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: 2002
I purchased my Tribute in March of 2002. It's great to drive and has been very reliable. It handles every kind of road condition and even stops straight on icy roads. Although, I would like to see some improvements in the front passenger's seat belt as it locks up too easily. Additionally, the interior quality could be better as the molding on the inside of the doors keeps coming loose. However, in my opinion, there is no such thing as a perfect car.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I traded in my Mercedes ML320 after 5 years. The Tribute is smaller but fun to drive and much easier on the wallet. The ES offers some nice amenities. I hope it proves to be more reliable than my ML 320.
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Vehicle year: 2005
I have to say, this is one of the best small SUVs on the US market that I didn't want to miss out on. I opted for the 4-cylinder engine to save on gas compared to the V6. So far, I'm getting around 22 MPG, which is impressive for the first 1500 miles. The car drives great and has enough power for driving around town. The only downside is that the engine can be quite noisy, which I'm not used to. I plan to check with my dealer to ensure that all bolts on the exhaust are tight. Other than that, it's a great car, and with $4,000 in rebates, it's currently the best buy in this market segment.
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Vehicle year: 2004
It's great to drive! We feel very safe, and so does everyone who drives with us. We just love it.
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Vehicle year: 2003
Found this little dream by chance and I have to say, next to my Harley Davidson, this is the best purchase I have ever made for transportation. You will never regret purchasing this little Hot Rod. I am 56 years young and have a lot of trucks, and this one handles like a Mazda RX8 in some ways. I love it and would buy it again.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Tribute?
Jacey Schroeder 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2005
I traded my Camry for this car and although I wish I had kept it for its gas mileage, I still enjoy driving it. I thought a 4 cylinder engine would be efficient, but I only get 23 miles per gallon on trips, even when I'm the only one in the car. However, I did add a power roof which I really like. The passenger door doesn't accept a key, so the only way to get in is through the driver's door if you don't have the remote. This can be a bit of a hassle, especially when I'm trying to keep my keychain from getting too bulky, especially if I'm carrying remotes for other cars too. There was a minor recall for the back hatch door lock, but other than that, I haven't had any real problems with the car. It can be a bit sluggish on the highway, especially on hills where it has to downshift to climb, but it still rides smoothly and has a sporty feel. Overall, I think it's just an okay car.
Joshua Stroman 2024-11-18
Vehicle year: 2006
Nice car! It's a great value and very comfortable. While there are a couple of items that could be improved, such as the poor quality of the clothing hanger (and the fact that there's only one), and the inconvenience of having to remove the antenna with a wrench to go through a car wash, overall it's perfect for road trips and gets good mileage.
Woodrow Yundt 2024-11-09
Vehicle year: 2008
I bought the Tribute i sport with a 5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, and 4-cylinder engine because I was looking for a vehicle with good cargo capacity and fuel economy. The dealer had to locate the vehicle with this combination since they had never had a Tribute with a manual transmission on their lot. Unfortunately, there is no photo available of the manual shift lever and console combination in the Mazda brochure. However, Mazda did an excellent job with the 5-speed package. The shift lever is well-finished and attractive, with a good relationship to the steering wheel. Shifting gears is easy thanks to the very light clutch pressure. I have driven 1709 miles so far, and my average MPG is an impressive 30.97.
John Kub 2024-11-08
Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that I'm having a bit of trouble with my new Mazda. Unfortunately, it stalled on me as I was exiting the freeway, and now it's in the repair shop. The mechanic hasn't been able to reproduce the problem yet, but I'm hopeful that they'll be able to figure it out soon. I did some research online and found some concerning stories, but I'm sure Mazda is doing their best to address any issues. Thanks for your help!
Franz Zieme 2024-11-03
Vehicle year: 2005
Despite the challenges I have faced with this vehicle, I remain confident in my decision to purchase it. While I have experienced issues with the gas pedal, door latches, headlights, and engine, I trust that these problems will be resolved through the appropriate channels. As a loyal Mazda customer who has owned six of their vehicles, I have always been impressed with their quality and reliability. I am confident that this situation will be no different and that my vehicle will be restored to its optimal condition.