Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2015 Mazda CX-9 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

79/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A fun-to-drive family SUV with excellent utility, but prone to costly engine and rust issues that require careful consideration.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2015 Mazda CX-9?

The 2015 Mazda CX-9 offers a compelling blend of space and driving enjoyment for its segment, yet it comes with notable mechanical Achilles' heels. While generally robust, the potential for significant VVT system repairs and susceptibility to rust elevate the ownership risk, demanding a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance from its next owner. This isn't a hands-off purchase; it's a calculated decision for those willing to address its known weaknesses.

Biggest Strengths

  • Robust Aisin 6-speed transmission
  • Engaging driving dynamics and handling
  • Spacious and family-friendly interior

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2015 Mazda CX-9. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Systemmajor
2
Rust and Corrosionmoderate
3
Power Steering Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

2 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.

STEERING

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 2, 2015, 2013-2014 Mazda2 vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to August 8, 2014, 2014-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2013, to December 2, 2015, and 2013-2015 CX-9 vehicles manufactured December 6, 2012, to July 31, 2015. The lower mounting nuts and bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle may loosen, allowing the steering knuckle to separate.

What breaks on the 2015 Mazda CX-9?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mazda CX-9 by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Mazda CX-9. Click any year for its full report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2015 Mazda CX-9

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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Complete Owner's Guide

Already own one? Get the 13-chapter owner's guide with specs, service schedules, and fluid capacities.

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Final Step

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