Market Position:
The 2008 Mazda CX-9 positioned itself as a premium, three-row crossover SUV targeting families seeking practicality, upscale features, and engaging driving dynamics characteristic of the Mazda brand. It competed with rivals such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Edge.
Competitive Analysis:
The CX-9 stood out with its sportier handling, stylish exterior design, and a more driver-focused interior compared to some competitors. Its standard V6 engine and available AWD offered strong performance for its segment.
Key Features:
Three-row seating, available all-wheel drive, potent V6 engine, refined interior appointments, sharp exterior styling, and Mazda's signature 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics. The software provides comprehensive factory-level repair information.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Interior
Page Count:
Digital (Yearly Subscription Access)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software / Web-Based Access
Systems Covered:
Complete coverage of all major vehicle systems including powertrain, chassis, body, and electrical. Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, climate control, and infotainment.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, component diagnostics, removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance tasks to advanced electronic diagnostics and complete mechanical overhauls. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Standard:
6-Speed Automatic with Manual Shift (Activematic)
Optional:
N/A (Standard on all trims)
Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift control, sport mode.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-FZ (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon equivalent, refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.6 Liters (16.1 US Quarts) for complete drain and fill
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Test Rating:
5-Star (Front), 5-Star (Rear)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Passive Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, three-row side-curtain airbags, active front headrests, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Available touchscreen navigation system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input, Bose premium audio system option.
Driver Assistance:
Available rearview camera, parking sensors (rear), cruise control.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free phone system (available on higher trims), USB port (on some later models/packages within this generation).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal conditions). Refer to manual for detailed recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum tipped spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.2 US quarts (5.9 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) - 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Known Issues:
Some owners have reported issues with catalytic converter failure, carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection models introduced later, but good to be aware of potential early designs), and occasional transmission shifting anomalies. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker, has a history dating back to 1920, known for its focus on driving dynamics ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy), innovative technologies, and stylish designs. The brand has evolved from producing industrial goods to a global leader in automotive manufacturing.
Model Evolution:
The 2008 CX-9 marked the debut of Mazda's first three-row crossover SUV. It was built on a platform shared with Ford (CD3 platform, related to Mazda6), featuring a design that blended SUV utility with a more car-like driving experience. This generation (TB) ran from 2007 to 2015, with a significant facelift in 2012.
Production Years:
2007-2015
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Hofu Plant)
