2009 Mazda CX-9 Pricing and Specs

You say the battery is okay, and it’s possible for it to show 12 volts on a multi-meter, yet still be ready to be replaced. The trick is to load test the battery. That is, measure the voltage across the terminals while the battery is trying to crank the engine. Sometimes, a battery that seems okay with no load will turn to jelly once you apply the starter-motor load.

Cars (and batteries) don’t like sitting around doing nothing. The car’s alarm and even things like the clock in the dashboard will all continue to run, slowly draining the battery. A drained battery, if sat long enough, will often not recover even if you try to recharge it. Beyond that, an auto electrician will be your best first stop.

In some cases, with some versions of the CX-9, you can get a long screwdriver in between the bonnet and grille and manually flip the catch that will allow the bonnet to spring open. The trick is that you have to know where the catch is and since you can't see in there, it can be very difficult if not impossible.

If you have access to one, a borescope (a tiny camera on a thin, flexible shaft, might get you to the point where you can identify the latch and successfully aim the screwdriver. But at all times, you risk damaging the grille or bonnet.

You could take the car to a Mazda dealer or specialist who has probably seen this thing before and may have a few short-cuts to get the bonnet open. And since you're going to need a new cable anyway, you're then in the right place. If the job is a really tough one, you may find you need to remove the grille and even the front bumper to gain the access you need.

There is one and it’s an important one. It affects the Takata airbags in the car. To get more info call Mazda on 1800 931 024.