Cylinder head coolant leaks
The 2016 CX-9 drew about twice the model average complaint rate. Coolant leaking from the cylinder head is the main problem.
Updated November 2026 · based on 99 owner complaints and 0 recalls
Not rated
635 2.0x the CX-9 average
0 free to fix at a dealer
Every CX-9 year compared
Owner complaints per 100,000 cars sold. Lower is better. The newest years have had less time to collect complaints, so they are marked too new to judge.
Known problems on the 2016 CX-9
Top problems and what they cost
Cylinder head coolant leak
Coolant loss and overheating from the cylinder head.
Fix: Covered under warranty on many; otherwise $2,000 to $4,000
Engine
Smart brake support
Brake system malfunction warnings.
Fix: Calibration $150 to $400
Brakes
Recalls
No recalls for this year.
Complaints by part
Before you buy a 2016 Mazda CX-9
- Check the coolant level when cold.Coolant keeps the engine from overheating. A dropping level, drips, white smoke or residue can mean leaks or a failing head gasket, which can ruin the engine.Owners filed 53 complaints about coolant leaks on the 2016 CX-9, one of the worst years for it.
- Ask whether the cylinder head was replaced.Coolant keeps the engine from overheating. A dropping level, drips, white smoke or residue can mean leaks or a failing head gasket, which can ruin the engine.Owners filed 53 complaints about coolant leaks on the 2016 CX-9, one of the worst years for it.
Questions
Is the 2016 Mazda CX-9 reliable?
Cylinder head coolant leaks. The 2016 CX-9 drew about twice the model average complaint rate. Coolant leaking from the cylinder head is the main problem.
How many recalls does the 2016 Mazda CX-9 have?
0 recalls. Recall repairs are free at any Mazda dealer, even for later owners. Enter the VIN on the free government recall lookup to see which are still open on a specific car.
What are the most common 2016 Mazda CX-9 problems?
Cylinder head coolant leak; Smart brake support.
Crash rating shown for the tested version. Repair costs are typical U.S. ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. How we score.