NHTSA — Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Gasoline: Belts And Associated Pulleys Problems

CarComplaints.com Seal Of Avoid Like The Plague

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
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 1
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
42,000 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2008 Mazda CX-7 engine problems

engine problem

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2008 Mazda CX-7 Owner Comments

problem #1

Dec 072009

CX-7

  • 42,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2008 Mazda CX7. While driving black smoke was expelled through the vents of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. A technician from the dealer stated that the air conditioning clutch and belt had failed. He then added that the failure was a manufacturer defect. However, the estimated cost for the repair was $1,243. The manufacturer took a report, and a representative stated that they would assist with the repair. The vehicle was in the process of being repaired. The failure and current mileages were 42,000.

- Hiollywood , FL, USA

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