In the three-seat midsize SUV class, the Mazda CX-9 might not be the most popular choice, but in no way is it inferior to its contemporaries. With a standard V6 engine, potent handling capabilities, and smooth ride quality, the vehicle proves to be an absolute peach. Even on the inside, it is as versatile and provides a capacious cabin that can seat seven passengers, without an iota of doubt. Though the 2014 iteration struggles with a less intuitive touchscreen system, CX-9’s reliability keeps it in the race. The SUV has just 40 complaints registered to its name, while it has been called back thrice. Most of its issues are mechanical in nature, and currently, there is one investigation against the vehicle’s suspension system. Nonetheless, the family hauler’s hassle-free ownership experience allows it to deliver the best bang for the buck. The 2014 CX-9 is priced upward of $27,000 and in its segment, it competes against the likes of the Honda Pilot, the Kia Sorento, and the Hyundai Santa Fe. In a pool of reliable Japanese and Korean offerings, can Mazda find itself leading in the segment? Let’s find out.
2014 Mazda CX-9 User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Issues with the airbag inflator: The 2014 Mazda CX-9 is one among several models from the brand affected by the TAKATA recall. This recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 18V717000, deals with the possible explosion of the passenger airbag inflator upon deployment. However, across the current model year, buyers have reported the parts for repair being unavailable with the dealerships, which has resulted in delayed remedy.
Mechanical Complaints
- Failure of water pump: The Mazda CX-9 water pump failure is a known issue in the current generation. In several cases, complainants have recorded the vehicle losing power and stalling inadvertently. Where a diagnosis was conducted, a fractured water pump has been attributed as the underlying reason, which causes a failure of the timing chain or leaking of coolant that results in an engine seizure. Currently, the illumination of the check engine light is the only known symptom, while the replacement of the water pump is the only possible solution. However, it is immensely expensive.
- Issues with the braking system: Among the Mazda CX-9 issues, buyers have reported the brake pedal becoming extremely mushy, which reduces the braking capabilities. As a result, the vehicle takes a longer time and distance than usual to come to a halt. In most cases, a master cylinder failure causes the braking system to deliver substandard performances and requires replacement.
- Problems with the suspension: Among the list of CX-9 common problems, complainants have recorded the vehicle making a squeaking noise when making a turn. This happens due to the corrosion of the ball bearings and joints. Currently, there is one recall introduced by Mazda that deals with the issue, referenced by NHTSA ID 15V451000.
Structural Complaints
- Variegated structural concerns: The Mazda CX-9 problems list also includes the random explosion of the sunroof. In a few cases, buyers have reported the sunroof shattering without any impact or incidence. Additionally, in one-off cases, users of the midsize SUV have also recorded the rear window exploding and the rear windshield wiper ceasing operation, unexpectedly.
2014 Mazda CX-9 Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
12th Oct 2018 |
18V717000 |
The explosion of the passenger airbag inflator |
A propellant degradation due to exposure to humidity can result in the passenger airbag inflator exploding upon deployment. |
Dealers will replace the passenger airbag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of cost. |
|
2. |
11th Apr 2016 |
16V203000 |
Possible steering loss |
Due to the loosening of the mounting bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle assembly, the steering knuckle might separate. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the bolts and then correctly tighten them, free of charge. |
|
3. |
20th July 2015 |
15V451000 |
Corrosion of ball joints |
Due to a water leak, the suspension ball joints may corrode. |
Dealers will replace the left and right lower front control arms, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2014 Mazda CX-9?
The 2014 Mazda CX-9 like most of its iterations has a limited number of complaints listed to its name. While there are some recurring grievances, the 2014 Mazda CX-9 recalls easily resolve most issues. Additionally, the brand’s proactiveness comes in handy for most buyers. The midsize SUV is amply equipped and like most of its contemporaries, the ride quality remains top-notch. Its price justifies its capabilities and though its efficiency can be underwhelming, the Japanese heritage enhances the overall comprehensiveness of the vehicle. So, if you do plan on buying the vehicle, owners will not regret their decision and seldom find any problems with the SUV.
