Avoid: 2018, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2008 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2022
17 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 17 model years, the Mazda CX-9 has 1,481 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 47 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are service brakes and engine. 2012 drew the most complaints (221), 2022 the fewest (10).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mazda CX-9 vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $16,755–$25,100.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 |
| 2022 | 10 |
| 2021 | 39 |
| 2020 | 19 |
| 2019 | 53 |
| 2018 | 128 |
| 2017 | 61 |
| 2016 | 99 |
| 2015 | 35 |
| 2014 | 54 |
| 2013 | 68 |
| 2012 | 221 |
| 2011 | 170 |
| 2010 | 195 |
| 2009 | 59 |
| 2008 | 172 |
| 2007 | 86 |
Highest: 2012 (221 complaints). Lowest: 2022 (10).
Predominantly positive sentiment, with the vehicle widely praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, premium interior feel, and strong value proposition.
A design/manufacturing defect leading to coolant leaking into the engine, potentially causing catastrophic failure. Affects model years 2016-2020 with production dates before June 9, 2020. Warranty was extended to 10 years/120,000 miles.
Mentioned alongside the cylinder head issue as a potential problem for some vehicles.
Noted as requiring adjustment due to the vehicle's length.
Described as sport-oriented but heavier than some competitors.
Owner insights cover all generations of the CX-9. Individual model years are broken down above.
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