2007 Mazda CX-7

The 2007 Mazda CX-7 was a compact crossover SUV that offered sporty handling and attractive styling, making it a popular choice for those seeking a fun-to-drive alternative to more utilitarian SUVs. It was available with one engine option: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 244 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some liked its responsive handling and sporty design, while others disliked its fuel economy and some reliability issues.

Engine

2.3L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbo Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light, excessive oil consumption. The K04 turbocharger is prone to failure due to oil starvation and coking.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger, ensure proper oil changes with synthetic oil, inspect and clean the oil feed line to the turbo.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Stretch/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold, rough running engine, check engine light, potential for complete engine failure if the chain breaks. The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to chain slack and eventual damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides. Inspect camshafts and valves for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light. The VVT actuator can fail, causing improper camshaft timing.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT actuator, check oil control valve for proper operation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially during acceleration. Piston rings may not seal properly.
  • Solution: Perform an oil consumption test, consider replacing piston rings or the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of gears, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, replace faulty solenoids or valve body, or rebuild/replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $3,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging/Noisy
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded, squeaking or clunking noises from the rear suspension. Worn rear shocks and springs.
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: TPMS light on the dashboard remains illuminated even with proper tire pressure, sensors failing prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace faulty TPMS sensors, ensure proper sensor programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, grinding noises from the window motor, window regulator failure.
  • Solution: Replace faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear wheel arches, often starting from the inside out. Poor corrosion protection in this area.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust preventative coating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking or not opening/closing properly, water leaks around the sunroof.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate sunroof tracks, replace damaged seals, repair or replace sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) - $500+ (motor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mazda CX-7, while praised for its sporty driving dynamics and design, suffers from a few common issues. The most significant are related to the engine, particularly the turbocharger and timing chain, which can be expensive to repair. Excessive oil consumption is another prevalent concern. Transmission issues are also reported. Rust is also an issue. While some repairs are relatively minor, the potential for major engine and transmission work means potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and budget accordingly.