Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-9
For 2007–2021 models, the Honda CR-V has 25.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 38.1 for the Mazda CX-9. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2007–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Honda CR-V
25.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
34% fewer than the Mazda CX-9
- Complaints
- 11,436
- Sold
- 4,540,604
- Recall campaigns
- 38
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2007–2008 and 2017–2018. Fewest: 2012–2013, 2016 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 68,000 mi
-
Driver-assist cameras, radar and calibration
Typically around 16,750 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 66,350 mi
-
Injectors and high-pressure fuel system
Typically around 13,203 mi · repair $720–$2,150
Mazda CX-9
38.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.5× the Honda CR-V’s rate
- Complaints
- 1,448
- Sold
- 379,754
- Recall campaigns
- 12
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2016. Fewest: 2015 and 2019–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Master cylinder and booster
Typically around 67,000 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 106,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 53,625 mi
-
Control arms, ball joints and bushings
Typically around 107,300 mi · repair $230–$700
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 107,300 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Honda CR-V or the Mazda CX-9?
For 2007–2021 models, the Honda CR-V has 25.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Mazda CX-9 has 38.1, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Honda CR-V?
The most-reported problem on the Honda CR-V is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 68,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Mazda CX-9?
The most-reported problem on the Mazda CX-9 is master cylinder and booster, typically around 67,000 miles.
Which Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-9 years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Honda CR-V: 2007–2008 and 2017–2018; Mazda CX-9: 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2016.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.