2016 Mazda CX-9 Problems: 3 Known Issues
2016 model year · 750+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 750+ owner reports, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Cracked Cylinder Head Coolant Leak (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv PY-VPTS). The most commonly reported issue is Power Liftgate Failure with 750 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $300 to $900. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 CX-9 vehicles equipped with Sumitomo Falken ZIEX CT50 A/S tires, size P255/50R20 104V, having date code 1619. An incorrect rubber compound may have been used in the tire's manufacturing, allowing the tread to separate and detach.
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-9 vehicles equipped with 60/40 split bench second-row seats. The left-side second-row seat may unexpectedly slide forward during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Mazda CX-9 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 750+ owner reports, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Cracked Cylinder Head Coolant Leak (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv PY-VPTS), Mazda Connect CMU Freezing, Reboot Loop and Blank Screen, Power Liftgate Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mazda CX-9 reliable?
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 has 3 known issues documented across 750+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Cracked Cylinder Head Coolant Leak (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv PY-VPTS). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mazda CX-9 problems?
Repair costs for known Mazda CX-9 issues range from $300 to $900, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2016-2020 Mazda CX-9 Cracked Cylinder Head Coolant Leak (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv PY-VPTS)?
Certain 2016–2020 CX-9 vehicles with the 2.5L turbo engine can leak coolant from cracks in the cylinder head near the exhaust-manifold mounting area. Mazda revised the head and exhaust-manifold gasket. Repair depends on diagnosis: a replacement cylinder head is a documented remed… Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2020 Mazda CX-9 Mazda Connect CMU Freezing, Reboot Loop and Blank Screen?
The Connectivity Master Unit that runs Mazda Connect / MZD Connect on the CX-9 fails in a recognizable pattern: the screen freezes and stops responding to both the touchscreen and the commander knob, the system reboots repeatedly on its own, or it comes up blank with a long delay… Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2023 Mazda CX-9 Power Liftgate Failure?
The power liftgate system fails to open, close, or hold position. Causes include liftgate strut motors wearing out, latch mechanism failure, and wiring harness damage in the rubber boot between body and liftgate. Cold weather exacerbates the issue as struts lose gas pressure. Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.