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2021 Mazda CX-9 Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ryan Davis
2021 Mazda CX-9 Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 CX-9 received a recall for the second-row seat assembly, which could slide forward in a crash. Verify this repair is completed.
  • With an overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 stars, the CX-9 is a secure choice, though frontal crash and rollover ratings are 4 stars.
  • Expect a combined EPA fuel economy of 23 MPG, contributing to moderate running costs.
  • The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine provides a responsive driving experience, typical of Mazda's focus on driver engagement.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Mazda CX-9

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 presents itself as a family-oriented three-row SUV with a premium feel, a trait not always common in its segment. Under the hood, it's powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers adequate performance for daily driving and highway cruising. The 4-wheel drive system enhances its all-weather capability. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 23 MPG. However, a significant recall concerning the second-row seat's potential to slide forward in a crash warrants careful attention for used car shoppers.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall (21V750000) addresses the potential for the second-row seat to slide forward in a crash due to an issue with the internal seat mechanism. This impacts occupant safety by compromising the seat belt's effectiveness.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing three rows of seating with a desire for a more premium interior feel.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking the absolute lowest running costs; fuel economy is average for the class.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Mazda CX-9 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Mazda CX-9.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Second-Row Seat Stability

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Various Minor Issues (indicated by TSBs)

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 - $180

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Second-Row Seat Mechanism (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Mazda CX-9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-9, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-9, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-9, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Mazda CX-9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-9, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Mazda CX-9?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Highlander and 2021 Honda Pilot.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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