Mazda Cx-9 ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2007–2025)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Mazda Cx-9 we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Cx-9 across generations.
Average Score
83/100
Best Year
2021 Mazda Cx-9
Score 89
Weakest Year
2007 Mazda Cx-9
Score 78
Every Mazda Cx-9 Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A premium-feeling, highly reliable three-row SUV that delivers an excellent driving experience with minimal long-term concerns.
Top risks: Infotainment System · Engine Intake Valve Carbon Buildup · Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator
A top-tier choice for reliability and driving enjoyment, the CX-9 offers exceptional value with minimal risk.
Top risks: Infotainment System · Brake Components · Power Liftgate Actuator
A reliable, engaging, and well-built family SUV that offers significant value and peace of mind for years to come.
Top risks: Infotainment System · Suspension Bushings/End Links · PCV Valve / Oil Consumption (Long-Term)
A premium-feeling family SUV with a strong reliability record, offering peace of mind for the long haul.
Top risks: Infotainment System · Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator · Front Suspension Bushings/Links
A premium-feeling, fun-to-drive family SUV that largely avoids major headaches, offering strong long-term value.
Top risks: Infotainment & Electrical · Front Suspension Components · Power Liftgate / Body Accessories
A premium-feeling, fun-to-drive SUV with minor electronic quirks that shouldn't deter a savvy buyer.
Top risks: Electrical/Infotainment System · Fuel System · Suspension Components
A remarkably dependable and enjoyable family SUV, built to last with proper care.
Top risks: Rear Differential · Infotainment System · Turbocharger PCV Valve
A solid, dependable family hauler built on a legacy of strong Mazda engineering.
Top risks: Infotainment System · Power Liftgate Mechanism · AC Compressor/Condenser
A spirited and reliable family SUV, provided you address its predictable suspension and potential rust concerns.
Top risks: Rear Suspension Components · Electrical System & Infotainment · Rust & Corrosion
A fun-to-drive family hauler that offers solid reliability, provided you're aware of its specific engine weak points.
Top risks: Engine (2.5T Turbocharger) · Engine (Coolant Leak) · Electrical (Infotainment System)
A stylish, fun-to-drive family SUV that demands careful inspection of its unique turbocharged engine and diligent maintenance.
Top risks: Turbocharger System · Infotainment System (Mazda Connect) · Coolant System
A fun-to-drive family SUV with excellent utility, but prone to costly engine and rust issues that require careful consideration.
Top risks: Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System · Rust and Corrosion · Power Steering System
A capable family hauler, but AWD models carry a significant drivetrain risk that demands careful inspection.
Top risks: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) · Transmission · Water Pump & VVT System
A capable family hauler that offers a spirited drive, but requires a thorough pre-purchase inspection and proactive maintenance to mitigate specific known weaknesses.
Top risks: Power Steering System · Engine (VVT/Timing Chain) · Electrical (Power Liftgate)
A stylish and fun-to-drive family SUV, but specific mechanical weaknesses demand careful inspection and maintenance.
Top risks: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) · Water Pump / Cooling System · Automatic Transmission
A fun-to-drive family hauler that demands careful vetting and proactive maintenance to avoid substantial repair bills.
Top risks: Engine (VVT System) · Automatic Transmission · Power Steering System
A fun-to-drive family hauler that requires proactive maintenance to avoid costly surprises.
Top risks: Engine Cooling System · Automatic Transmission · Rust and Corrosion
A fun-to-drive family SUV that demands specific pre-purchase scrutiny and proactive maintenance to mitigate significant drivetrain risks.
Top risks: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) · Engine Water Pump · Rust and Corrosion
A fun-to-drive family hauler that requires diligent maintenance and careful inspection to navigate its significant known mechanical flaws.
Top risks: Engine - Water Pump · Power Steering System · Rust and Corrosion
Problems That Follow the Cx-9 Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Infotainment System
Appears in 6 model years · 32% of generations
Power Steering System
Appears in 4 model years · 21% of generations
Rust and Corrosion
Appears in 4 model years · 21% of generations
Power Transfer Unit (PTU)
Appears in 3 model years · 16% of generations
Automatic Transmission
Appears in 3 model years · 16% of generations
Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator
Appears in 2 model years · 11% of generations