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Mazda · Full-Size SUV · 2007–2015 Custom Search

Mazda CX-9 TB

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants · How we rate

Generations

Engine Overview

The Mazda CX-9 TB is available with one engine variant at 277 hp.

3.7L V6 · Petrol· 277 PS
2007 2015

3.7-litre V6 with direct injection and chain drive. Large SUV engine with linear power delivery.

  • !! Internal Water Pump Failure from 120,000 km

    The water pump on the 3.7L V6 sits inside the engine and is driven by the timing chain. Failure lets coolant into the engine oil — rapid engine damage results. Replacement requires 12–15 labour hours.

    Symptoms: Milky oil filler cap, rising coolant loss without visible external leak, overheating warning, sweet smell from oil
    1,500–4,000 $
    Ad water pump Mazda CX-9 3.7 V6water pump MZI V6 3.7timing chain kit CX-9 3.7
  • !! Transfer Case (PTU) Overheats and Fails from 60,000 km

    The AWD system's power transfer unit sits too close to the exhaust system and overheats. The factory-filled lifetime gear oil degrades into sludge. Mazda extended the warranty (SSP92).

    Symptoms: Burning smell from gear oil, shuddering or juddering on pull-away, fluid seeping behind the engine
    1,500–3,500 $
    Ad transfer case Mazda CX-9 AWDPTU Mazda CX-9 TB
  • !! Brake Booster Failure from 100,000 km

    Brake booster failures are documented on the CX-9 TB. The brake pedal suddenly becomes very hard and stopping distances increase considerably. A safety-critical issue.

    Symptoms: Extremely hard, barely pressable brake pedal, significantly increased stopping distance, hissing noise when braking
    400–1,200 $
    Ad brake booster Mazda CX-9vacuum pump CX-9 3.7

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Warped Front Brake Discs

Front brake discs on the CX-9 warp under heavy braking loads. Centrally rusted and warped discs have been found at around 55,000 km. After two resurfacing operations, replacement is due.

Symptoms: Brake pedal pulsating when braking, steering wheel vibrating under braking force, brakes feeling uneven
from 55,000 km
Ad brake disc front Mazda CX-9 TBbrake pads CX-9 3.7 V6brakes CX-9 TB
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below average
1,056 complaints · 2007–2015
  1. 01 Brakes
    416 ⚠ 19
  2. 02 Suspension
    144 ⚠ 8
  3. 03 Airbags
    139 ⚠ 13
  4. 04 Engine
    128 ⚠ 1
  5. 05 Powertrain
    125 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Brakes (416 complaints)
⚠ Suspension (144 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (139 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda CX-9 TB (2007–2015) — 6 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. One problem engine: CAY1 (3.7L V6). Typical issues affect Brakes, Suspension, Electronics, Body.

CX-9 (CAY1, 2007–2015) — Stay Away!: Internal Water Pump Failure, Transfer Case (PTU) Overheats and Fails, Brake Booster Failure. Power: 277 PS.

What to watch out for with the Mazda CX-9? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda CX-9 TB have? +
The Mazda CX-9 TB has 6 known engine weaknesses and 8 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda CX-9 TB? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the CAY1 (3.7L V6). Problem engine: CAY1 (3.7L V6) — stay away!
Which Mazda CX-9 TB engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Mazda CX-9 TB — rated: "Decent". {description} The strong turbocharged engine moves the large SUV with authority. The direct steering is a pleasant surprise, but ultimately it's a comfortable touring car.
Is the Mazda CX-9 TB worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Mazda CX-9 TB — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda CX-9 TB? +
The Mazda CX-9 TB is available with engine variants from 277 to 277 hp. Petrol: CAY1 (3.7L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee