great, making it a great road car that's quiet. However, the bad news for me is that I'm tall (6'4'') and simply cannot get comfortable in the driver's seat. It doesn't go back quite far enough, so my right leg is too bent, which brings me to the real problem: the center console is very high, with a hard plastic piece that protrudes about an inch and hits into the side of my knee. I literally have to drive with a towel wrapped around my right knee. I talked to Mazda and went to a dealership, but there's no replacement part or modification that they can do, so I'm selling the car. This car is not suitable for large families either in number or physical stature. Also, I don't like the light that stays on constantly near the controls for the sunroof; it's annoying at night, so I had to put tape over it. The car also sits lower and has lower clearance than some of the others in the category, so if you want to sit up high or plan to do rougher roads, it's probably not the right car for you. The CX-9 is a quality car for sure, but unfortunately, it's just not the right car for me.

  5. Cole Stanton 2025-05-03

    Vehicle year: 2008

    This car is absolutely wonderful! We love how it drives and it feels so comfortable inside, despite not looking very big from the outside. However, we did have some trouble with the navigation system. It only gave us the proper route about 1 in 5 times, and the other times it suggested routes that were hundreds of miles off course. Additionally, it grays out when going over 5mph, which is a common feature in built-in navigation systems, but it was still a bit frustrating. Overall, we highly recommend this great car, but we suggest skipping the navigation system.

Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-9?

Add car complaint
Mazda Cx-9 photo