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:
61,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (1 reports)
2008 Mazda CX-7 engine problems

engine problem

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2008 Mazda CX-7 Owner Comments

problem #1

Jan 292015

CX-7

  • Automatic transmission
  • 61,000 miles

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

I HAVE WHITE SMOKE COMING FROM MY EXHAUST WHEN MY CAR IDLES. ALSO HAVE A BURNING OIL SMELL IN MY CAR. I TOOK IT TO GREEN MAZDA TO BE REPAIRED AND THEY INSTALLED A VENTILATION KIT. THIS HAS NOT HELPED. I TOOK IT BACK IN TO GREEN MAZDA AND THEY STATE THERE IS NOT A PROBLEM. SO THEY SAW A PROBLEM TO PUT THE VENT KIT BUT NOW THAT IT IS DOING THE SAME THING THERE IS NO PROBLEM? MY CAR HAS 61000 MILES AND THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THE TURBO.

- Tiffany C., Virden, IL, US

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