"Driving Matters" is the tagline Mazda uses to promote its CX-9 three-row family mover, casting it as the driver’s choice among the soccer-mom mobile crowd. Turns out that this slogan is quite apt; the CX-9 is particularly agile, comfortable riding, and quiet among affordable midsized three-row SUVs. Long, sleek, and rakish, the CX-9 has a presence that contrasts with some rivals that come across as tall wagons in a "rugged" off-roader costume. Although we have some quibbles over accommodations, controls, and feature content, the CX-9 is a compelling alternative to the more popular players.
Mazda’s flagship benefits from a recent redesign, losing 250 pounds compared to the previous model and offering only a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Doing more with less is the Mazda mantra, forced from being a small company with a shoestring budget.
In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.
Read more about extended warranties
4-door SUV
6-speed Automatic
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2018 Mazda CX-9 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.
"The rotors became warped at 20000 miles and were replaced under warranty."
Anonymous, FL (2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors.
"Car out of service for 50 out of the first 90 days of ownership. This car is a Lemon and Mazda is refusing to make this right. I will never buy another Mazda (and I have owned 4 previously)"
Michael D., NY (2018 Mazda CX-9 Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.
"Sunroof glass would not fully close. I took it to the service department for adjustment."
Curt W., ID (2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.
Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.
Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.
Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.
Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.
Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top.
Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system
Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.
"A rear caliper had to be replaced in a rear wheel at 20000 miles. At the same time the rotors were replaced. It was also done under warranty."
Anonymous, FL (2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)