Last updated: 2026-07-25

2023 Mazda CX-9 Reliability Report
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 scores 81/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 0 recalls and 12 owner complaints.
Recalls
0
Complaints
12
Complaint Rate
6.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$539
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,600
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- Chest Clip (2)
- SERVICE BRAKES (2)
- STEERING (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is year 8 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.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is year 8 of the Second generation (TC; 2016).
Should You Buy the 2023 Mazda CX-9?
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 earns an Excellent 81/100 reliability score. 2023 is year 8 of the Second generation (TC; 2016).
At 6.9 per 10,000 vehicles sold, its complaint rate sits below the SUV segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
See also the 2022 Mazda CX-9 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +$245 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUV
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
- +No recalls issued
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (3 complaints)
- −Steering failures reported at 12,000–39,000 miles
Compare 2023 Mazda CX-9 With

2023 Toyota Highlander
Reliability: 73/100

2023 Hyundai Palisade
Reliability: 62/100

2023 Honda Pilot
Reliability: 72/100

2023 KIA Telluride
Reliability: 68/100

2023 Volkswagen Atlas
Reliability: 58/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
- Chest Clip (2)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2023 Mazda CX-9 — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
6.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 11.3
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2023 Mazda CX-9? Check its history first
Every 2023 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.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Mazda CX-9 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.1%
Safety Technologies
Mazda CX-9Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based 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
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 MPG
Running cost: $3,150/yr
Fuel + repair
20 city / 26 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 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX-9 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 20 | 26 | 23 | $2,600 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Mazda CX-9.
Inspect steering system for thud sounds and EPS alerts
Test brakes for pedal responsiveness and ensure no need for pumping
Check for any critical malfunction alerts via the Mazda app
Verify sunroof integrity and inspect for any glass damage
Ensure tires are not subject to recall and inspect for tread separation
Test automatic liftgate for proper jam-safe operation
2023 Mazda CX-9 Common Problems by Component
12 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Mazda CX-9 report several distinct issues, with one severe incident involving a complete loss of vehicle control leading to a crash. In this case, the driver experienced total steering, braking, and acceleration failure, resulting in an uncontrollable vehicle and a subsequent crash, which caused injury. Another owner describes an unexpected sunroof implosion while driving, causing glass to scatter inside the vehicle, raising potential safety concerns. Additionally, there are complaints about the absence of a Traction Control Device switch, which leaves drivers unable to manually disable the system during adverse weather conditions, potentially leading to vehicle immobilization. These issues highlight significant safety implications, particularly the loss of control and structural failures, that prospective buyers should consider.
Chest Clip
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Mazda CX-9 report issues with the 5-point harness crotch buckles on Graco TrioGrow and Graco TriRide car seats, specifically noting that the red button-release tension is insufficient. They describe situations where toddlers can depress the lower crotch buckle and free themselves while the vehicle is in motion, even when the harness is deemed tight and the chest clip is correctly positioned. This issue is consistently reported as a mechanical restraint failure, posing an ongoing safety hazard for young passengers. There are no specific mileage ranges or timelines associated with these complaints, but the safety implications are significant, as the restraint system fails to secure the child regardless of behavior.
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Mazda CX-9 report two primary issues related to the service brakes. One complaint describes an automatic throttle control that reduces engine power to idle when both the brake and accelerator pedals are pressed simultaneously, which the owner experienced on a freeway. This feature is noted as potentially hazardous by the owner, especially in situations requiring simultaneous pedal use, such as on icy roads. Another owner reports a persistent brake pedal issue where the pedal must be pumped to engage the brakes properly, with the pedal otherwise going nearly to the floor. This problem has led to multiple repair attempts over four months without resolution, leaving the owner feeling unsafe. These reports highlight concerns about unexpected throttle behavior and brake pedal responsiveness, with significant safety implications noted by the owners.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Mazda CX-9 report issues with the steering system, particularly involving a thud sound from the steering wheel and a failed u-joint shaft, which later is identified as a bearing failure within the Electric Power Steering (EPS) unit. Complaints frequently mention delayed starts and critical malfunction alerts prior to steering issues, with one owner experiencing these problems just over 36,000 miles. In a separate incident, a steering wheel seizure at approximately 12,100 miles results in a crash into a ditch and a tree, with no airbag deployment or injuries reported. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning steering control and braking, which may be of interest to potential used car buyers.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintI recently purchased a 2023 Mazda CX9 with factory installed tires, Falken Ziex CT50 A/S p255/50R20 104V M+S. I was driving on the freeway on Tuesday [XXX] going around 65-70MPH. My tire pressure light came on all of a sudden, I started to slow down and make my way over to the right lane and then shoulder to check it out and all of a sudden the tire tread completely ripped away from the rest of the tire. Some of the sidewalls stayed intact, which ultimately protected my wheel from damage. But other than the tire pressure light coming on 30 seconds before the failure, there was no warning, no obvious defect or anything in the tire. Had it been one of my front tires it potentially could have been way worse of an outcome as I was driving on a bridge and next to a semi. The shop where I ended up replacing all 4 tires because I did not feel safe using this brand any longer said he has never seen the tread just rip right off of the sidewalls. I searched the tire make and model and there was an open recall on this specific brand and size tire, but my date stamp did not match. However, it was the same exact reason for the recall in the first place. So clearly this company has not changed their manufacturing methods and is putting people's lives in danger with these tires spontaneously detaching from the wheel. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintWhat component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? **Automated liftgate failure with risk of crushing. When pressing the automatic liftgate button, if there is an obstruction, the liftgate has unreliable/ineffective sensors ("jam-safe equipment") to prevent items and body parts from being crushed. In my instance, items in the trunk were crushed until the fuse blew for the liftgate. I believe this could have caused serious harm if a body part was accidentally wedged between the liftgate and preventing it from closing. **The fuse has been replaced and liftgate is now operational. It is available for inspection upon request. **Upon inquiring with Mazda, the dealer stated that "Mazda does not publish any data pertaining to your question “what strength of resistance is the specification for the Jam-safe equipment”. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? **Liftgate automatic closure fails to sense items/body parts in pathway or stop upon contact/resistance, crushing them until fuse blows. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? **Fuse was replaced and dealer indicated it was operating normally, however Mazda allegedly has NO TEST / SPECIFICATION for Jam-Safe equipment! Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? **Mazda dealer. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? **No.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedI was approaching Breezewood, Pa coming south on 70 into town from Hagerstown. Traffic comes to a stop awaiting a light that stops the highway traffic before allowing people to proceed through Breezewood and then continue on 70 out of town. I had plenty of warning as traffic slows first from 55 to 45, then to 35 before the light. As I applied pressure to the brakes the vehicle would not slow down. I released them once and reapplied and it felt as if they were doing nothing to slow me down. There were a lot of cars ahead of me and around me and the car did hold its lane thank goodness, but I ended up colliding with a stopped pickup/trailer (Ram with a car carrier/flatbed trailer). None of the vehicles collision avoidance warnings or safety features seemed to assist in the warning of the impending collision or deployed upon contact. No air bags, beeping of warning light - nothing. The vehicle is only months old - and tires are even newer than the vehicle as I had winter tires on it up until about two weeks before this trip. The weather was gray, it had rained lightly for several hours before - but it was 50 degrees.
When Do 2023 Mazda CX-9 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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).
2023
(Current Model)
2022
2020
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.
| 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 |
Mazda CX-9 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-9 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Mazda CX-9?
How many recalls does the 2023 Mazda CX-9 have?
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-9 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 Mazda CX-9 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mazda CX-9.
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