CX-9 (2nd)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
PY
2.5L 4-cyl Turbo / 227 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Mazda CX-9 regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (4)
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-9 vehicles equipped with 60/40 split bench second-row seats. The left-side second-row seat may unexpectedly slide forward during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 CX-9 vehicles. The wiring harness may disrupt electrical communications and disable the passenger frontal air bag, turn signals, and/or engine starting system.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 CX-9 vehicles equipped with Sumitomo Falken ZIEX CT50 A/S tires, size P255/50R20 104V, having date code 1619. An incorrect rubber compound may have been used in the tire's manufacturing, allowing the tread to separate and detach.
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Alternatives in Midsize SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 problems?
The 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 has accumulated 397 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Electrical System, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Mazda CX-9 engine is most reliable?
The 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.5L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 a good used car?
The 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 397 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 have?
The 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 has 397 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9?
There are 4 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda CX-9?
Before buying a used Mazda CX-9, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Electrical System, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the CX-9?
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (15.1% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 397 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.