Vehicle Shudder Problems of Mazda CX9

When driving vehicle a severe shuddering vibration and loud noise emaneted from front end of vehicle, as if front axel was going to fall off. Happened three times so far. Once to my wife, once to me, and once to the mechanic. Very frightening each time, causing drivers to pull over and turn off vehicle. Then vehicle drives ok for a while. Happened while driving straight forward. Mechanic states it is a failed power transfer unit. Mechanic's research indicated it is a big problem in Mazda cx-9 vehicles, and a class action lawsuit was filed and resulted in a settlement. As far as I can tell that settlement does not cover my vehicle year (2008), and is limited to vehicles manufactured after 2010, and which meet certain specifications. Mechanic estimates repair will run in the $1100-$1500 range. Wondering if I have any recourse with regard to this problem and the fact that it seems a manufacturing defect rather then normal wear and tear.

See all problems of the 2008 Mazda CX9 🔎.

I was driving home on a busy interstate when my car started shaking and losing power. They car lost all power and I couldn't turn the steering wheel to get out of the way of other drivers. I was almost hit more than once by other cars. After having the vehicle towed and a licensed mechanic look at it, I was told the water pump failed and leaked water and coolant into my engine which completely disabled my engine.

See all problems of the 2007 Mazda CX9 🔎.

While making a right turn into a parking place, the right front ball joint broke and cv joint became disconnected, causing the wheel to become disconnected from the car and pushing the wheel well back under the passenger door, making it inoperable. The tow driver said I must have hit something really hard, but in the two and a half years I've had this car, I've never hit anything! I drive a lot for my job and am grateful this didn't happen while I was traveling 70 mph on the highway. It was very scary and has shaken my confidence in this car. I had the car repaired on an emergency basis, but the mechanic told me while the other ball joint was safe enough for me to make the trip home (350 miles), I should definitely get it checked out as well, as it looked suspect for the long term. The car is at the mechanic now, and I was a nervous wreck driving it home earlier today.