Last updated: 2026-07-25

2019 Mazda CX-9
RELIABILITY SCORE: 73/100 (GOOD)

2019 Mazda CX-9 Reliability Report

The 2019 Mazda CX-9 scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 52 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

2

Complaints

52

Complaint Rate

19.4per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$539

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,500–$2,600

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity58/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity83/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ENGINE (15)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
  • POWER TRAIN (4)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (TC; 2016).

  • Redesigned for the 2016 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • 2nd generation CX-9 (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2016: Second generation (TC; 2016) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (TC; 2016).

Should You Buy the 2019 Mazda CX-9?

At 73/100, the 2019 Mazda CX-9 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (TC; 2016).

Owners log 52 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to engine (15). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Mazda CX-9, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2018 Mazda CX-9 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +$245 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUV
  • +Low major repair risk (10%)
  • +Low recall count

Cons

  • ENGINE issues reported (15 complaints)
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (9 complaints)

Compare 2019 Mazda CX-9 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ENGINE (15)
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (9)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

The 2019 Mazda CX-9 carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

19.4

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 21.2

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

1

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Mazda CX-9 Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Mazda CX-9. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

21V8750002021-11-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

Consequence

Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.

19V7700002019-10-28

TIRES

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.

Consequence

A detached tire tread can decrease vehicle stability and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four tire serial numbers, replacing the tires as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 4, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4019J.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Mazda CX-9? Check its history first

Every 2019 Mazda CX-9 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2019 Mazda CX-9 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 15.9%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mazda CX-9Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$539

vs $784 avg for midsize SUV

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.6

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

10%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

CX-9
$539
Category Avg
$784
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

23–24 MPG

Running cost: $3,050–$3,150/yr

Fuel + repair

20–22 city / 26–28 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
CX-9 2WD 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)222824$2,500
CX-9 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)202623$2,600

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Mazda CX-9.

  • Inspect for coolant leaks around the engine and check for overheating signs

  • Test infotainment screen for spider cracks and ensure backup camera functionality

  • Listen for unusual noises from the suspension, especially over bumps

  • Check for excessive paint chipping, especially in Soul Red Metallic color

  • Verify proper operation of windshield wipers and inspect for non-OEM windshield issues

  • Test steering for clicking noises and ensure no loose bolts in the steering column

2019 Mazda CX-9 Common Problems by Component

52 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

15
9
7
6
ENGINE (15)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (9)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)POWER TRAIN (4)SUSPENSION (3)BACK OVER PREVENTION (3)STRUCTURE (3)STEERING (2)Other (6)

ENGINE

15 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 frequently report issues related to engine overheating and coolant leaks, often attributed to cracked cylinder heads. Common symptoms include dashboard warnings for high engine temperature, noticeable coolant leaks, overheating, and the presence of smoke or burning odors. These issues typically arise between 25,000 and 124,000 miles. Safety concerns are evident, with reports of sudden loss of engine power, engine shutdowns while driving, and potential fire risks from coolant leaks onto hot engine components. Buyers should be aware that multiple complaints reference a Mazda Technical Service Bulletin acknowledging these defects, and engine replacement is often cited as the necessary remedy.

15 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

9 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 frequently report issues with internal spider cracks on the infotainment center display, which can affect visibility and functionality of features like the backup camera and GPS. These cracks are reported as internal and not physically detectable by touch. Complaints often reference Mazda's existing service alerts for earlier models, suggesting a known issue that has not been addressed for the 2019 model year. Additionally, one owner reports ongoing issues with the Mazda Smart Braking System, where warning lights activate erroneously, impacting the use of cruise control. Although no crashes or fires are reported, the visibility issues with the display and the braking system's malfunction could pose safety risks.

9 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

7 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2019 Mazda CX-9's electrical system, primarily involving the infotainment screen and windshield wipers. Complaints frequently mention the infotainment screen developing spider cracks, making it difficult to use, with some owners noting this issue around 45,000 miles. Windshield wipers are reported to activate independently and fail to turn off, particularly after replacing the windshield with non-OEM parts. Additionally, one report describes a fire originating from the rear passenger side, while another details multiple battery replacements due to starting issues linked to the power liftgate module. Safety implications include a report of electrical system failures affecting emergency braking and lane assist features, leading to a loss of control.

7 complaints total
POWER TRAIN (4 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

4 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2019 Mazda CX-9's powertrain, specifically involving coolant leaks linked to cracked cylinder heads. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as engine overheating, visible smoke from the tailpipe, and loss of power. These issues are noted around 30,000 miles, with some owners experiencing problems shortly after the warranty period. Safety implications include the risk of sudden power loss while driving, which could be hazardous, especially on highways. Mazda has issued a technical service bulletin regarding this problem, and some owners have faced significant repair costs, even with acknowledgment of the defect by the manufacturer.

4 complaints total
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)

SUSPENSION

3 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 report issues primarily related to the front suspension, specifically involving control arms and struts. Common symptoms include a creaking or clunking noise from the front suspension, particularly noticeable when driving over bumps or in wet conditions, and a wobbling sensation at higher speeds. These issues are noted at varied mileages, with strut problems reported around 40,000 miles. Safety implications include a reported loss of steering control due to a failed aftermarket lower control arm, leading to a front wheel collapse. Buyers should be aware of potential suspension noise and steering issues, which may affect vehicle handling.

3 complaints total
BACK OVER PREVENTION (3 complaints)

BACK OVER PREVENTION

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 report issues with the backup camera and display screen, particularly involving image clarity and functionality. Complaints frequently mention the backup camera image freezing or displaying distorted visuals, with one incident resulting in a crash due to the camera image being frozen. These issues are reported at mileages around 28,000 to 40,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as a malfunctioning backup camera can lead to accidents when reversing. Multiple owners describe internal spider cracks on the infotainment display, which further affect the camera's performance, with some referencing specific service alerts and programs related to the issue.

3 complaints total1 crash
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 report two primary issues related to the vehicle's structure. Several complaints highlight problems with the Soul Red Metallic paint, specifically noting excessive chipping occurring under 30,000 miles. Additionally, there is a report of the passenger’s side rear wheel well trim molding detaching while driving at highway speeds, specifically at 21,820 miles. No safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are mentioned in the complaints. These issues may be relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's aesthetic and structural integrity over time.

3 complaints total
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 report issues with the steering system, specifically a clicking noise when turning the wheel, which is attributed to a loose bolt in the steering column. This problem is noted in a technical service bulletin (TSB) and seems to occur both under and beyond warranty periods. Additionally, a separate complaint describes a failure involving the front axle and tie rod while reversing, leading to the driver's side tire bending inward. This incident occurred at approximately 10,600 miles and required towing for repair. There are safety implications with the axle and tie rod failure, as it impacts vehicle control.

2 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Mazda CX-9 report issues with the vehicle's braking system, including unexpected activation of the brakes while driving. One owner describes a sudden, hard brake at approximately 35 mph without any driver input, accompanied by multiple warning messages related to the brake and sensor systems. Another complaint mentions general vehicle maintenance issues, though specific brake-related symptoms are not detailed. The unexpected braking incident poses potential safety risks, as it could lead to loss of control or accidents. These issues appear to occur without a specific mileage pattern, making it important for potential buyers to be aware of these reported problems.

2 complaints total
SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint
2024-02-08

My car has a 60/40 split adjustable-type second-row seat and the driver side of the 60/40 split-bench second row seat has been sliding forward during braking despite being seemingly locked in place. Apparently, a similar issue was the subject of a safety recall for 2020/2021 Mazda CX-9s (5221I). I have spoken with Mazda and they are not offering to replace the seat as part of the recall since my car is a 2019. While I understand their position, the issue appears to be the exact same one described in the recall of the 2020/2021 models.

When Do 2019 Mazda CX-9 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

25,000–124,000 milesEngine coolant leaks
28,000–45,000 milesInfotainment screen cracks
40,000 milesSuspension noise and failures

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

The 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. Current year highlighted.

Mazda CX-9 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201866/100Good
201973/100Good
202078/100Good
202177/100Good
202281/100Excellent
202381/100Excellent

Mazda CX-9 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202381/1000Excellent012
202281/100+4Excellent09
202177/100-1Good135
202078/100+5Good119
2019(selected)73/100+7Good252
201866/100Good2125

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Mazda CX-9 reliable?
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 73/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 52 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Mazda CX-9?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Mazda CX-9 include: ENGINE (15 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (9 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), POWER TRAIN (4 complaints), SUSPENSION (3 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2019 Mazda CX-9 have?
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2019 Mazda CX-9 expensive to maintain?
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 has estimated annual repair costs of $539/year, which is $245 less than the midsize SUV average of $784. With a reliability score of 73/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Mazda CX-9 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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