Best And Worst Years For The Mazda CX-7

The Mazda CX-7, a compact SUV that went on sale in 2007, was produced by Mazda until 2012, when it was discontinued.

The Mazda CX-7 received excellent reviews for safety, cost, and performance during this period.

Although the Mazda CX-7 is a well-regarded compact SUV across the board, some model years were better than others in terms of performance.

Now you probably wonder, what are the best and worst years for Mazda CX-7?

I will be listing down all the years, their benefits and drawbacks as well as the problems so you can make your decision easier.

Worst Years for Mazda CX-7:

1. 2007
2. 2008
3. 2010
4. 2011

Best Years for Mazda CX-7:

1. 2009
2. 2012

Overall, it is said that the Mazda CX-7 is a fantastic compact-sized SUV that you need to take into consideration if you’re looking to buy a used car that’s fun to drive as well as ideal for small families.

But before you do that, read this article carefully to learn about all its pros and cons and how to deal with the vehicle when in problems.

What Are The Worst Years For The Mazda CX-7? Which Years To Avoid

Vehicles manufactured by Mazda are renowned for being dependable and effective.

It is advised to avoid specific models due to potential manufacturing flaws that could result in major problems for the drivers.

Listed below are the major models that have drawn a lot of flak and you should make every effort to steer clear of if you want to avoid overspending on maintenance or new equipment.

1. 2007 Mazda CX-7

Some automobiles are simply headed for the scrapyard.

Though that’s how you would react when you receive yet another maintenance bill on this model year, making you wonder whether you should go for that long-awaited trip or not.

You must know that the 2007 Mazda CX-7 falls under this title. You would not want to purchase the 2007 Mazda CX-7 if you are seeking a used vehicle and have become infatuated with it.

Car Complaints claims that this is a vehicle you must never purchase.

The timing chain stretching out is the primary issue. The engine suffers serious damage, which is difficult and expensive to repair.

The engine must be completely replaced if the valves are bent.

Owning and operating a 2007 Mazda CX-7 will come with a hefty price tag of about $7,000, so be prepared for large expenditures.

Other than that, the compressor failed for numerous drivers as well. It happens every 60,000 miles up to 70,000 miles, a relatively low mileage rate.

2. 2008 Mazda CX-7

There were numerous complaints about the 2008 Mazda CX-7 vehicles, similar to the previous model year. Some drivers continued to have engine-related difficulties.

At 107,000 miles, just several drivers experienced lit check engine lights in addition to failing turbochargers. The entire engine failed in the 2008 Mazda CX-7 model year.

Even several drivers claimed that the engine had stopped running suddenly, which can create a big hazardous situation if it were ever to happen to you on the road in the middle of heavy traffic.

Also, remember that the only method to repair the engine in a 2008 model year vehicle was to replace it completely.

For all of the necessary repairs, some drivers were required to spend over $5,000.

The speed sensors and timing belt replacement requests from certain dealers only served to exacerbate the situation.

3. 2010 Mazda CX-7

Whether you buy a used one or a new 2010 Mazda CX-7, you must know that this vehicle is still likely to have a lot of issues, especially in its initial years.

Software problems with this car are well-known and can even endanger your life.

It is rumored that when the air conditioner is on while the car is moving, the ECM seems to malfunction and increase the vehicle’s speed.

If you are braking, the automobile won’t stop, and the driver must apply more force to the brakes.

Even if you are braking, the vehicle receives an additional energy boost and surges forward while it keeps rolling.

4. 2011 Mazda CX-7

The Mazda CX-7 from 2011 may be experiencing a power shortage due to a failed turbocharger. To restore engine power, failing turbochargers must also be replaced.

Numerous people claimed that the issue became so serious that 300 or more people chose not to purchase it. There were suspension issues with a few car model years in 2011.

The front control arm would then disengage from the ball joint fitment, which was to blame. For this issue, Mazda thankfully issued a recall.

It is also worth mentioning that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has highlighted that another most common issue found in this model year was the lighting system.

There have been more than 30 problems submitted on this, and other issues also include brake problems, transmission system problems, and so on.

What Are The Best Years For The Mazda CX-7? Which Years To Buy

Now that the list of the least desirable model years has been shown, it should be simple for you to review the list of the best models and decide if you like it.

Here are the Mazda CX-7 models you ought to pick from if you ever have the opportunity to purchase one.

1. 2009 Mazda CX-7

If you are considering purchasing a Mazda CX-7 model, the 2009 Mazda CX-7, rumored to have only had three distinct trims during the year but had many advantages to support the lack of alternatives, is unquestionably the car for you.

The model, which had superb handling and acceleration, received many innovative standard features that improved the car’s ride quality and a stylish makeover for the year.

The materials used within the cabin were of the highest caliber, and the back seats could have been folded to increase the storage space.

Without the cargo compartment not being as large as it could be and the turbocharger requiring premium fuel, which would generally always be beneficial for your vehicle, the vehicle gives a lot of excitement to drive and safety inside, making it valuable.

With both a 6-speed automatic transmission and AWD versions, the basic engine also featured a turbocharger and 244 horsepower.

2. 2012 Mazda CX-7

Only a few concerns about paint and engine issues blemish the nearly flawless track record of the 2012 Mazda CX-7. The car’s manufacture ended this year.

However, the engine may not have been the reason for it. A Mazda representative claimed that poor sales caused the CX-7 to fail. Only 1,000 CX-7s were sold in the year it was most profitable.

The poor sales do not mean that the 2012 model is a bad vehicle or that you shouldn’t purchase it.

It is one of the most reliable from all the years plus it barely had any issues and the least complaints.

The news is that a known and utilized 2012 Mazda CX-7 can be purchased for as low as $6,000. This is a fantastic deal when considering that it originally cost $22,000.

How Reliable Is A Mazda CX-7?

Overall, the Mazda CX-7 is a reliable vehicle for many people.

However, you must know that the reliability ratings will mainly depend on the model year you are thinking about purchasing.

The most reliable years have to be 2009 Mazda CX-7 model year and 2012.

According to Repair Pal, the Mazda CX-7 also received an overall reliability rate of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is said to be pretty average, and a great rating for a small SUV vehicle.

How Long Do Mazda CX-7 Last?

Many websites claim that this car is rather dependable and indicate that the Mazda CX-7 has a reasonable average lifespan of above 200,000 miles, after which it might be financially impossible to continue using it because of the cost of repairs.

Making sure that the automobile has routine maintenance and care can help you prevent all of this.

It will improve the vehicle’s performance and extend its life expectancy to more than 250,000 miles, which again will greatly improve your experience of driving.

There is no need to fear if you are thinking about buying a Mazda CX-7, considering that it is unquestionably a very efficient SUV.

It has great current and future features that I know many of you will acknowledge. It is fashionable and strong, and some people have claimed that it was far ahead of its time.

What To Do To Lengthen The Life Of Your Mazda CX-7

How your Mazda CX-7 runs will depend on how you take care of your vehicle.

If you want your vehicle to last for a long period, then there are certain measures that you need to take quite seriously, as well as have patience so they can work efficiently.

So with that being said, here are some ways to increase the life of your Mazda CX-7.

• Replace the old tires whenever needed, especially when they are balanced unevenly.
• Make sure won’t let the vehicle overheat as that can easily damage the engine and transmission.
• Drive on even clean roads, so the tires don’t get damaged.
• Do not overload the vehicle all the time.
• Provide the vehicle with regular maintenance or check the owner’s manual to see when is the ideal time.
• Clean all the vehicle parts as regularly as possible, so no dust or debris starts forming on the important parts of the vehicle.

These are the most important tips you need to try yourself. The Mazda CX-7 will surely be able to survive a long time as well as travel way above 250,000 miles.

However, you must know that this is possible only if you adhere to these recommendations as well as implement them into your daily routine.

Things That Shorten The Lifespan Of Your Mazda CX-7

While there are clear ways that you can extend the lifespan of the Mazda CX-7, there are additionally unquestionable actions that you might take that can easily shorten the lifespan of that vehicle.

This is why driving your vehicle carefully and knowing about all its maintenance is crucial for you as a vehicle owner.

The following activities that I will be mentioning below can somehow reduce the lifespan of the Mazda CX-7 and, therefore, should be avoided at all costs:

• Not filling up the tank can make the engine and the transmission system burn out quickly.
• Not using the interior parts of the vehicle properly or using them too harshly, especially the brakes and the acceleration.
• Not using high-quality products for your vehicle or not using the ones recommended by the owner’s manual.
• Always driving on harsh road conditions, and as a result, the tires puncture easily or get worn out, or are uneven.
• Not going to the mechanics whenever something wrong happens; instead, ignore it or attempt to fix it by yourself.
• Always letting the vehicle stay longer in the sunlight during summer and in the snow during winter.
• Not getting replacements of the parts acting up, ignoring them.

Well, there you have it; some of the major mistakes many drivers tend to make can hurt the vehicle they drive.

To make your vehicle last longer, make sure you are changing your driving habits and paying close attention, especially not doing all the above mentioned things.

The Mazda CX-7 is surely a reliable vehicle, but you must keep in mind that no vehicle will be able to survive for long if the owner doesn’t show any concern for it.

3 Most Mazda CX-7 Common Problems You Should Know

Here I will list several of the most typical issues you might encounter if you purchase a Mazda CX-7.

Do read this part carefully, as this part may assist you in making the right choice.

1. Turbocharger Malfunction

There is a well-established history of the Mazda CX-7’s turbocharger failing, which causes a shortage of power and acceleration.

Another sign of a bad turbo is white flames pouring from the exhaust and a lack of power plus acceleration.

Changing the turbo will probably be necessary to fix the problem if you exhibit these signs.

2. Defective AC Compressor

Another typical problem faced by owners of Mazda CX-7s is AC compressor failure.

According to reports, the car’s cabin started receiving heated air from the AC system, and occasionally smoke was seen emerging from the engine.

You will need to have the AC compressor changed to fix this problem. Fortunately, Mazda has noticed the problem and prolonged the compressor warranty.

3. Transmission Failure

Transmission issues with the Mazda CX-7 frequently manifest as grinding or jumping when accelerating, delayed shifting, engine noises that sound like whistles, shaky driving, or perhaps a burning odor emanating from under the hood.

Since this is a frequent problem, Mazda advises owners to have their transmissions frequently checked for damage.

In some cases, you may not be able to drive your car if you ignore these transmission problem symptoms. Your fuel economy may also start to decrease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Mazda CX-7 A Good Car?

It is well known that diesel is more cost-effective than gasoline. The 2.5-liter gasoline engine and the 2.2-liter diesel engine are both available for the Mazda CX-7, a well-built, medium-sized SUV.

You should know that reliability is not an issue; you may purchase this vehicle with assurance.

Q2: Do Mazda CX-7 Hold Their Value?

Yes, the Mazda CX-7 is well known for holding its value in the market.

The Mazda CX-7 is anticipated to hold its value well after purchase, greatly exceeding that of the majority of large SUVs in its class and matching that of competitors like the Nissan Murano and Honda CR-V.

Q3: How Many Mazda CX-7 Have Been Sold?

As you know, the Mazda CX-7 was discontinued in 2012. So, according to that, the last time Mazda CX-7 was sold was in 2012, and around 13,433 were sold.

This was the lowest sales for this vehicle during that year. This vehicle had the highest sales in 2007, as 41,659 were sold.

Q4: Which Mazda CX-7 Engine Is The Most Reliable?

The 2.3 liters turbo or the 2.5 liters non-turbo engine is the most reliable for Mazda CX-7. However, the 2.5 liters has to be the most reliable of the two of them.

Q5: Is Mazda CX-7 Expensive To Maintain?

No, fortunately, Mazda CX-7 is not an expensive vehicle to maintain at all. It is said that overall, Mazda CX-7 has yearly vehicle maintenance costs of around $470.

Conclusion

Although the Mazda CX-7 is not in the market anymore and was discontinued in 2012, it is still quite popular and reliable for all it has to offer.

I hope my article was able to help you because if you are in the market to buy one, then you should get a used Mazda CX-7.

Lastly, always look at the best and worst years for Mazda CX-7 first, as that will help make your decision much easier.