Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (210 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2012
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentProblematic turbocharged 2.3L gasoline engine
Widely reported as unreliable, with high repair costs and long-term failure concerns.
- Very frequentPoor fuel economy
Noted for both gasoline and diesel engines, especially in city or heavy traffic conditions. Diesel variant specifically criticized for high consumption on short trips.
- RecurrentTransmission sensitivity
Gearboxes described as sensitive and expensive to repair; careful driving and regular fluid changes advised.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentOil system issues
Unreliable oil level sensors (particularly noted on diesel), requiring manual checks. General oil leaks are also mentioned.
- RecurrentAdBlue system faults (Diesel)
Sensor problems are described as a well-known, costly issue, with some owners opting to disable the system.
- IsolatedWhining engine noises
Isolated reports of whining sounds from the engine bay, cause unspecified.
- IsolatedEngine stuttering (2.5L)
Isolated report of sputtering and irregular idle without check engine lights, cause undiagnosed.
The version owners recommend
The consensus strongly favors avoiding the turbocharged 2.3L gasoline engine. Among available options, the naturally aspirated 2.5L gasoline engine is recommended for better reliability, though it is noted to be underpowered. For diesel markets, the higher-output 172 HP diesel is preferred over the 120 HP version, which is described as underwhelming. No specific trim or model year is highlighted as superior beyond powertrain selection.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain. The vehicle is praised for its attractive styling, comfortable and well-appointed interior, and capable driving dynamics, particularly on open roads. However, significant and very frequent criticism is directed at the reliability and long-term ownership costs of the turbocharged gasoline engine (2.3L), which is widely reported to be problematic and expensive to repair. The naturally aspirated 2.5L engine is viewed as more reliable but underpowered. The diesel variant (2.2L) receives praise for its clutch durability and performance but is noted for poor fuel economy in city driving and potential issues with the AdBlue system. Overall, the CX-7 is seen as a high-risk used purchase unless the specific engine history is thoroughly vetted, with the turbo model strongly discouraged by the community.
Positioning vs competitors
Insufficient owner data available.
Recommended configurations
- Avoid the turbocharged 2.3L gasoline engine entirely. - For diesel models, choose the 172 HP version over the 120 HP variant. - Pre-purchase inspection is considered mandatory, with a focus on transmission health, oil leaks, and (for diesels) the AdBlue system. - For diesel models, frequent oil level checks (every 3 months) are recommended due to unreliable oil sensors. - Regular maintenance is emphasized: oil and filter changes every 15,000 km and transmission fluid changes every 30,000 km for optimal performance.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize style and driving experience and are willing to accept higher potential maintenance costs, provided they select a non-turbo model. Recommended for open-road driving rather than short, stop-start city commutes, especially for diesel variants. NOT recommended for buyers seeking a low-maintenance, reliable used SUV without extensive mechanical vetting. Essential to have any potential purchase thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic, with particular attention to the engine, transmission, and any signs of fluid leaks. Purchase only with a complete service history. Be prepared for higher fuel costs, as both gasoline and diesel engines are reported to have poor fuel economy, particularly in urban conditions.
Remarks
The provided feedback spans multiple model years (2007-2012) and three distinct powertrains (2.3L Turbo, 2.5L NA, 2.2L Diesel), making unified conclusions difficult. The overwhelming consensus is that the turbocharged model is a liability. The diesel model, while appreciated for its drivetrain, comes with region-specific complexities (AdBlue) and is not relevant to all markets. Valuation is low, with examples in fair condition with high mileage (120,000+ miles or 190,000+ km) having trade-in values cited around $1,700-$2,200 USD and private party values around $3,500 USD. This reflects the model's age and perceived reliability risks. Analysis based on approximately 10 substantive owner discussions focused on the CX-7.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2007. Years to avoid: 2007Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Mazda CX-7 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 39 | 4 | suspension |
| 2011 | 153 | 4 | suspension |
| 2010 | 155 | 5 | suspension |
| 2009 | 64 | 6 | suspension |
| 2008 | 191 | 5 | air bags |
| 2007 | 528 | 5 | engine and engine cooling |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices29 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2012 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V717000
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.
2012 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V782000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
2012 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V457000
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2012 CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda6 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 included in "Zone A" above, Mazda is recalling certain 2009 CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda6 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Mazda is recalling certain 2007-2008 CX-7 and CX-9 sold, or 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. 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 rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2012 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 16V593000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Mazda CX-7 vehicles manufactured February 14, 2006, to May 9, 2012. In the affected vehicles, water may enter the front suspension ball joint fittings. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as from driving on snowy roads that have been treated, the ball joint may corrode and separate from the lower control arm, resulting in a loss of steering control.
2011 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V717000
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.
2011 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V782000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
2011 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V429000
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2011 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 16V593000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Mazda CX-7 vehicles manufactured February 14, 2006, to May 9, 2012. In the affected vehicles, water may enter the front suspension ball joint fittings. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as from driving on snowy roads that have been treated, the ball joint may corrode and separate from the lower control arm, resulting in a loss of steering control.
2010 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V717000
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.
2010 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V782000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
2010 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V429000
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2010 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V018000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2013 Mazda6 and 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 2010 Mazda6, CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Additionally, unless covered in Zone A or Zone B, Mazda is recalling certain 2009 Mazda6, CX-7, and 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.
2010 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 16V593000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Mazda CX-7 vehicles manufactured February 14, 2006, to May 9, 2012. In the affected vehicles, water may enter the front suspension ball joint fittings. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as from driving on snowy roads that have been treated, the ball joint may corrode and separate from the lower control arm, resulting in a loss of steering control.
2009 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V782000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
2009 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V429000
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
14 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.5
2.5L 4-cylinder · 161 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2009–2012