2021 Mazda CX-9
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 67 |
| 2008 | 172 |
| 2009 | 59 |
| 2010 | 162 |
| 2011 | 170 |
| 2012 | 221 |
| 2013 | 68 |
| 2014 | 54 |
| 2015 | 35 |
| 2016 | 104 |
| 2017 | 61 |
| 2018 | 126 |
| 2019 | 53 |
| 2020 | 19 |
| 2021 | 38 |
| 2022 | 10 |
| 2023 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
53% of complaints: engine — 20 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
The vehicle was parked stationary in the driveway with the engine running for 3-5 minutes with the A/C on. The vehicle then accelerated forward into my garage causing damage. Once I entered the vehicle, both the dash and shifter displayed park.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260810
Also filed under POWER TRAIN and VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
This complaint refers to Mazda and it's dealer refusal to properly execute the warranty work under the SSPD5 Valve Stem Seal Class Action Campaign and does not follow the Court's approval of the final Settlement Agreement.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260712
11% of complaints: service brakes — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
AS I WAS DRIVING DOWNHILL WITH MINIMAL SNOW ON THE GROUND, I TAPPED MY BRAKES ABOUT 7 TIMES BEFORE THEY LOCKED UP. I WENT TO TURN TO STAY ON THE ROAD AND THE STEERING WHEEL WOULDN'T BUDGE CAUSING ME TO GO OFF THE ROAD, INTO AN EMBANKMENT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210224
Also filed under STEERING
11% of complaints: power train — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I was in a parking lot and came to a stop and placed the car in reverse to back into a parking space. The back-up camera was on and I began to back into the parking space when the car suddenly lurched/jerked forward and accelerated on its own.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231016
Also filed under FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE and UNKNOWN OR OTHER
11% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing warnings and automatic emergency braking.
CRASH INJURY8% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing accelerator pedal.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-9 vehicles equipped with 60/40 split bench second-row seats. The left-side second-row seat may unexpectedly slide forward during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the internal parts of the affected second-row seats, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4.
Campaign 21V750000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Mazda CX-9 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (20 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V750000 (seat belts, seats) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Mazda CX-9 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mazda CX-9?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 53% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda CX-9 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.