2018 Mazda CX-9

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 is a three-row mid-size SUV known for its sporty handling, upscale interior, and stylish design. It’s powered by a single engine option: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower (on 87 octane) or 250 horsepower (on 93 octane) and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CX-9’s responsive driving dynamics and premium feel, but some common complaints include limited third-row space and the relatively small cargo area when all three rows are in use.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, engine light illumination, whistling or grinding noises from the turbocharger area, excessive smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, the need to add oil frequently between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust (indicating burning oil).
  • Solution: In some cases, a faulty PCV valve might be the cause and needs replacement. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ for PCV valve. $3,000 - $7,000+ for major engine work.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, sweet smell emanating from the engine bay, visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing hoses, the water pump, or other cooling system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, particularly when downshifting. Delay or hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) might resolve the issue. In other instances, a transmission flush and fluid replacement. In more severe cases, replacement of the valve body or the entire transmission is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for TCM update. $200 - $400 for fluid change. $800 - $1,500+ for valve body replacement. $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A vibration or shudder felt at low speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush with updated fluid, or torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 for fluid change. $800 - $1,500+ for torque converter replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises coming from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn rear sway bar bushings, rear shocks, or other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the specific component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the CMU (Connectivity Master Unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update if available. $500 - $1,200+ for CMU replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains overnight or within a short period, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing parasitic draws, replacing a faulty battery, or inspecting/replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for battery replacement. $100 - $500+ for electrical diagnostics and repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: BSM system malfunctions, illuminating warning lights on the dashboard and disabling the BSM function.
  • Solution: Inspection and possible replacement of BSM sensors, wiring, or the BSM control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate fails to open or close properly, makes unusual noises, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacing the liftgate struts, motor, or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior components, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the rattle and tightening or replacing loose components, using foam padding to dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the complexity and location of the rattle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mazda CX-9, while a well-regarded vehicle, does have some common issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the turbocharger, oil consumption, and transmission shifting, can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and BSM sensors are also prevalent. While some issues might be minor inconveniences, others could lead to significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection to assess the vehicle’s condition.