Last updated: 2026-07-25
Mazda CX-9 Reliability by Year
The Mazda CX-9 averages 76/100 across 6 model years, rated good.
Mazda CX-9 Reliability Overview
The Mazda CX-9, covering model years 2018 through 2023, consistently scores in the "Good" to "Excellent" range on the Auto Reliability Index, with scores increasing from 66/100 in 2018 to 81/100 by 2022 and 2023. Common issues reported by owners include engine overheating and electrical system malfunctions, particularly with infotainment screens, though these have decreased in frequency in newer models. With an estimated annual repair cost of $539, below the midsize SUV average, the CX-9 is suited for those prioritizing moderate repair expenses and a generally reliable vehicle, though prospective buyers should be aware of specific model-year issues.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2016–2024).
Best & Worst Mazda CX-9 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mazda CX-9 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mazda CX-9 year is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2022 (81/100) and 2020 (78/100).
Mazda CX-9 Years to Avoid
The worst Mazda CX-9 year is 2018 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to engine (60) issues.
Mazda CX-9 Reliability Score Trend
Mazda CX-9 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 80/100 compared to 72/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2023 Mazda CX-9
0 recalls · 12 complaints
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 has excellent reliability. There are 0 recalls and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (3), Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness (2), Service Brakes (2).
2022 Mazda CX-9
0 recalls · 9 complaints
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 has excellent reliability. There are 0 recalls and 9 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (2), Structure (2), Visibility Wiper (1).
2021 Mazda CX-9
1 recalls · 35 complaints
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 35 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 6 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (17), Unknown Or Other (4), Power Train (2).
2020 Mazda CX-9
1 recalls · 19 complaints
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 19 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (4), Engine (3), Fuel Propulsion System (2).
2019 Mazda CX-9
2 recalls · 52 complaints
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 52 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (15), Unknown Or Other (9), Electrical System (7).
2018 Mazda CX-9
2 recalls · 125 complaints
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 125 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Mazda CX-9. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (60), Unknown Or Other (17), Electrical System (13).
Found Your Mazda CX-9? Check Its History
Every Mazda CX-9 has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Mazda CX-9 Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
4/5
Annual Repair Cost
$539
Repair Frequency
0.6/yr
Major Repair Risk
10%
$245 below the midsize SUV average of $784/yr.
Ranked #1 of 14 among midsize SUV.
Mazda CX-9 Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Mazda Models
Compare all Mazda models by reliability
Compare Mazda CX-9 With Similar SUVs
The Mazda CX-9 competes with other midsize suvs such as Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and Honda Pilot.
Toyota Highlander reliability
9 years tracked · 1892 complaints
Hyundai Palisade reliability
7 years tracked · 1908 complaints
Honda Pilot reliability
9 years tracked · 2382 complaints
KIA Telluride reliability
6 years tracked · 1600 complaints
Volkswagen Atlas reliability
9 years tracked · 2107 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Mazda CX-9 reliable?
- The Mazda CX-9 has good reliability with an average score of 76/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Mazda CX-9?
- The best year for the Mazda CX-9 is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. It has 0 recalls and 12 owner complaints on record. See full 2023 Mazda CX-9analysis →
- What are the Mazda CX-9 years to avoid?
- The Mazda CX-9 years to avoid include 2018 (66/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Mazda CX-9?
- The Mazda CX-9 has an estimated annual repair cost of $539, which is $245 below the midsize SUV average of $784. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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