Mazda has always stayed unique in this congested and competitive market with its different approach to vehicle design, and the Mazda CX-9 is another example that is both handsome and practical. Furthermore, Mazda vehicles do have a reputation for their impressive reliability too. The 2016 Mazda CX-9 follows the same path that is evident from its zero recall and 33 official complaints so far. The complaints mainly comprise powertrain reports and electrical system issues along with brake issues as well. The previous year’s model had an even lesser number of complaints but saw 2 recalls regarding an airbag issue and a power steering issue. Coming to its rivals, the Mazda CX-9 goes head-to-head with the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Dodge Durango, and the Honda Pilot.
2016 Mazda CX-9 SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and Which Year to Avoid
Mazda CX-9 user complaints and problems
Engine problems
- Sudden acceleration: One owner complains that he faced a sudden acceleration issue. During the occurrence, the owner was taking a turn, right after which the vehicle suddenly accelerated despite the gas pedal not being depressed.
- Power loss: A handful of complaints regarding this issue are present for the 2016 Mazda CX-9. The reports state that while driving, the vehicles suddenly lost power to accelerate, risking the safety of the owners. In one case, the dealership updated the power control module software which the owner thought was irrelevant to the issue.
- Warped cylinder head: manufacturing defect A few complaints regarding the warped cylinder head are present. The authorized dealers informed the affected owners that due to a manufacturing defect, the cylinder heads cracked which resulted in coolant loss, engine overheating, and could lead to a total engine failure as well.
- Faulty fuel gauge: A couple of owners reported that they faced issues with the fuel gauge of their Mazda CX-9 SUVs. One owner says that despite the fuel gauge showing about 27 miles of range the vehicle ran out of gasoline before traveling less than a mile.
Safety problems
- Faulty AEB system: There are a few reports regarding this issue for the 2016 Mazda CX-9. The owners report that while driving, the system malfunctions and either applies the brakes intermittently but sharply or cuts engine power completely and applies the brakes, making it unable to accelerate. The system engaged without any reason since there were no obstructions on the vehicle’s path.
- Faulty brakes: Some owners faced problems with the brakes of their vehicles. The complaints say that the faults in the brakes resulted in locking up, smoke, and grinding noises. In some cases, the brakes required a complete replacement.
- Brake booster damage: A single report mentions brake booster damage. Due to the brake booster damage, the vehicle failed to stop and almost crashed.
2016 Mazda CX-9 recalls
There has been no recall for the 2016 Mazda CX-9 yet.
Should you buy a 2016 Mazda CX-9?
The Mazda CX-9 is the best bet for those looking to get a stylish SUV that is both spacious and comfortable too. Also, the fuel economy of the SUV is better than its rivals in its class. The overall reliability aspect of the CX-9 makes it a compelling option too since some of its peers don't fare well in this area. Going for a used Mazda CX-9 won’t be a troublesome affair given you manage to find a well-maintained example from a reputed dealer. Also, the vehicle needs a ground-up inspection to rule out any known issues from the above-mentioned points.
