Mazda Tribute problems
The Mazda Tribute (Japanese: マツダ・トリビュート, Matsuda Toribyūto) (Code J14) is a compact SUV made by Japanese automaker Mazda from 2000 to 2011. It was jointly developed with Ford Motor Company and based on the front-wheel drive Mazda 626 platform, which was in turn the basis for the similar Ford Escape on the CD2 platform. The Tribute was priced below the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner in Ford's CD2 SUV lineup.
The Tribute and Escape debuted in 2000, offering front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of a transversely mounted 2.0 L Ford Zetec 4-cylinder engine or 3.0 L Ford Duratec V6. The Ford Escape was also sold as the Ford Maverick in Europe with a Ford 2.0 L I4 Zeta engine with manual transmission, or 3.0 L Duratec coupled to automatic transmission.
One main difference between the Tribute and the Ford Escape/Maverick is that the Tribute's suspension is tuned for a firmer ride than the Escape/Maverick, in order to correspond with Mazda's sporty image. As Mazda had offered "spiced up" models in other segments such as the Mazda3 and CX-7, the utilitarian Tribute was replaced by the more aggressively styled and in-house-designed Mazda CX-5 in North America.
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Mazda Tribute model years
Common Mazda Tribute problems
Based on complaints from Mazda Tribute owners, common problems with the Mazda Tribute cars include:
- Engine Problems: The engine in Mazda Tribute cars had reliability concerns, with instances of the engine dying while driving or causing acceleration issues that led to accidents. For example, the 2006 model had speed control issues resulting in crashes. Owners reported acceleration problems and stalling, especially in older vehicles with around 80,000 miles.
- Rust Issues: The 2005 Mazda Tribute had a significant problem with struts rusting prematurely, requiring costly repairs. Owners had to spend an average of $1,000 to address this issue.
- Power Steering and Electrical Issues: Problems with power steering, rust in areas above the rear wheels, and electrical issues were also common in Mazda Tribute cars. These problems could be expensive to repair and required careful inspection before purchasing a used vehicle.
- Fuel Efficiency and Reliability Concerns: The Mazda Tribute was noted for its fuel inefficiency compared to rivals in the compact SUV segment. Additionally, reliability concerns, especially related to transmission problems, power steering issues, and rust in regions with salt usage, were highlighted as potential drawbacks for owners.
- Interior and Cabin Noise: Some owners reported that the Tribute had a noisier cabin compared to competitors, impacting comfort during long drives. The interior of the Tribute, being from the late 2000s, was also considered outdated by some users.
These common problems reported by Mazda Tribute owners highlight various issues ranging from transmission and engine failures to rust and power steering concerns. Addressing these problems promptly and considering them when purchasing a used Mazda Tribute can help owners make informed decisions and avoid unexpected repair costs.
Is the Mazda Tribute reliable?
The average annual repair cost is $523 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Tribute is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
How many miles will a Mazda Tribute last?
I'd say, 150000 - 180000 miles on the odometer, it ran very well, and still does. My grandfather drove it off the lot new in 2003 and used it for 17 - 19 years commuting back and forth to work, and it has about 205500 miles on it now, and it's running fantastically.
What are common problems with a 2006 Mazda Tribute?
Top 2006 Mazda Tribute Problems
- Check Engine Light On Due to Engine Misfire. 139 people have reported this. ...
- Failure of EGR Differential Pressure Sensor. 119 people have reported this. ...
- Stalling After Cold Start. 39 people have reported this.
Which Mazda Tribute to avoid?
Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (2001–2006).
- 2nd Generation Tribute. Years 2008–2011 Reliability 25th out of 36 PainRank™ 4.97 Complaints 51.
- 1st Generation Tribute. Years 2001–2006 Reliability 28th out of 36 PainRank™ 7.95 Complaints 156.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Tribute years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Tribute cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Tribute model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Tribute model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Tribute years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Tribute car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Tribute , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Tribute vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tribute model years
A total of 110 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tribute model years
There were a total of 55 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tribute model years
There were a total of 89 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tribute model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2154 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Tribute . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Tribute vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Tribute 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
- VIN: 4F2YZ04174K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The driver air bag light on the instrument panel has been illuminated since 2004, repair had been attempted several times but has failed. A bulletin has been sent by the manufacture to the dealership regarding steering wheel airbag light being illuminated giving a false warning, due to defective electrical wiring that cannot be repaired.
Mazda Tribute 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-24
- VIN: 4F2YU061X1K
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Corroded Subframe led to almost complete separation of drivers side control arm, 72k original miles, took my problem to Bergery Mazda where no one cared. If the part was already replaced in 2014 how is it possibly broken already.
Mazda Tribute 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-21
- VIN: 4F2YZ04135K
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Passenger rear shock mount toatly rusted through. A big hole!
Mazda Tribute 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-22
- VIN: 4F2CZ02759K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Lost of power steering hard to steer the steering wheel
Mazda Tribute 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-22
- VIN: 4F2YU09122K
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission was shifting erratically and made an abnormal rumbling sound. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated to respond and was jerking upon depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact who is an independent mechanic had replaced the transmission speed sensor, the transmission shift position sensor, the vehicle speed sensor, the shift solenoid block, the transmission fluid, the transmission clutch solenoid, and the wheel speed sensor; however, the failure persisted. The contact used an OBD scanner and retrieved DTC codes indicating that the ABS wiring was overheating. The contact later became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V016000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair; however, the dealer bypassed the ABS module. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH to the residence after the repair, the failure recurred. The contact stated that the recall repair did not involve bypassing the ABS module. The dealer was contacted, but no further assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and several cases were opened; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
Mazda Tribute 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-13
- VIN: 4F2YU09122K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My car has had a abs engine code for a year that I have spent a lot of money trying to get it off because, I can’t renew my tag because it failed emissions vehicle safety test . So I was notified by my insurance company that my vehicle was under recall. I read it and called Mazda and it was confirmed and I went to the shop and I waited 6 hours for the installation of a new abs module and wire harness. Hennesy Mazda of morrow Georgia bypassed the abs system but replaced my voltage regulator with out my consent. The recall recommended repair is to replace the abs module and harness. The dealership refused to comply and neither offered a tow back to Newnan Georgia where I live. So they placed me and others at risk by failing to comply. I have been ignored even after speaking with 3 customer service representatives and I was given a call [XXX] 10/11/23. I was told that I had to get it to Marietta Jim Ellis Mazda and that they would contact me but know one has called. I need your help to resolve this serious violation of the recall and the altering of my vehicles abs by bypassing it . I have lost a total of $2,367 in parts lost wages and anguish due to their lack of compliance of the recall of my 2002 Mazda tribute es abs module and harness. The abs module and wiring to ECM gets the voltage regulator hot and causes abs engine light to illuminate and malfunction. This my work vehicle I need it to make a living. The abs module and harness wasn’t changed but was bypassed . The recall clearly states the issue and recommended repairs by vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Tribute 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-18
- VIN: 4F2CZ02Z48K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving at low speeds and making a turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the roadway. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as needed; however, the failure recurred while making a turn. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving and making a turn and had become a persistent failure after turning off and restarting the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that he would be charged a fee for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V282000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
Mazda Tribute 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-12
- VIN: 4F2CZ92Z78K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The steering is very tight, and sometimes the wheel gets stripped out of your hands, vehicle has been brought to the dealer for a diagnosis
Mazda Tribute 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-04
- VIN: 4F2CZ041X3K
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My ABS keeps locking up and Ive almost wrecked multiple times. I changed brakes and rotors and still the problem is on-going. Its dangerous and Ive read others saying the same thing online.
Mazda Tribute 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-25
- VIN: 4F2CZ96115K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Rear passenger shock mount rusted out completely
Mazda Tribute 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-07
- VIN: 4F2YZ04166K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2006 MAZADA TRIBUTE- Consumer sent a request to Mazda North America to request estimate for cost of repair for replacement of the sensor and switches on the doors and service to the "door ajar" alarm system. Mazda customer care stated they wouldn't be able to provide assistance in the issue. The vehicle is out of warranty and there is no open recalls or special service programs. Consumer resubmitted request to Mazda. Consumer states: "This is the responsibility of the manufacturer! This feature·, (Door Ajar) notification is a major preventative safety item that should have an interrupt feature within. It does not! The defect of malfunction, ringing of the chime, is a conscience detraction element that cannot be tolerated continuously!" The consumer stated the cost of repairs will cost $4590 and feels this is the responsibility of the manufacturer.
Mazda Tribute 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-08
- VIN: 4F2YZ94174K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stopped and noticed there was rust on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear shock had detached due to rust. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 203,350.
Mazda Tribute 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-24
- VIN: 4F2CZ02Z28K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact's son owns a 2008 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while her son was driving and making a turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact's son was able to veer to the side of the road by using physical force to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V282000 (Steering), and any additional repair was at the owner's expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Mazda Tribute 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-23
- VIN: 4F2CZ96195K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The rear wheel well was completely rusted out while the other side is fine. The shock broke loose causing the vehicle to drop down. I have a 17 year old that is not an experienced driver and this could have resulted in her getting seriously hurt. From what I read they recalled the vehicle to to 2004 and I don’t understand why they did not recall this one. They should have and this is a serious safety issue. Does someone have to die before they see that this needs to be fixed?
Mazda Tribute 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-02
- VIN: 4F2YZ04174K
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 212,900.
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Tribute
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 60 recalls for different components of the Mazda Tribute.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Tribute 2010
- Report Received Date: 2016-10-28
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Tribute vehicles manufactured March 3, 2009, to May 26, 2011. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices informing owners of the safety recall were mailed on December 23, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts are in stock. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0416J.
- Model: Mazda Tribute 2011
- Report Received Date: 2016-10-28
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Tribute vehicles manufactured March 3, 2009, to May 26, 2011. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices informing owners of the safety recall were mailed on December 23, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts are in stock. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0416J.
- Model: Mazda Tribute 2008
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2008 Tribute vehicles manufactured February 9, 2007 to April 22, 2008. The affected vehicles have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
- Consequence: If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission and if necessary tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8815J.
- Model: Mazda Tribute 2008
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-03
- Manufacturer: Timken Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
- Summary: The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
- Consequence: Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
- Model: Mazda Tribute 2006
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-03
- Manufacturer: Timken Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
- Summary: The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
- Consequence: Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
Latest negative Mazda Tribute car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Tribute car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2011
I have a 2011 Mazda Tribute that I've owned for 4 years now. This car is incredibly durable and reliable. It even has a feature that will shut it down if it needs fluid before it gets damaged. Despite my lack of car maintenance skills, this car takes care of itself. I was once in a head-on collision and the other car was completely smashed, but my Mazda only had a broken light. It handles well in the snow and can power through any weather condition. I am amazed at how well it has held up through everything I've put it through. I would definitely buy another Tribute in a heartbeat. This car is perfect for those who need a tough and reliable vehicle. Thank you, Mazda!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I'm so glad to hear that you love your Tribute! It sounds like you did your research and made a great choice. The Tribute offers a slightly lower price (with rebates) and a 4/50K warranty vs. 3/36K, which is fantastic. I'm happy to hear that you find it fun to drive and that it comes with all imaginable amenities included in package 3. The only things missing are steering-wheel radio controls and a message center (mileage, trip running time, etc.). Some owners have mentioned concerns about gas mileage, but I think it's important to remember that it's an AWD V6 SUV, not a compact car with a tinny 4-cylinder. Your initial 900 miles with a 50-50 split of highway & city miles averaging 19.3 is impressive. Heck, my underpowered '94 Subaru only got 18/26. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I bought my Tribute brand new and chose it over the competitors because of its great price and value. I owned it for 4 years and never had any problems with it. Although I would have loved to keep it for many more years, my family needed more room after finding out we were having our 3rd child, so we traded it for a minivan. The Tribute gets pretty good gas mileage for an SUV, around 21mpg, and has a nice ride, although it can be a little noisy at higher speeds. It's a great family SUV with good trunk space, and overall, it's a fantastic value compared to other small SUVs on the market.
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Vehicle year: 2006
You've had the car for 3 years now. Although it may seem underpowered with the smaller engine, the gas mileage is very good. The manual transmission really makes a difference. It's comfortable in town and on trips and handles very well. So far, it has aged well both inside and out despite dogs and kids.
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Vehicle year: 2008
The steering wheel was recalled twice, and unfortunately, the issue persisted even after the warranty repair. As a result, I need to trade in the car. Despite this setback, the car has served me well for my needs. There is room for improvement in its snow handling capabilities.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Tribute?
Carmelo Simonis 2025-05-19
Vehicle year: 2010
I had a 2001 Tribute with a V6 that was a gem. The new 2009 model has all the latest features and is a joy to drive. On a recent 200 mile trip, it performed very well and achieved an impressive 25 mpg. The only issue I have encountered so far is with the black plastic trim used on the center console, and the placement of the center storage compartment. Unfortunately, the compartment is quite difficult to reach as it is positioned too far back from the driver. Despite this, I have only driven 1,950 miles in the vehicle.
Devyn Kunze 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2002
Despite being under warranty, this vehicle has had numerous issues that required significant repairs, including the engine, coolant reservoir, headlights, tie rods, control arms, rear wiper motor, windshield, rear hatch window, rear hatch door, sunroof, and transmission. The brake rotors also wear out quickly. As a result, I have concerns about the reliability of the airbags. However, I am confident that the manufacturer will stand behind their product and address any future issues.
Moises Hahn 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2003
The car has had two transmission replacements, with the second one failing after only 14,000 miles. The dealership's dismissive attitude is concerning, as it raises questions about the reliability of the vehicle. Despite my efforts to resolve the issue, I have not received satisfactory customer service from either the dealership or Mazda. I am now considering contacting the Attorney General's office for further assistance.
Ismael Hirthe 2025-05-12
Vehicle year: 2001
This car has had multiple issues within a year, including failed powertrain resulting in a stall while driving, loud wind noise from the passenger back door, and various cosmetic issues. It is recommended to invest in a more reliable vehicle.
Rosario Zieme 2025-05-10
Vehicle year: 2002
In my opinion, the Mazda Tribute has a lot of potential, but unfortunately falls short due to its constant need for repairs as it is a Ford vehicle. However, there are many great features to this car. It is very comfortable with supportive seats and a good driving position. The radio is fantastic and the placement of controls is perfect. There are also plenty of storage solutions in the front row, including a large glove box, extra large center console, and ample storage in the doors. The back seats are roomy and the cargo area is very spacious, making it easy to transport large items. The car is also very stylish with nice lines and has a reliable engine. It is also very nimble and fun to drive, giving it a sporty feel. On the downside, the transmissions in these vehicles are known to be problematic. They hard shift constantly and have a lot of dead-no power zones. Most of the time, these transmissions give out within 100k miles and can cost around 3-4k to replace or rebuild including labor. However, it's important to note that the CD4E 4-speed transmission was originally designed for small front-wheel-drive cars with 4 cylinders, such as the Mazda 626, Ford Probe, and Ford Mondeo. Unfortunately, Ford decided to use these transmissions in a heavy trio of cars with 4-wheel drive and 6 cylinders, including the Mazda Tribute, Ford Escape, and Mercury Mariner. Overall, the Mazda Tribute has many great features and is a comfortable and stylish car to drive.Next, it is important to note that the Mazda Tribute may experience some issues with premature wear and tear on its spark plugs, which can lead to catalytic converter failure. If you see the check engine light start flashing, it is recommended that you pull over immediately and call for assistance to avoid further damage. Additionally, this car may experience some other maintenance issues such as weak alternators, failing A/C compressors, broken fog lights, hood trim falling off, sunroof rails snapping, and more. Despite these issues, the Mazda Tribute is a beautiful and comfortable car that is fun to drive. However, it is important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure its longevity.These cars are lovable despite their problems. I loved mine a lot, and it had lots of personality. However, after the transmission gave out for a third time in its 205k mile life, I decided it was time for it to go. If you have your heart set on one of these, know that it isn't as bad as some other Ford products, but it definitely won't be the most reliable vehicle. Expect to have your car in the shop often (unless you are mechanically inclined), and be prepared to be on the side of the road sometimes waiting for someone to rescue you. Lastly, expect to spend money frequently on the car.