Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking a spacious and versatile vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Pathfinder.
Design Philosophy:
KODO - Soul of Motion design language, emphasizing flowing lines and dynamic presence.
Differentiating Factors:
Engaging driving dynamics (for an SUV), premium interior feel, available AWD, 3-row seating.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Emission Control
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain Components (AWD/FWD), Axles, Driveshafts, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Locks, Wiper System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnosis, Fault Finding Procedures
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Adjustment
Diagnostics:
Scan Tool Operation, Live Data Interpretation, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Alignment Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body panel repair.
Accuracy:
Dealership Level: Equivalent to factory service manuals (FSM) used by certified technicians.
Engine Type:
3.7L V6 (Naturally Aspirated)
Bore X Stroke:
95.5 mm x 86.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
273 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque:
269 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (NHTSA ratings vary by specific configuration and year, check individual reports)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely rated well by IIHS, often achieving Top Safety Pick status.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
ABS:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
Driver Assistance Options:
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) (depending on trim)
Airbags:
Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags (all rows)
Seat Belts:
3-point ELR seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for child seats.
Display Size:
7-inch touchscreen (standard on most trims).
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary inputs, Pandora, Stitcher, Aha integration.
Navigation:
Available optional factory navigation system.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available (i-ACTIVSENSE package).
Automatic Emergency Braking:
Available (Smart City Brake Support - SCBS).
Lane Keeping Assist:
Available (Lane Departure Warning System - LDWS).
Smartphone Integration:
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the 2016 model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Cabin Air Filter:
Recommended every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.
Engine Air Filter:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or every two years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; often 'lifetime' but service interval of 75,000-100,000 miles recommended for longevity.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (Mazda Genuine Oil or equivalent meeting API SN, ILSAC GF-5)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual (likely ATF or specific power steering fluid)
Common Complaints:
While the 2016 CX-9 is generally reliable, potential areas for attention based on general Mazda knowledge might include carbon buildup on direct-injection engines (though this model is MPI), transmission shifting characteristics under certain conditions, and potential for minor electrical gremlins (rare).
Technical Bulletins:
The manual will detail any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Mazda for specific repair procedures or known faults.
Manufacturer:
Mazda Motor Corporation, Japan
First Generation:
Introduced in 2007, a large crossover based on a Mazda CX-9 platform and shared some components with Ford models (e.g., Ford Edge).
Second Generation Start:
The 2016 model year marked the introduction of the second generation, featuring a completely redesigned platform, the introduction of Skyactiv-D diesel engine globally (though not in North America for 2016), and the signature Kodo design language.
Production Start Year:
2007
Production Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan (for most markets including North America).
