While there’s nothing generally wrong with the 1st gen Mazda CX-9, all models have their own common issues. Here’s the most common problems with the Mazda CX-9, years 2007 to 2015.
Common 1st Generation Mazda CX-9 Problems: Model Years 2007 to 2015
1. Front End Squeaking
Symptoms of Bad Strut Bushings
- Squeaking from the front of the 1st gen Mazda CX-9 that can be heard from underneath the dash and/or the bumper.
- Squeaking from the front when driving over bumps
Causes of Bad Strut Bushings
Bad strut bushings are a common cause of a squeaking noise from the front on the 1st gen CX-9.
How to Fix Worn Strut Bushings
To fix a strut bushing causing a squeaking noise from the front of the 2007 to 2015 Mazda CX-9, you’ll want to check the condition of the bushing on the passenger and driver side.
More on how to inspect strut bushings
1A Auto How-to Video: How to Replace a Strut on Any Vehicle
2. Worn Wheel Bearings
Symptoms of Bad Wheel Bearings
- Squeaking noise from the wheels while driving
Causes of a Squeaking Noise from the Wheels of the 2007 to 2015 Mazda CX-9
Worn wheel bearings are a typical cause of a squeaking noise from the wheel while driving, like when turning or just driving down the road.
How to Fix Issues with Squeaky Wheels on the 1st Gen Mazda CX-9
If the wheel bearing is worn and making a squeaking noise, it will need replacing.
Tips to check your own wheel bearings
1A Auto How-to Video: How to Replace a Front Wheel Hub Bearing on a 2007 to 2014 Chevrolet Silverado
3. Water-Damaged Computer
Symptoms of a Water-Damaged BCM in the 2007 to 2015 Mazda CX-9
- Different electrical problems like the turn signals not working
Causes of a Water-Damaged Computer
The sunroof drain can clog and water-damage the body control module (BCM).
How to Fix a Water-Damaged BCM
The BCM is located on the driver side behind the kick panel and near the driver’s left foot. To prevent this issue, inspect the sunroof and sunroof drain periodically.
More on how to inspect a sunroof and sunroof drain tube
4. Transmission Problems
Symptoms of Problems with the 1st Gen Mazda CX-9 Transmission
- Transmission slipping
- Hard shifting
Causes of Issues with the Transmission
This problem is more likely to happen while driving. The transmission may cause a slip or jerk sensation while shifting when the CX-9 is warmed up, and this may happen without a check engine light turning on.
How to Fix a Transmission Slipping
Problems with the transmission shifting will be from the CX-9’s computer. The dealership can fix this problem.
Read more: What Causes Transmission Shudder? How to Diagnose Problems with the Transmission
5. Ignition Coil Failure
Symptoms of Bad Ignition Coils
- Check engine light for a P0300 misfire code
- Rough running engine
Causes of Bad Ignition Coils
The ignition coils are a common cause of misfires in the 2007 to 2015 Mazda CX-9.
How to Fix Defective Ignition Coils
To replace the ignition coils on the 1st gen Mazda CX-9, steps include disconnecting the wiring harness, loosening and removing the bolts, and lifting the ignition coil up and out. We recommend replacing the spark plugs and coils together.
More on diagnosing engine misfires
1st Generation Mazda CX-9 Model Years
- 2007 Mazda CX-9
- 2008 Mazda CX-9
- 2009 Mazda CX-9
- 2010 Mazda CX-9
- 2011 Mazda CX-9
- 2012 Mazda CX-9
- 2013 Mazda CX-9
- 2014 Mazda CX-9
- 2015 Mazda CX-9