CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2008 Mazda CX-7 has numerous reports filed with the NHTSA about engine & A/C problems, continuing these defect trends from the 2007 model year.
Owners report problems with the 2008 CX-7's Variable Valve Timing (VVT) & timing chain failing, causing major damage to the engine — Mazda uses an interference design so typically the valves are bent & the entire engine needs to be replaced. Mazda dealers typically quote $9,000 for an engine replacement.
There is also a trend of the turbo failing at low mileage.
Finally for the 2008 CX-7 there is a clear pattern of A/C compressor failure at relatively low mileage. Owners report smoke & occasionally the serpentine belt catches fire when the A/C compressor clutch seizes while driving. Mazda extended the A/C warranty to 60,000 miles, however many owners report their A/C compressor failed very soon after the 60k mark.
In 2011, Mazda began a "Special Service Program" that extended the warranty to 7 years/70,000 miles covering turbocharger oil leaks & excessive timing chain noise — an early sign of timing chain failure. However coverage under the program requires perfect documentation of all required maintenance with other stipulations. Buyer beware.
10.0
really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
31,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints
Most Common Solutions:
replaced alternator, belts, and pullys (1 reports)
We were on our way back from Disney world to Dallas Texas, we had drove there and half way back before we heard a loud squealing noise, then a loud "Thump" then the a/c went out and all the warning lights turned on and the car died and we coasted to the side of the road. We were 30 miles east of Tallahassee FL. on CHRISTMAS DAY!!! It was myself, my wife, my 10 year old daughter and my 18mo son stuck on the side of the road for 6 hours! Then took us 9 days to get the car back! Great time! Then shortly there after the damn water pump ceased up and caused the car to overheat! SCREW THESE CARS!! The only good thing was that both FAILURES occurred under warranty. But just by 8 miles. Talk about Luck.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
We were on our way back from Disney world to Dallas Texas, we had drove there and half way back before we heard a loud squealing noise, then a loud "Thump" then the a/c went out and all the warning lights turned on and the car died and we coasted to the side of the road. We were 30 miles east of Tallahassee FL. on CHRISTMAS DAY!!! It was myself, my wife, my 10 year old daughter and my 18mo son stuck on the side of the road for 6 hours! Then took us 9 days to get the car back! Great time! Then shortly there after the damn water pump ceased up and caused the car to overheat! SCREW THESE CARS!! The only good thing was that both FAILURES occurred under warranty. But just by 8 miles. Talk about Luck.
- Nate O., Allen, TX, US