2012 Mazda CX-9
2012 Mazda CX-9
Overview
The 2012 Mazda CX-9 is a mid-size SUV that offered a comfortable ride and practical interior, making it a popular choice for families. Mechanically, it generally demonstrated good reliability for its model year, particularly with its powertrain. However, like many vehicles of this age, certain components can experience issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs for owners.
Engine
3.7L V6
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine misfires, rough idle, potential overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System Issues
- Symptoms: Check engine light, rattling noise from the engine, poor performance, decreased fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of VVT solenoids or phasers.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (FWD/AWD)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
Worn Control Arm Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Strut Mount Bearing Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Electrical
General Electrical System
Power Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
- Cost: $250 - $500 per window
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Exterior
Body and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Mazda CX-9 generally offers a solid reliability record, with its V6 engine and automatic transmission being robust. The most commonly reported issues tend to be related to the suspension components, such as worn bushings and strut mounts, and some electrical gremlins like power window motors and infotainment system quirks. These are not typically catastrophic failures but can lead to repair costs. Overall, with proper maintenance and attention to these potential problem areas, the CX-9 remains a dependable choice for a family SUV.