Vehicles / Mazda / CX-9 / 2011

2011 Mazda CX-9

170 federal complaints (209 component records) · 4 recall campaigns on file · 3 federal investigations · 281 service bulletins · 2 Canadian recalls
See all 17 model years of the Mazda CX-9 →
Engine
3.7L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
17 city / 24 hwy
Federal complaints
170
Recall campaigns
4
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Brakes
100
Power train
26
Air bags
22
Engine & cooling
15
Suspension
8
Other
5
Stability control
5
Electrical system
5
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 1 complaints01 years old: 4 complaints2 years old: 11 complaints3 years old: 20 complaints4 years old: 28 complaints5 years old: 31 complaints56 years old: 19 complaints7 years old: 14 complaints8 years old: 18 complaints9 years old: 9 complaints10 years old: 5 complaints1011 years old: 2 complaints12 years old: 2 complaints13 years old: 2 complaints14 years old: 3 complaints15 years old: 1 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 170 of 170 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 4 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 14 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 26 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 31 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 19 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 19 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 16 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 3 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 1 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 1 complaints200,000+ miles: 0 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 134 of 170 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Brakes

100 complaint records4 crash reports
"BRAKES ARE MAKING A HISSING SOUND WHEN YOU PRESS DOWN. THE BRAKES ARE HARD TO PUSH AND THE VEHICLE IS NOT STOPPING PROPERLY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →

Power train

26 complaint records1 fire report
"HISSING NOISE WHEN PRESSING BRAKE PEDAL. IF FEELS LIKE MORE FORCE IS NEEDED TO STOP VEHICLE. LOUD NOISE FROM TRANSMISSION WHEN SHIFTING FROM PART TO DRIVE/REVERSE..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Air bags

22 complaint records4 crash reports
"2011 MAZDA CX-9. CONSUMER REQUESTS RENTAL VEHICLE UNTIL PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR REPLACEMENT AND FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS RECALL NOTICES REPAIRS ARE COMPLETE. *SMD..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
PE19006
opened May 2019
closed Jan 2021Air BagsInadvertent Curtain Air Bag Deployment
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE19-006) on May 2, 2019 to investigate two Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) and Early Warning Reporting data related to allegations of inadvertent deployment (IAD) of side...
PE15022
opened Jun 2015
closed Aug 2015SuspensionLower ball joint separation - led to recall 15V451000
In an July 7,2015 letter to NHTSA, Mazda identified a safety defect that could result in lower ball joint separation in approximately 193,484 model year (MY) 2007 through 2014 Mazda CX-9 vehicles (NHTSA Recall No.
PE14005
opened Feb 2014
closed Jun 2014Service Brakes, HydraulicBrake Booster Failure
In March 2014, Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) initiated Special Service Program SSP93 to extend the warranty coverage for a specific brake booster fault condition on model year (MY) 2007-2013 Mazda CX-9 vehicles.According to Mazda's dealer communication for...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
19V782000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsMazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles.Normally free
18V717000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsMazda 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,...Normally free
17V429000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsMazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles.Normally free
15V451000SuspensionMazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 CX-9 vehicles manufactured October 24, 2006, to December 28, 2013.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2018585
2018-10-25
Airbag23,966On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag.
2015323
2015-07-21
Suspension10,600On certain vehicles, the front suspension ball joint could separate from the lower control arm due to corrosion caused by saltwater intrusion.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SA-041-26a
Sep 2026
Electrical SystemDESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
SA-055-26
Aug 2026
Unknown Or OtherProduct Quality Information (PQI) DESCRIPTION Service Information MT-041/12 is no longer valid. It has been unpublished and superseded by the Field Quality Information Report (FQIR) reporting system.
SA-041-26
Jun 2026
Electrical SystemThis SA supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-061/25 12/17/25 DESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal...
SA-029-26
Apr 2026
Power TrainThis Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems.
SA-061-25
Dec 2025
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
07-004-25a
Dec 2025
Unknown Or OtherA musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON.
SA-039/25
Aug 2025
Unknown Or OtherSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
SA-036-25
Aug 2025
Unknown Or OtherWhen replacing the SiriusXM satellite radio unit, a call must be made to inform SiriusXM of the existing Radio ID and the new/replacement SAT Radio ID as soon as possible to ensure the customer leaves the dealership with an active SAT radio.
SA-032-25
Jun 2025
Unknown Or OtherSome customers may complain about a noisy HVAC blower motor or odor after a cabin air filter replacement. Foreign debris on the blower motor after servicing the cabin air filter may be the cause.
09-024-25
May 2025
Unknown Or OtherSome vehicles may exhibit following symptoms: 1. The rearview mirror (1) rattles up and down (2) while adjusting the mirror. 2. The rearview mirror (1) makes a rattle noise depending on the road surface conditions while driving.
07-004-25
Apr 2025
Unknown Or OtherA musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON.
SA-057-24
Aug 2024
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
SA-058-24
Aug 2024
StructureSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
09-038-24
Aug 2024
Unknown Or OtherIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
SA-011-24b
Jul 2024
Unknown Or OtherMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
SA-011-24a
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
SA-011-24
Feb 2024
WheelsMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
02-003-23
Oct 2023
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
SA-032-23a
Oct 2023
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
SA-039-23a
Sep 2023
StructureSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
SA-039-23
Jul 2023
StructureSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
SA-032-23
May 2023
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
09-016-23
Feb 2023
Electrical SystemSpeedometer replacement procedure
02-004-22a
Nov 2022
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
SA-075-22
Nov 2022
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed.
SA-008-22a
Oct 2022
StructureSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
09-024-22
Jul 2022
Electrical SystemIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer.
01-006-22
Jun 2022
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
02-004-22
May 2022
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
SA-014-22
Mar 2022
EquipmentAccessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories.
01-003/22
Mar 2022
EquipmentThe Mazda DCA-8000 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
00-001-22
Feb 2022
Service BrakesMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
SA-008-22
Feb 2022
StructureSome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
01-006-21-3779b
Dec 2021
Electrical SystemBattery Maintenance: This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
05-002-21-3854
Dec 2021
Power TrainAutomatic Transmission/Transaxle Cooler and Lines Flushing Procedure: Automatic Transaxle/Transmission (A/T) oil cooler and lines must be power flushed completely before an overhauled or replacement A/T is installed (except SKYACTIV-DRIVE).
MT-002-21a
Oct 2021
Fuel SystemEthanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85. E10: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline.
MT-003-21
Oct 2021
EquipmentSome customers may complain about high engine oil consumption. Before attempting any repairs, verify the complaint by using the guideline below to determine if an engine repair is necessary:
MT-002-21
Sep 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingEthanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85.
01-006-21-3779a
Aug 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
09-025-21-3824
Aug 2021
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the driver’s floor mat to avoid any potential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference, which can be avoided with proper usage.
SA-041-21
Jun 2021
EquipmentAccessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories. The links provided below can be used for quick access: For 2016 models and newer: NOTE: Instructions are found under the "Attachments" section once a part is selected.
SA-040-21
Jun 2021
VisibilitySome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
MT-003-21
Jun 2021
VisibilitySome vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building. This may be caused by the suns reflection.
MT-002-21
May 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingWhen programming a key or installing a Genuine Mazda Accessory Remote Engine Start system, you may encounter programming difficulty. This may be caused by a customer installed aftermarket decorative trim and/or cover on the START/STOP ENGINE button.
MT-001-21
May 2021
EquipmentIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern.
SSPB3
May 2021
Air BagsSubject: ** UPDATE** - Takata Inflator Special Service Program (Extended Warranty) Special Service Program SSPB3: In December 2017 Special Service Program SSPB3 - Takata Inflator Extended Warranty was announced.
MT-001-21
Mar 2021
Electrical SystemIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern.
01-005-21-3778
Feb 2021
Electrical SystemThe Mazda DCA-8000PM is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000PM is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
01-006-21-3779
Feb 2021
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
07-001-21-3775
Jan 2021
EquipmentA musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON.
00-001-21-3768
Jan 2021
SteeringMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
09-002-21-3770
Jan 2021
Electrical SystemIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer
09-036-20-3756
Nov 2020
Electrical SystemSome vehicles may exhibit a Connectivity Master Unit (CMU), a BLUETOOTH® hands-free unit or text messaging related concerns.
MT-005-20
Nov 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingSome customers may complain about high engine oil consumption. Before attempting any repairs, verify the complaint by using the guideline below to determine if an engine repair is necessary: Engine Oil Consumption Inspection Guideline 1. Record the vehicle mileage. 2.
SA-068-20
Sep 2020
Electrical SystemThe infotainment screen displays a warning message "A program cannot be read. Please consult to a dealer" after battery replacement.  KAM reset does not correct the concern.  The navigation map disc cannot be ejected.
MT-002-20
Aug 2020
TiresNew CARB regulation regarding mandatory checking and documenting of tire pressure whenever a vehicle is in for service work. This applies to all service shops (including Mazda dealerships) in California effective September 1, 2010.
09-006-20-3673a
Jul 2020
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Paint Warranty Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable).
MT-001-20
Jul 2020
EquipmentIf you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern.
00-001-20-3689
Mar 2020
Power TrainMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
09-006-20-3673
Jan 2020
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Pocket Paint Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable). Copies of the Mazda Pocket Paint Guide are available for order on Mazda e-Store (part number: 9999-95-MPPG-12).

Showing 60 of 281 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
  2. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  3. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 4 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Do not drive it home until the do-not-drive recall is confirmed repaired.At least one campaign on this vehicle carries a federal do-not-drive advisory. Confirm the repair with the dealer, by VIN, before taking delivery.
  6. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Mazda CX-9 →