2018 Mazda Cx-9 Safety Report
2018 Mazda CX-9: Strong crash ratings, but significant engine reliability and electrical recall concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Mazda Cx-9
Reliability Score
The 2018 Mazda Cx-9 receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Mazda Cx-9
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Mazda Cx-9:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Coolant Leaks/Cracked Cylinder Head Numerous complaints detail catastrophic engine damage due to coolant leaks from cracked cylinder heads, often without prior warning, leading to overheating and engine stalls. |
High | Common | 55000-89000 miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure Subject of a recall, the low-pressure fuel pump impeller can fail, causing an engine stall and increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Wiring Harness Defect (Airbag/Turn Signals) Subject of a recall, a faulty wiring harness can disable the passenger frontal airbag and turn signals, increasing injury risk and reducing visibility. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Liftgate (Trunk) Opening Sporadically The power liftgate can open unexpectedly, causing parasitic battery drain and stranding the driver. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Smart Brake System (Sbs) Malfunction The Smart Brake System can malfunction, causing the vehicle to brake on its own without driver input, or display warning lights and cause rough running. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Infotainment Screen Discoloration/Failure The infotainment screen can develop discoloration or 'frosting,' impairing visibility for navigation and backup camera. |
Low | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Passenger Seat Heater Smoldering/Fire One complaint reported the passenger seat heater shorting out and causing the seat to smolder and catch fire. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Mazda Cx-9:
The most frequent issue, with 55 complaints, involves engine failures, primarily due to coolant leaks from cracked cylinder heads, leading to overheating and loss of power.
11 complaints fall under this category, often relating to general vehicle operation or issues not fitting specific component categories.
8 complaints relate to issues combining power train and engine, likely linked to the broader engine reliability concerns.
6 complaints mention general electrical system problems, separate from the specific wiring harness recall.
4 complaints are related to service brakes, including issues with the Smart Brake System malfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Mazda Cx-9
Is the 2018 Mazda CX-9 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 received excellent 5-star overall safety ratings in crash tests. However, it has 121 complaints, including 4 crashes and 2 injuries, with significant concerns regarding engine reliability due to coolant leaks and two critical safety recalls for fuel pump failure and electrical system wiring that affects airbags and turn signals. While crash protection is high, operational safety is impacted by these known defects.
What are common problems with the 2018 Mazda CX-9?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Mazda CX-9 are engine-related, specifically catastrophic failures due to coolant leaks from cracked cylinder heads, accounting for 55 complaints. Other common problems include issues with the Smart Brake System, and general electrical system malfunctions. There are also two recalls for fuel pump failure and a wiring harness defect affecting airbags and turn signals.
Has the 2018 Mazda CX-9 been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 has been subject to two safety recalls. One recall addresses a low-pressure fuel pump impeller that can fail and cause an engine stall. The second recall is for a wiring harness defect that can disable the passenger frontal airbag and turn signals.
How does the 2018 Mazda CX-9 perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 performs very well in crash tests, earning an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. It received 5 stars for side impact, and 4 stars for both frontal crash and rollover resistance.
Are there engine problems with the 2018 Mazda CX-9?
Yes, there are significant engine problems reported for the 2018 Mazda CX-9. The 'ENGINE' component is the most complained about, with 55 reports detailing issues such as coolant leaks from cracked cylinder heads, leading to overheating, engine misfires, and catastrophic engine failure, often at mileages between 55,000 and 89,000.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash test ratings but significant engine reliability concerns and critical recalls, ensure all recalls have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine and electrical systems before buying a 2018 Mazda CX-9.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Mazda Cx-9
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Mazda Cx-9. The data includes 121 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Mazda Cx-9 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.