Do you own a 2016–2019 Mazda CX-9 with a 7" Mazda Connect infotainment display? If so, you may have encountered bubbling, peeling, or delamination issues on your touchscreen.
This is a known and frustrating problem—but one that can be repaired. Keep reading for more details and DIY guidance to help you fix it yourself.
This issue has also been referred to by Mazda as Mazda Connect Center Display Cracking (Spider Cracking) in their official service communication Service Alert SA-008/18.
Why Is the Mazda Connect Touch Screen Delaminating or Spider Cracking?
The Mazda Connect infotainment system was designed with a critical defect that causes delamination bubbles to appear after 5–7 years of use—on every single unit.
That’s right: a 100% failure rate.
The issue stems from the adhesive used to bond the touch screen to the LCD. Over time, this glue loses its bond, a process known asdelamination, and it only worsens as time goes on. If you’re already seeing a bubble, it’s a sign that complete screen failure is imminent.
While there are multiple screen variants produced by different manufacturers, they all suffer from the same design flaw. You can even see the glue separation on removed panels.
This adhesive bonding method was widely used in touch screens from 2009–2020 across many vehicle brands and models—making it a common and well-documented problem.
What Happens When Delamination Occurs?
When delamination begins, a visible bubble forms between the touch screen and the LCD. This bubble leads to a range of touch response issues, including:
Lost or inconsistent touch functionality
Unresponsive or frozen touch input
Random or erratic touch behavior
These issues can render your Mazda CX-9’s infotainment system nearly unusable. In some cases, the system may even initiate random commands—such as dialing contacts without user input. This phenomenon is commonly referred to asghost touchorphantom touch.
What model vehicles are affected by the uconnect 4 delamination?
2016-2019 Mazda CX-9 All Models
What are my options?
Of course, this failure usually happens right outside of warranty.
If you go to the dealer, here is what will happen.
Diagnostic fee- $201.60
Head unit replacement- $3,202.23
Installation and programming- $509.12
However, there is no need to waste your time and money with the dealer.
We have engineered a superior touch panel assembly that you can easily install on your current head unit and fix all the issues permanently.
Easy:Install it in an hour in your driveway or garage. Or take it to a competent qualified car audio shop. No hassling with the dealer drop off appointments and picking your car up.
Save $$:Our panels are much lower cost than the dealer option
Permanent fix:We provide a lifetime warranty on the improved design.
How do I replace the delaminated bubble screen on the Mazda cx-9?
