2014 Mazda CX-9 Reliability ReportKeepScore 83/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2014 Mazda CX-9
- Outscores the 2012 Mazda CX-9 by 5 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: rear suspension components (moderate severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
2014 Mazda CX-9: Buy or Avoid?
The 2014 Mazda CX-9 represents a compelling used SUV, offering excellent driving dynamics and a generally robust powertrain. While you'll need to pay attention to common suspension wear and some electrical quirks, it stands as a dependable family hauler that's more engaging to drive than its peers.
The 2014 Mazda CX-9 is a highly recommendable used SUV, balancing Mazda's signature driving enjoyment with solid reliability. With its dependable powertrain and manageable common issues, it offers significant value as a stylish and practical family vehicle.
Best Model Years
2010-2015 (Late first generation)
Years to Avoid
None specifically for reliability, but earlier models (2007-2009) might show more wear and minor refinements were made in later years.
Biggest Strengths
- Reliable 3.7L V6 engine and Aisin automatic transmission
- Engaging driving dynamics and handling for an SUV
- Solid body structure and interior materials for its class
2014 Mazda CX-9 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 Mazda CX-9, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The rear lower control arm bushings and sway bar end links are prone to premature wear, leading to clunking noises, poor alignment, and compromised ride quality.
Common complaints include glitches with the infotainment system (freezing, Bluetooth issues), intermittent power window switch failures, and occasional TPMS sensor malfunctions.
While not universal, models in northern climates often show rust on the rear wheel arches, subframe components, and exhaust, due to inadequate undercoating or paint chipping.
2014 Mazda CX-9 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Mazda CX-9 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the CX-9 should still feel new with minimal wear. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Any issues at this stage are likely isolated manufacturing defects.
Maintenance Zone
This is a crucial service interval. Expect to address wear items like tires and brakes. Pay close attention to the rear suspension for signs of bushing wear and ensure all fluids are serviced (transmission, differential, transfer case if…
Elevated Risk Zone
Major suspension components like lower control arm bushings often require replacement here. This is also the mileage where valve cover gasket leaks might appear, and the internal water pump should be on your radar for proactive inspectio…
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, nearly all wear items will have likely been replaced once. Focus shifts to maintaining the engine and transmission, and watching for the infrequent but costly internal water pump failure. Rust can become a significa…
2014 Mazda CX-9 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Mazda CX-9 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,200 occasionally (e.g., suspension work)
How Long Does the 2014 Mazda CX-9 Last?
Focus on finding a well-maintained example with detailed service records. Expect to address common wear items in the suspension around 60k-90k miles, but the core powertrain is built to last well beyond 150,000 miles with proper care.
What 2014 Mazda CX-9 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling for an SUV
- Stylish exterior design that still looks good today
- Robust and generally trouble-free 3.7L V6 engine
- Comfortable front and second-row seating
Common Frustrations
- Third-row seating is cramped for adults and best for occasional use
- Older infotainment system can be clunky and lacks modern features
- Road noise can be pronounced at highway speeds
- Premature rear suspension component wear is a consistent annoyance
Who Should Buy the 2014 Mazda CX-9?
Best For
- Families needing occasional third-row seating
- Drivers who prioritize engaging handling in an SUV
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation with style
Not Ideal For
- Large families requiring regular, spacious third-row use
- Tech enthusiasts expecting cutting-edge infotainment
How the 2014 Mazda CX-9 Compares to Rivals
The CX-9 offers a more engaging and 'driver-focused' experience than most of its competitors while largely matching their reliability, making it a strong contender in the segment.
More Reliable Than
- Dodge Journey (significantly more reliable)
- Ford Edge (early models, particularly with 6-speed auto issues)
- Nissan Pathfinder (CVT reliability issues in this era)
Comparable To
- Honda Pilot (slightly behind on third-row space, but comparable overall reliability)
- Toyota Highlander (very close, but CX-9 often offers better value and driving feel)
Safety Recalls on the 2014 Mazda CX-9
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Mazda CX-9 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, unless covered in "Zone A," Mazda is recalling certain 2011-2013 Mazda6, 2011-2012 CX-7, and 2011-2015 CX-9 sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless covered in Zone A or Zone B, Mazda is recalling certain 2010-2013 Mazda6, 2010-2012 CX-7, and 2010-2015 CX-9 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 CX-9 vehicles manufactured October 24, 2006, to December 28, 2013. The affected vehicles have front suspension ball joints that may corrode from water leaking into the fitting.
What breaks on the 2014 Mazda CX-9?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Mazda CX-9 — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mazda CX-9. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2014s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2014 Mazda CX-9
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Frequently Asked Questions
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