How To Use The Mazda CX-9 Remote Start

in Model Info and Features
Red Mazda CX-9 parked in the desert
Mazda CX-9 by Thomas Rosquin - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Mazda CX-9 is a popular mid-size crossover SUV known for its elegant design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior. Thanks to Mazda’s KODO design language, which imparts a sleek and sophisticated appearance, the CX-9 manages to stand out in this very competitive segment. If you’re looking for a solid mid-size three-row SUV, the Mazda CX-9 is undoubtedly worth checking out.

Today, we will talk about the Mazda CX-9 remote start feature. Which model years and trims of the CX-9 have this convenient feature? How does the feature work? We’ll answer these questions and more.

What is Remote Start and Why Is It Nice to Have?

First, let’s quickly discuss the remote start function. Remote start is a feature in many modern cars that allows the driver to start the engine from outside the vehicle using a remote control, typically integrated into the key fob. This system communicates with the car’s onboard computer, activating the ignition process without the key being physically inserted into the ignition switch.

Here’s how it typically works:

  1. Signal Transmission: Pressing the start button on the remote or app sends a signal to the car’s computer system.
  2. Verification: The car’s system verifies the signal to ensure it’s from an authenticated source, often using rolling code encryption for security.
  3. Activation: Once verified, the system initiates the ignition process, and the engine will start.

The main benefit of remote start is the ability to start your car from a distance. This means you can also activate the climate system to warm or cool the interior in the comfort of your home or office. As a result, you can quickly drive comfortably instead of waiting inside for the ideal temperature before driving off.


DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP

The CoPilot car shopping app is the smartest way to buy a car. Get a curated list of the best cars for sale in your area, as well as notifications if a similar vehicle is listed nearby at a lower price. CoPilot is the smartest way to shop for used cars. 


Does the Mazda CX-9 Have a Remote Start?

The Mazda CX-9 does feature a remote start system, but the availability varies across model years and trims. Here’s a detailed look:

CX-9 Model Years with Remote Start

Mazda has offered options to add remote start since 2016, initially as an aftermarket product. Remote start became standard on many 2020-2021 models​. For the 2021 Mazda CX-9, remote start is available through the three-year free trial of Mazda Connected Services, allowing the vehicle to interact with a smartphone. This feature enables you to start and stop the engine using the MyMazda App on your smartphone.

For specific trim levels, the remote start system is standard on the Grand Touring trim and available as an option on the Sport and Touring trims​. It’s important to note that the availability of this feature may vary depending on the specific trim level and available packages.

Breaking it down, below is a quick summary of CX-9 model years and trims that support remote start, either standard or through an add-on.

  • 2016-2019 Models: Remote start available as an aftermarket option for these years​
  • 2020-2021 Models: Many come with remote start as a standard feature​. Also, the 021 model has remote start available through Mazda Connected Services on all trims.​
  • Trim Specifics for 2021 Model: Standard on the Grand Touring trim and Available as an option on the Sport and Touring trims​​.
  • 2018-2020 CX-9 Models: Can be fitted with a remote engine start install kit​.

It’s best to check the vehicle’s specifications directly for precise details about a specific model or trim. In addition, to learn more about the Mazda CX-9 remote start feature, we highly recommend our previous writeup about Mazda remote start.

How Does the Mazda CX-9 Remote Start Work?

Like many vehicles, there are two primary ways to activate remote start on your CX-9.

Via Key Fob

Using the Mazda CX-9 remote start with a key fob is straightforward. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

  • Ensure your Mazda CX-9 is properly locked and parked in a safe, open area (not in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space).

Step 2: Activate Remote Start

  • Locate the remote start button on your key fob. This is typically a separate button marked with a circular arrow symbol.
  • Press the lock button on your key fob.
  • Immediately after, press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds.
  • Your Mazda CX-9 should start, and you may see the parking lights turn on, indicating that the engine is running.

THE MAZDA CX-9 YEARS TO AVOID

We’ll provide details about the best models to buy and the Mazda CX-9 years to avoid. This is based on the information collected from users of different model years. 


Step 3: Confirmation

  • Confirm that the vehicle has started. You should hear the engine running, and the exterior lights may flash.

Step 4: Entering the Vehicle

  • To enter the vehicle while running via remote start, press the unlock button on your key fob.
  • As a safety feature, the engine may shut off once you open the door. This is normal in many remote start systems.

Step 5: Ready to Drive

  • After entering the vehicle, start the engine as you normally would with the push button start or key ignition. This step is necessary to engage the transmission and other systems for driving.

Via Mazda Connect App

On newer CX-9s, you’ll likely use the MyMazda app to access remote start and other features. Here’s a quick guide for you:

Step 1: Accessing the Mazda Connect App

  • Open the Mazda Connect app on your iPhone or Android. The app will display your vehicle’s details, including the model, remaining fuel percentage, and mileage.

Step 2: Locking the Vehicle

  • On the app’s main screen, you will find options to lock and unlock your vehicle.
  • To lock the vehicle, press and hold the ‘Lock’ button.
  • The app will send a request to lock the vehicle and notify you whether the request was successful or failed.

AI-ASSISTED CAR SHOPPING

Never miss out on the best car, never overpay, and never get taken advantage of. Download the CoPilot app to see the magic of AI-assisted car shopping.


Step 3: Starting the Vehicle

  • To start the vehicle, navigate to the app’s ‘Start’ and ‘Stop’ options.
  • Press and hold the ‘Start’ button to initiate the engine start.
  • The app will send a request to start the vehicle and will notify you once the request has been processed.

Step 4: Confirmation and Duration

  • Once the vehicle starts, the app will confirm the successful start.
  • The vehicle will remain running for 15 minutes after being started remotely. This safety feature ensures the car doesn’t stay on indefinitely if triggered accidentally.

These are general instructions, and specific steps may differ depending on your CX-9’s model year and trim. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for more detailed instructions and safety information.



Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You

The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.

Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.

The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.