As mentionned in a topic a few lines below:
Unfortunately, also you may get lucky and they process your application, it is more likely that they just don't process it and tell you to wait until you are within the 9 months. It is not the recommended time, it is the criteria for them to process the application:
"You should
only apply for a PR card if:
- your card has expired or will expire in less than 9 months
Otherwise, we may not process your application."
Just an FYI, if you want to renew early to have a valid PR card for 5 years because you are concerned of your residency obligation, the card has no impact on that. The dates on the card are not the validity of your PR status.