The Mazda CX-9 has been produced since 2006 and released on the market annually. With so many models to pick from, how can you determine which to buy and which to pass up?
Due to this, we will discuss the best and worst years for the Mazda CX-9.
Contents
Mazda CX-9 Overview
Mazda CX-9 is a midsize crossover SUV that debuted in April 2006 and is still produced today. Although the Mazda CX-9 was assembled and manufactured in Japan, this line of vehicles does not abide by Japanese vehicle size regulations, so it is not sold there.
Instead, models from two generations exist. While some are enjoyable to drive, others are not.
The best Mazda CX-9 years are 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. These are the models that function the best and have the fewest issues. Conversely, the worst years for Mazda CX-9 are 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.
Is Mazda CX-9 a Reliable Car?
Numerous consumer polls demonstrate the Mazda CX-9’s high level of dependability. Most of these reviews received an approval rating of 80%, with some models receiving an A+.
Besides the positive reviews, it outperforms midsize SUVs and has fewer repair costs.
The Mazda CX-9 Life Expectancy
A Mazda CX-9 should typically range between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, which is a good number for mid-sized SUVs if you travel 15,000 miles yearly because they will last at least 13 and slightly longer than 16 years.
However, depending on how you care for the vehicle, you can significantly lengthen or decrease this period.
Mazda CX-9 Common Problems
Mazda CX-9 wants an ideal SUV, but it has some shortcomings. Here are some of the Mazda CX-9’s most typical issues and what to expect if you buy one.
Failing Engine
Other vehicles commonly experience various engine issues that ultimately fail, but the Mazda CX-9 skips right to the end. The problem manifests typically after about a year or 99,000 miles of driving.
The only option to repair the issue is acquiring a new engine, which is quite expensive.
Failing Water Pump
This problem is devastating as it affects the pump while making the coolant flow into the engine. The engine sustains severe damage when this happens and eventually stops working.
The Mazda CX-9 typically experiences the issue after approximately 102,000 kilometers, which is still within the acceptable range.
Airbag Problems and the Takata Recall
The Takata recall is a major one in the auto industry’s history. The recall addressed issues such as exploding airbags that are dangerous to the driver and passengers.
The recall impacted millions of vehicles from numerous manufacturers, including Mazda’s CX-9 lineup.
Brake Booster Failure
Customers reported that the brake power assist stopped working, causing the vehicle to stop while driving. The government started looking into it because all the evidence pointed to defective brake boosters.
The investigation revealed that the diaphragms of the rake boosters ripped, leading to leaks that grew the issue over time.
Mazda CX-9 Years to Avoid
The Mazda CX-9 is a terrific example of a mid-sized Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). It drives and feels like a regular car but has a lot of room for passengers and goods, making it ideal for larger families.
The lineup offers a lot of power, excellent handling, and the best performance.
However, there are a few years that you should avoid when looking for a Mazda CX-9. Here are the top Mazda CX-9 models to avoid.
2010 Mazda CX-9
Engine problems are far more expensive to repair, considering you must replace the entire engine. Most 2010 Mazda CX-9 owners complained about a brake booster issue in the vehicle.
The vehicle underwent six recalls due to the brake booster and engine issues.
2011 Mazda CX-9
The 2011 Mazda CX-9 experienced the same brake booster issue as the 2010 version, which gravely jeopardized the safety of everyone in and outside the car.
The front suspension ball joint was susceptible to rusting, which led to a recall of this model. In addition, there were minor issues with the drivetrain.
2012 Mazda CX-9
The 2012 Mazda CX-9 had a lot of issues, according to the NHTSA and car owners. The main problem with the 2012 Mazda CX-9, which damaged the reputation of the entire line, was the brake booster.
Among the four recalls on this Mazda model was the Takata recall, in which the airbags exploded and shot metal fragments into the passengers.
The Takata recall also addressed the brake booster failure issue. However, it’s alright considering the simple and inexpensive fix, but it is perilous.
2013 Mazda CX-9
After the 2012 Mazda CX-9 accident, the manufacturer put a lot of effort into fixing the model’s issues. However, despite having half as many problems as the 2012 model, the 2013 Mazda CX-9 still had issues.
The brake booster was still causing issues, which put everyone on the road in danger. It was the company’s most significant issue. The airbags continued to deploy, and the ball joint was still rusting.
Best Years for Mazda CX-9
Despite some subpar model years, the Mazda CX-9 has consistently been a dependable SUV. Therefore, you can purchase a Mazda CX-9 from one of the following model years if you want to buy a reliable SUV:
2017 Mazda CX-9
Despite lacking chairs, the 2017 Mazda CX-9 is ideal as it offers outstanding value and a superior driving experience compared to most of its rivals. It boasts more features and a better interior, which improves over time. Its owners are entirely complimentary of it and consider it a very dependable vehicle. It is an enjoyable SUV to drive.
2018 Mazda CX-9
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 paved the way for the 2019 model. It offers four trim levels, excellent handling, a potent engine, and many innovative active safety technologies as standard equipment, including blind-spot recognition and intelligent brake support.
2019 Mazda CX-9
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is a fantastic vehicle, and both owners and drivers agree to this. It has a responsive drivetrain and is simple to operate. In addition, the interior of some trims is luxurious, which improves their comfort.
The model also introduced four distinct trims to the market, each featuring a fantastic heads-up display that provided helpful information and adaptive cruise control.
This Mazda CX-9 was rated as having one of the best driving experiences among vehicles in its class.
2020 Mazda CX-9
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 attempts to capitalize on the popularity of the 2019 Mazda CX-9.
Still, it is unsuccessful because, other than a new set of active safety features like adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning, it only provides something unique that distinguishes it from the 2019 model.
However, it has the same level of strength and agility and four trims with excellent interiors.
Is Mazda CX-9 a Good Car, Generally?
The Mazda CX-9 is generally a fantastic vehicle. In addition to having a lengthy lifespan, it is less expensive to repair than comparable midsize SUVs.
This fact makes it necessary to search for an SUV that drives smoothly and turns quickly.
Mazda CX-9 FAQs
Here are the various questions that most SUV owners ask regarding Mazda CX-9:
How many miles will a Mazda CX-9 last?
If properly maintained, driven cautiously, and taken care of, the Mazda CX-9 can typically go between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers.
It could survive 13 to 17 years at 15,000 miles per year before breaking down or needing pricey repairs.
Are Mazda CX-9 expensive to maintain?
In the first ten years of owning a Mazda CX-9, you may incur maintenance and repair costs of about $7,574, which is $1,559 cheaper than the typical industry price for a well-liked SUV.
Additionally, there is a 21.93% likelihood that a CX-9 will require extensive repair.
Do Mazda CX-9 hold their value?
A Mazda CX-9 will be worth around $30,504 on the market in five years, having lost 32% of its value. The value of a 2020 Mazda CX-9 is anticipated to decline by 58% after five years.
Its value is predicted to decrease by nearly $22,208 in 5 years, from approximately $38,290 to $16,082.
How much should I pay for a Mazda CX-9?
While other vehicles like to brag about how they can fit child seats in the third row or how much they love dirt, the Mazda CX-9 is all about style and speed.
The three-row midsize SUV segment, where the Mazda CX-9 competes in 2023, has its own set of regulations. Its pricing starts at $38,750.
What SUV is comparable to the Mazda CX-9?
The Mazda CX-9 and Volvo XC90 are more comparable than you might expect, despite starting at differing pricing. They are perfect for families due to their three rows of seating and excellent safety records.
Three rows of seats and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation are two of the Volvo XC90’s numerous similarities to the CX-9. Still, the Volvo costs significantly more with more excellent cabin and powertrain options.
As a result, the Mazda is a great option if you’re looking for a good SUV for your family without breaking the bank.
