NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2022 Mazda CX-9 Safety Ratings
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 scores 90 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Exceptional), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 0 recalls, and 9 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 achieves an exceptional safety profile, marked by a perfect absence of recalls and robust crash-test performance. This model year scores a 90 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index, positioning it as a top contender for those prioritizing safety in the used market. Its comprehensive suite of standard crash-avoidance technologies further reinforces its protective capabilities.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 received a 5-out-of-5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 90/100, based on NHTSA crash-test and recall data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 135 SUVs from 2022 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 ranks 39 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 90 / 100 (Exceptional) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 15.9% |
| Recalls on file | 0 |
| Owner complaints | 9 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 39 of 135 SUVs tested for 2022 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2022 Mazda CX-9?
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 marks a meaningful step forward in the NHTSA Safety Index, climbing to 90/100 in the Exceptional band from the 2021 model's 87/100 Strong rating, a three-point gain that reflects a cleaner defect record rather than any change in crash-test hardware. The defect record sub-score of 19/20 is the clearest expression of what separates this year from its predecessor: zero recall campaigns on file gives this cohort a near-perfect defect score that the prior year could not match. Crash protection contributes 61 of a possible 70 points, anchored by the 5-star overall and 5-star side ratings from NHTSA. The 4-star frontal and 4-star rollover scores are solid but represent the ceiling for improvement in future model years. Avoidance technology scores a full 10/10, reflecting forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all arriving as standard equipment rather than optional add-ons. Nine reported complaints is a modest figure for a model year of this age, and no single component has generated a pattern large enough to trigger a recall investigation based on current data. Taken together, the 2022 model year is distinguished by its combination of a clean recall slate and top-tier overall crash protection.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2022 Mazda CX-9 perform in crash tests?
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 achieved a 5 out of 5 star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its side impact protection earned the highest possible mark, 5 stars. Frontal crash protection received 4 out of 5 stars. In rollover testing, the CX-9 rated 4 out of 5 stars, with a calculated rollover risk of 16 percent; the dynamic tip test showed no tip.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16101
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2022 Mazda CX-9 have any recalls?
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 has zero recall campaigns on file with NHTSA. No components have been flagged, and no park-outside or do-not-drive advisory applies to this model year. Shoppers should still run a VIN check through NHTSA's database to confirm that status remains current.
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2022 Mazda CX-9?
Nine owner complaints have been reported to NHTSA for this model year, including alleged issues with the Electrical System, Structure, and Exterior Lighting, each with two reports, plus single reports for Visibility/Wiper, Service Brakes, and Forward Collision Avoidance. These are unverified consumer allegations, not confirmed defects.
9 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2022 Mazda CX-9?
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 currently has no open recalls on file with NHTSA. This is a positive indicator for its initial safety performance. However, prospective owners should still consult the VIN-specific recall lookup tool before purchasing any used vehicle, as new campaigns can be issued at any time, and ensuring remedy completion is paramount for ongoing safety.
- The 2022 model year carries zero NHTSA recall campaigns, earning a near-perfect defect sub-score of 19/20 and helping push the Safety Index three points above the 2021 model year's 87/100.
- NHTSA's side-crash test produced a 5-star result, while frontal and rollover tests each returned 4 stars, with a 16 percent rollover risk and a no-tip result in the dynamic test.
- All three crash-avoidance technologies tracked by NHTSA, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control, are standard on this model year, contributing a full 10/10 avoidance-tech sub-score.
- Nine unverified complaints have been reported to NHTSA, with Electrical System, Structure, and Exterior Lighting each cited twice. No component has accumulated enough reports to generate a recall, but shoppers should monitor NHTSA's complaint database for any emerging patterns.
RANKINGSWhere the 2022 Mazda CX-9 places
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2022 Mazda CX-9 safety questions
Was the 2022 Mazda CX-9 crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2022 Mazda CX-9, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 90 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2022 Mazda CX-9 crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2022 Mazda CX-9 earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 15.9%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2022 Mazda CX-9 have?
According to NHTSA recall data, no vehicle recalls are on file for the 2022 Mazda CX-9 as of Oct 1, 2026. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the Safety Index. Run your VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm the status is current.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2022 Mazda CX-9?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 9 owner complaints are on file for the 2022 Mazda CX-9. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other CX-9 years
Rivals in SUV (2022)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2022 Infiniti Qx55 | 99/100 | not rated | 1 |
| 2022 Buick Encore GX | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2022 Buick Envision | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2022 Nissan Murano | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2022 Buick Enclave | 94/100 | 4 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 16101), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Mazda CX-9 2022.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 39 of 135 in the SUV class for 2022.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.