Mazda CX-9 TB (2006–2015): How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Facelift

The first generation Mazda CX-9 was produced from 2006 to 2015, undergoing one significant facelift during this period. The debut took place in 2006 at the New York Auto Show, and in 2010 the CX-9 received an updated exterior, interior, and technical improvements. In 2013, minor cosmetic changes were made (for example, a new radiator grille), but this wasn't considered a full facelift.

 

Model Code and Platform
The Mazda CX-9 Mk1 had the factory designation TB. Unlike the more compact CX-7 which was based on the Mazda MPV platform, the CX-9 was built on an extended version of the Ford CD3 platform shared with the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. This explains the use of a Ford engine in early versions of the model.

 

Body Type and Modifications
The CX-9 is a full-size 7-seater crossover with three rows of seats. Before the 2010 facelift, only front-wheel drive (FWD) was offered, but later an all-wheel drive (AWD) version with Active Torque Split system appeared.

Main modifications included:

  • Base (Sport) - minimalistic trim with fabric upholstery and basic multimedia

  • Mid-range (Touring) - added leather seats, upgraded audio system and additional comfort options

  • Top-spec (Grand Touring) - included xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control, navigation system and premium interior trim

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP-(T25+S20)<

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Lift up and secure the hood

  2. Under the hood, unscrew two screws and remove four clips securing the upper part of the front bumper and radiator grille

  3. From underneath, unscrew six screws securing the fender liners and two screws securing the lower panel (you can also unscrew six screws and remove the bumper without this panel, but removing it with the panel is easier in my opinion)

  4. In the wheel arches, remove two clips per side from the wheel arch extensions (the lower half of the wheel arch extension fits into the upper half, so first you need to free the edge of the upper wheel arch extension)

  5. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (you need to pull sharply on the bumper corners toward yourself)

  6. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward (pay attention to the wires)

  7. Disconnect electrical component connectors (if present)

Mazda CX-9 (2006–2015) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Mazda CX-9 (2006–2015) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid

  2. Under the trunk lid, remove two covers and unscrew the screws underneath them

  3. Unscrew two screws per side, release from internal clips (pull toward yourself) and remove the rear lights

  4. Under the rear lights, remove one clip per side (inserted top to bottom) securing the upper part of the rear bumper

  5. From underneath, remove two clips and unscrew two screws (screwed in and inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part

  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew two screws, remove two clips, release from clips and remove the fender liners

  7. Remove one clip per side securing the corners to the brackets in the fenders

  8. Release the clips in the fenders (carefully pull the corner toward yourself. The upper wheel arch extension will interfere - you need to release its lower part from the clip)

  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward (watch for wires)

  10. Disconnect electrical component connectors (if installed)

Mazda CX-9 (2006–2015) rear bumper mounting locations

Mazda CX-9 (2006–2015) rear bumper mounting diagram

Model Description
The CX-9 Mk1's design reflected Mazda's style of that period - aggressive radiator grille, dynamic body lines and pronounced wheel arches. After the 2010 facelift, the model received a new front end with a "smiling" grille, matching Mazda's then design philosophy.

The interior used quality materials, and while the third row was somewhat tight for adults, it was among the most spacious in its class. Top versions offered three-zone climate control and power-folding seats.

 

Technical Features
Before 2010, the CX-9 was equipped with a 3.5L Ford Duratec V6 producing 263 HP and 339 Nm of torque. After the facelift, it was replaced with a 3.7L Mazda MZI V6 producing 273 HP and 367 Nm. Both engines paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The AWD version used Active Torque Split system which automatically distributed torque between axles depending on road conditions.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Ford Connection - Due to the Mazda-Ford partnership in the 2000s, the CX-9 shared its platform and engines with American models. This also explains why early CX-9s were assembled at a Ford plant in the USA

  • Awards - In 2008 and 2011, the CX-9 was named "Best Family SUV" by Motor Trend magazine

  • Safety - After NHTSA crash tests (2008), the model received 5 stars, and in IIHS tests (2010) it earned "Top Safety Pick"

  • Rarity in Europe - The CX-9 was hardly sold in Europe due to its large size and high fuel consumption. Main markets were USA, Canada, Australia and Middle East

  • Successor - In 2016, the second-gen CX-9 (code TC) switched to the Skyactiv platform, replacing the V6 with a 2.5L turbo engine

 

Conclusion
The Mazda CX-9 Mk1 is an important model in the brand's history that helped establish it in the large crossover segment. Despite using Ford components, it featured good handling and a spacious interior. The 2010 facelift made it more modern, but by 2015 its outdated platform and high fuel consumption reduced its competitiveness. Nevertheless, on the used car market, the first-gen CX-9 remains a reliable and practical choice.