Mazda CX-9 Years To Avoid | All 17 Best & Worst Years 2023

by
Source: NetCarShow

The Mazda CX-9 is a three-row midsize SUV. Since its debut in 2006, Mazda has delivered an updated model of the CX-9 every year. So, how do you choose which model to buy and which to avoid when there are so many options to choose from?

For this reason, we’ll go over the best and worst model years for the Mazda CX-9.

Mazda CX-9 years to avoid include 2007-2014; they are considered the worst. The best years for Mazda CX-9 are from 2015-2023. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.

Here Are The Mazda CX-9 Years To Avoid

The Mazda CX-9 is presently in its second generation. It has been upgraded to the point where it is now a reliable SUV. It’s better to avoid Mazda CX-9 manufactured between 2007 and 2014, though.

8. Worst Year: 2014 Mazda CX-9 (3.88 Rating)

Source: The car connection

According to NHTSA and automobile owners, the 2014 Mazda CX-9 suffered several problems. With 16 issues, the vehicle’s engine and engine cooling is the leading cause of failures. Equipment issues (11 total) are the second most common problem.

The other common complaints for the 2014 model year were the faulty brakes and the alternator.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

7. Worst Year: 2013 Mazda CX-9 (3.74 Rating)

Source: The Auto Channel

The engine, the brakes, and the airbags of the 2013 Mazda CX-9 have received the most complaints. Some vehicle owners report that at about 99,000 miles, the water pump fails. They also have issues with the engine breaking out at 86,000 miles.

A poor pump brake pedal is another frequently voiced concern. The typical occurrence of this problem is at 64,000 miles.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

6. Worst Year: 2007 Mazda CX-9 (3.65 Rating)

Source: Motor Trend

The 2007 CX-9’s drivetrain, suspension, and airbags have reported a few issues. However, the model’s main issues are the rear differential failing, the bearings wearing out too soon, and the transfer case being noisy and leaky.

The average lifespan of a rear differential is only 79,000 miles before it fails. Another common issue at 28,000 miles is premature bearing wear, while the transfer case starts making a lot of noise and leaks around 99,000 miles.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

5. Worst Year: 2009 Mazda CX-9 (3.61 Rating)

Source: Car Body Design

There were 57 reports of problems with the 2009 Mazda CX-9. Window failure after 95,000 miles, a melted light bulb harness at 95,000 miles, and a leaky sunroof following a car wash at 25,000 miles are the worst problems reported. Owners made a few reports of problems with the airbags and brakes.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

4. Worst Year: 2011 Mazda CX-9 (3.58 Rating)

Source: Auto review site

Many issues with the brakes and airbags have been reported for the 2011 Mazda CX-9. The brakes were the source of the most reported problems and costs. The brakes stopped working at 83,000 miles, made a hissing noise at 88,000 miles, and the brake booster failed at 107,000 miles.

This model was recalled because the front suspension ball joint rusts easily. In addition, there were some malfunctions in the drivetrain.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

3. Worst Year: 2008 Mazda CX-9 (3.38 Rating)

Source: The Detroit bureau

The engine, brakes, wheels, suspension, airbags, and steering are the most often reported 2008 Mazda CX-9 issues. However, at 102,000 miles, the water pump failed, which was the worst problem. At 133,000 miles, the brake booster master cylinder failed.

Wheels that are stained and dusty after 31,000 miles are another major issue.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

2. Worst Year: 2012 Mazda CX-9  (3.35 Rating)

Source: crazy-expensive cars

The 2012 model year receives the second-most total complaints, most frequently about the vehicle’s braking system. The remaining details concern the automobile’s powertrain, transmission, and safety features.

A transmission failure was recorded at 36,000 miles, heavy braking at 61,000 miles, and a brake power boost failure at 67,000 miles. The brake booster failure was another problem that Takata recalled a solution for. Although dangerous, it’s tolerable because of the quick and cheap solution.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

1. Worst Year: 2010 Mazda CX-9 (3.34 Rating)

Source: avtoprofy.ru

The 2010 Mazda CX-9 model is the worst of the worst. This model is the one that should be avoided at any cost. The brakes, engine, transmission, and suspension receive the most complaints for the 2010 model year.

At 100,000 miles, the engine dies; at 99,000 miles, the brakes get tough; and at 104,000 miles, the water pump breaks out. Due to problems with the brake booster and the engine, the car was recalled six times.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

Best Mazda CX-9 Years To Buy

The best model years for the Mazda CX-9 are between 2015 and 2023. These are the most reliable models available today.

9. Best Year: 2015 Mazda CX-9 (4.11 Rating)

Source: Top Speed

According to NHTSA ratings, the 2015 Mazda CX-9 was the first generation’s most refined and reliable model. When compared to Mazda’s other recent offerings, the CX-9 from 2015 stands out. It’s the only Mazda with a V-6 engine and the largest car in the lineup.

Even if its fuel economy isn’t great, it’s still one of the best choices for a three-row crossover, and its agile handling makes up for it.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

8. Best Year: 2018 Mazda CX-9 (4.20 Rating)

Source: New SUV

The 2018 CX-9 is another excellent option if you’d like something a little old but still somewhat up-to-date. Blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alerts, and automatic emergency brakes are just some of the new safety features that came standard for 2018.

Mazda’s innovative G-Vectoring Control, which aids in cornering stability, is now standard equipment across the board.

Related: 11 Best & Worst Mazda CX-5 Years | 2023 Rated

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

7. Best Year: 2019 Mazda CX-9 (4.28 Rating)

Source: Pinterest / wildsau.ca

The 2019 CX-9 is another model that has performed exceptionally well. It has received rave reviews from both critics and owners. For the 2019 CX-9, many innovations and accessories were made available as standard and upgrades.

Topping the list is the standardization of smartphone integration in the Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature grades. Optional equipment included a surround-view camera system, heated and cooled front seats, a digital gauge display, power-folding exterior mirrors, and a mirror without a frame for backward visibility.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

6. Best Year: 2021 Mazda CX-9 (4.31 Rating)

Source: Car and Drive

The 2021 CX-9 is another excellent option because of its improved infotainment system and 10.3-inch touchscreen display. The Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature grades included a wireless charging station for mobile devices. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were installed as industry standards for all trim levels.

This model’s nimble handling and smooth ride quality have earned it high marks from owners. J.D. Power ranked the 2021 CX-9 as the first Upper Midsize SUV.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

5. Best Year: 2016 Mazda CX-9 (4.37 Rating)

Source: Auto Guide

The new 2016 Mazda CX-9 looks great both inside and outside, but it has more going for it than just good looks. The 2016 model year brings a new look to the Mazda CX-9. It’s fun to drive and has all the amenities your expanding family needs.

It has a higher projected fuel economy compared to others in its class. Its premium Signature trim is on par with those from other high-end manufacturers. The Mazda CX-9 ranked first as a Best Used SUV for 2016 on Edmunds.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

4. Best Year: 2017 Mazda CX-9 (4.40 Rating)

Source: Yahoo Finance

Although the 2017 Mazda CX-9 lacks good seating, it is otherwise excellent, providing more bang for the buck and a more satisfying driving experience than most of its competitors. It has better features and a better interior, both of which get even better with use.

It has received universal praise from its owners, who say it is a reliable automobile. This model’s responsive handling, high-end aesthetic, and good fuel economy were also highly regarded.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

3. Best Year: 2020 Mazda CX-9 (4.42 Rating)

Source: Car and Drive

Due to its superior reliability, sporty handling, and luxurious inside, the 2020 CX-9 is one of our highest-rated vehicles. In 2020, Mazda made a number of improvements to the CX-9, including making the i-Activsense suite of driving aids standard equipment.

This consists of lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian recognition.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

2. Best Year: 2022 Mazda CX-9 (4.45 Rating)

Source: Auto Trader

The 2022 CX-9 is another excellent option because it comes standard with all-wheel drive and is more fuel efficient than many competitors. A new midrange Touring Plus version is available in the 2022 model.

In addition to the standard equipment found in the Touring model, this one added ventilated front seats, black 20-inch alloy wheels, black grille trim, power-adjustable front seats, roof rails made of aluminum, and a frameless rearview mirror.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

1. Best Year: 2023 Mazda CX-9 (4.46 Rating)

Source: Mazda

The brand-new 2023 CX-9 comes standard with every convenience feature and luxury trim level previously reserved for BMWs. Due to removing the Sport trim level in 2023, the starting price increased to far over $40,000.

With the price increase, the Touring package was made the standard offering. Standard equipment includes a sunroof, captain’s chairs in the second row, fog lights, and a wireless charging station.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are The Common Issues With Mazda CX-9?

Source: YouTube / 1A Auto

One of the more well-liked SUVs among owners is the Mazda CX-9. However, the CX-9 was not immune to the usual mechanical issues:

Transmission Problems:

The CX-9 is notorious for its transmission problems, including harsh shifts, jerks, hesitations, and so forth. Some experts believe a damaged valve body or malfunctioning shift solenoids may be to blame, while others point to software as the root of the problem.

Engine Failure:

The Mazda CX-9 avoids the typical engine problems that plague other vehicles and instead goes straight to the point of failure. The issue usually arises after a year of driving or 99,000 miles. To fix the problem, you’ll need a brand-new, very pricey engine.

Issues with Takata Airbags and Their Recall:

The Takata recall is one of the largest in automotive history. Dangers to the driver and passengers, including airbags exploding, were addressed in the recall.

Defective Water Pump

Collateral damage from a defective water pump is the most common complaint about the CX-9 on CarComplaints.com. The engine could break down if the coolant leaked into the oil when the water pump failed.

Defective Brake Power Boost Unit:

Another issue to watch is a failing brake power boost unit. While braking still works, you’ll have to travel further before stopping, increasing the risk of an accident.

FAQ

1. Is Mazda CX-9 A Good Car?

The Mazda CX-9 is a great car in most respects. It has a long lifespan, and maintenance costs are lower than those of other midsize SUVs. The Mazda CX-9 was rated as the most reliable full-size SUV by RepairPal, which gave it a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating.

Related: Are Mazda Cars Reliable? Examining the Evidence

2. How Many Miles Will Mazda CX-9 Last?

The average lifespan of a Mazda CX-9, with regular maintenance and careful driving, is between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers. At 15,000 miles per year, it would last between 13 and 17 years before breaking down or requiring expensive repairs.

3. Is It Expensive To Maintain Mazda CX-9?

No, It is not expensive to maintain your Mazda CX-9. You can expect to spend roughly $7,574 on repairs and upkeep over the first decade of owning a Mazda CX-9, which is $1,559 less than the average industry price for a popular SUV.

In addition, a CX-9 has a 21.93% chance of needing major repairs.

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed every available Mazda CX-9 model. The years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 are Mazda CX-9 years to avoid. These years were well-known for various problems, including faulty brakes, airbags, and failed water pumps and engines.

The best years to purchase a Mazda CX-9 are 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 or 2023.

0 0 votes
Article Rating

Related Posts

Kia Sorento Years To Avoid | Top 15 Best & Worst Years 2023
Acura MDX Years To Avoid | 22 Best & Worst Models 2023
Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid | 14 Best & Worst Years 2023
Jeep Liberty Years To Avoid | 11 Best & Worst Years
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments