What are the most common problems with the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

The **passenger frontal airbag inflator modules** are a critical safety concern requiring verification of recall completion.

How many recalls does the 2013 Mazda CX-9 have?

The 2013 Mazda CX-9 currently has 5 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2013 Mazda CX-9 a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **passenger frontal airbag inflator modules** are a critical safety concern requiring verification of recall completion. Inspect **front suspension and steering components**, including ball joints and control arms, for signs of wear or corrosion. While owner complaints are absent, the **5 recall campaigns** and 227 TSBs indicate potential for ongoing mechanical and electrical issues. Fuel economy is average for its class, with **19 MPG combined**. The **6-cylinder, 3.7-liter engine** provides adequate power but contributes to higher fuel costs. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2013 Mazda CX-9.

2013 Mazda CX-9 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026Ethan Miller3 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The passenger frontal airbag inflator modules are a critical safety concern requiring verification of recall completion.
Inspect front suspension and steering components, including ball joints and control arms, for signs of wear or corrosion.
While owner complaints are absent, the 5 recall campaigns and 227 TSBs indicate potential for ongoing mechanical and electrical issues.
Fuel economy is average for its class, with 19 MPG combined.

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Overview

2013 Mazda CX-9

The 2013 Mazda CX-9 is a three-row family SUV that aimed to blend Mazda's characteristic driving dynamics with practicality. It offers seating for up to seven and a capable, if not class-leading, powertrain. However, its appeal as a used vehicle is tempered by a history of safety recalls and a substantial number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), suggesting potential for numerous smaller issues beyond the major safety campaigns.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address potential degradation of passenger frontal airbag inflator modules, which can rupture upon deployment. This is a known systemic issue across multiple Mazda models.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a spacious three-row SUV on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Mazda CX-9 Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 19

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbag Inflator Degradation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Suspension and Steering Component Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

5 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2013 Mazda CX-9 reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Mazda CX-9 is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Mazda CX-9 for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Mazda CX-9 is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Mazda CX-9?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Front Suspension Components (Ball Joints, Control Arms) (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.

What transmission does the 2013 Mazda CX-9 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda CX-9, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda CX-9, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Mazda CX-9 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda CX-9, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Mazda CX-9?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Toyota Highlander and 2013 Honda Pilot.