I own a 2008 GT AWD CX-9. Recently took it out for normal driving in about 3-4 inches of snow. First of all, I got it stuck in my unplowed driveway (I know I should have plowed it first, but hubby was working and I needed to run to the bank in the small town I live in), and then once I finally got it out of the driveway, it slid a lot more than it usually does on the road. Also, when attempting to get it out of the driveway, only the left front wheel appeared to be turning and the Traction Control light was flashing and the 4x4 Malfunction light flashed several times. I live up on a hill and also had great trouble getting back up the drive and into the garage. When I was climbing the driveway, the Traction Control and 4x4 lights were flashing again. It is out of warranty and so I took it to my usual, trustworthy mechanic and he was unable to find any computer codes or indication that anything was wrong. He suggested that I take it to a Mazda dealer and see what they could tell me. The local Mazda dealer said that they put it up on the rack (or whatever you call it) and all 4 wheels turned like they should and when they put resistance on one of the back wheels, it was still trying to turn. Mazda dealer mentioned PCM or transfer case, or 4x4 actuator (which I guess are all the same thing) but said no indication of that going bad at this time. I know something just isn't right. Any other ideas out there?

 

Have you driven it in snow before?
What type of tyres are on it?
Next trip, turn off the traction control & see if its any better.

 

Yes, I have driven it in snow before. I have had it for many years now. It has new Pirelli Scorpion STS tires on it. If you turn the traction control off, does it turn it off until you turn it back on or is it just a temporary turning off?

 

Temporary. Some Mazda's will turn it back on at a certain speed. All Mazda s turn it back on every time you start the car.