2002 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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Common 2002 Mazda Tribute problems
The Mazda Tribute 2002 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. These issues include:
- Failure of EGR Differential Pressure Feedback Sensor (DPFE): Another common problem with the 2002 Mazda Tribute is the failure of the DPFE sensor, which monitors the function of the EGR valve by measuring flow changes in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. When the sensor fails, the check engine light will illuminate, and the car may experience pinging (knock), surging, lack of power, poor fuel economy, or rough idle.
- Stalling After Cold Start: Some owners of the 2002 Mazda Tribute have reported that their car stalls after a cold start. This issue can be caused by several problems, such as a faulty crankshaft position sensor or a weak fuel pump.
- Blower Motor: The blower motor is another common problem area for the 2002 Mazda Tribute. The blower motor may stop working or operate intermittently, causing the car's heater or air conditioning to malfunction.
- Loss of Power and Squealing Noise: Some owners of the 2002 Mazda Tribute have reported a loss of power and a squealing noise coming from the engine bay. The loss of power can be caused by any number of problems, and an electronic scan of the car would be the first move in diagnosing that problem. The squealing noise may be caused by the rubber drive-belts in the engine bay, which may emit a high-pitched squeal if they get moisture on them, typically from a leaking water pump or a leaking radiator located near the belts.
- Fuel System Issues: Some owners of the 2002 Mazda Tribute have reported fuel system issues, such as a loss of power under cornering when the fuel is being pushed to one side. This issue could be caused by a problem with the pick-up in the tank or the fuel filter inside the tank.
- Ignition System Issues: Some owners of the 2002 Mazda Tribute have reported ignition system issues, such as a noisy timing chain. However, this issue is not widespread and may only affect certain vehicles.
In general, the 2002 Mazda Tribute has several common problems that owners should be aware of. If you own a 2002 Mazda Tribute and are experiencing any of these issues, it is recommended that you take your car to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
What is the common problem of Mazda Tribute?
Problem: The most common fault we have found is the failure of ignition coils (COP- coil on plug). This coil failure may be due to either the age of unit or premature failure as a result of air leaks causing coils to overload and oil leaks causing contamination of spark plug tubes.
How reliable is a Mazda Tribute?
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?
Fantastic Car
You know it's a good car when it can have 180000 miles on it and survive a year plus of a new driver navigating mountain roads both too quickly and too slowly.
Does the Mazda Tribute have a Ford engine?
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.
2002 Mazda Tribute car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Tribute problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Mazda Tribute vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Mazda Tribute
The NHTSA has received 389 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Mazda Tribute. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Mazda Tribute vehicles.
2023-11-22
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-22
- 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.
2023-10-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
- 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)
2022-12-16
STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-29
- VIN: 4F2YU09182K
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: My vehicle took off and accelerated without me depressing the gas pedal and it was very scary and hard to get stopped I was doing almost 80 mph. It had a safety recall for the throttle cable for this but you show no open recalls yet Mazda does and told me if recalls we're taken care of they would show up on the car fax which they do not my vehicle is a 2002 but this doesn't mean it was ever fixed has several other issues also the front lower control arm which is also on a recall and does not show on the car fax the entire front end on the passenger side sounds like it's really loose and could break and my tire come loose as others have reported when filing same complaint. This has happened more than once to me. I call it now a death trap I need help to get this safe to drive thank you.
2022-03-01
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- VIN: 4F2CU08122K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the steering wheel felt as if it was detached from the steering column. Additionally, there was a grinding noise coming from the passenger’s side front wheel well. The contact did not notice any warning lights. The contact was able to drive the vehicle safely back to his residence. The vehicle was not taken to the local dealer. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V174000 (Structure) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.
2021-09-17
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4f2yu09192k
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owned a 2002 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that while driving at 30 mph, a pop noise was heard, the vehicle had unintended acceleration; the engine revved and sped up to 80 - 90 mph, inadvertently, and the brakes failed to engage after the contact had depressed with both feet on the brake pedal. The contact made a turn into a park and the vehicle slid, then crashed into a tree. There was smoke coming from under the hood and the contact turned off the vehicle before exiting and walking until she got assistance from a bystander, who called the police. A police report was filed. The contact did not receive medical attention at the scene but later went to the emergency room for injuries sustained with six broken ribs. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
2020-05-21
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
- VIN: 4F2YU09112K
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: DRIVING THE VEHICLE DOWN A CITY STREET THE STEERING BECAME EXTREMELY LOOSE. UPON INSPECTION WE FOUND THAT THE FRONT SUBFRAME HAD RUSTED/BROKEN AND THE LOWER CONTROL ARM HAD SEPARATED FROM IT. AFTER A SEARCH WE DISCOVERED THAT THIS ISSUE IS COVERED UNDER THE 7514D RECALL. A VIN SEARCH CONFIRMED THAT THIS WAS AN OPEN RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE. WE TOWED THE VEHICLE TO THE NEAREST MAZDA DEALER TO HAVE THE RECALL COMPLETED. AFTER ABOUT 1 WEEK, THE SERVICE ADVISOR CALLED AND TOLD ME THAT MAZDA WAS REFUSING TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. I CALLED MAZDA CUSTOMER SERVICE TO GET AN EXPLANATION AND WAS TOLD THAT THE RECALL ONLY INVOLVES INSTALLING A "REINFORCEMENT" BRACKET, NOT REPLACING THE SUBFRAME. I INFORMED THEM THAT I HAVE COPIES OF BOTH THE OWNER LETTER AND THE ENTIRE RECALL PROCEDURE WHICH BOTH CLEARLY STATE THAT IF THE LOWER CONTROL ARM HAS BECOME SEPARATED DUE TO CORROSION THE SUBFRAME MUST BE REPLACED AT NO COST TO THE OWNER. THEY TRIED TO TELL ME THAT "CORROSION" DOES NOT MEAN "RUST" AND THERE IS NOTHING MORE THEY COULD DO FOR ME. THE VEHICLE IS STILL AT THE DEALERSHIP, MAZDA OF WOOSTER IN WOOSTER, OHIO. *TR
2019-09-16
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-01
- VIN: 4F2YU08142K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND CONTINUED TO MOVE FORWARD. THE CONTACT HAD TO FORCEFULLY DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, NONE OF THE LOCKS FUNCTIONED AND THE BODY FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE REAR HATCH WINDOW DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 04V583000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL), 12V357000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL), AND 14V174000 (STRUCTURE). THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT CALLED PRESTON MAZDA (LOCATED AT 260 BOARDMAN POLAND RD, BOARDMAN, OH 44512, (844) 835-0773) AND WAS INFORMED TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO THEIR FACILITY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2019-09-16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4F2YU09112K
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF THE OWNER OF A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE ABRUPTLY STOPPED IN FRONT OF THE OWNER'S VEHICLE. THE OWNER WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE IN TIME AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITH FORCE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED CRUSHED RIBS AND A BROKEN RIGHT FOOT THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE OTHER DRIVER LEFT THE SCENE OF THE CRASH. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,270.
2019-08-10
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-01
- VIN: 4F2YU08152K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I BROUGHT THIS CAR FRONT THE DEALER AND DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT THE RECALL ON THE CONTROL ARM AND NO ONE TOLD ME IT IS NOW 17 YEARS OLD AND I ONLY HAD IT FOR A YEAR
2018-12-29
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-28
- VIN: 4F2YU08102K
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2018-11-28
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4F2YU081X2K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAD THE OIL CHANGED IN PAHRUMP, NEVADA AT ROUND 10 AM. AFTERWARDS, I DROVE THE VEHICLE AROUND TOWN FOR SEVERAL HOURS, LOADING IT UP WITH BELONGINGS BECAUSE I WAS MOVING 160 NORTH ON HWY 95. AFTER STOPPING IN BEATTY, NEVADA, MY SUV SPUTTERED. I TOOK THE SUV OUT OF OVERDRIVE INTO DRIVE TO SEE IF IT WOULD BACKFIRE TO GET THE DIRT OR WATER OUT OF THE FUEL LINE FROM JUST FILLING UP. ABOUT A MILE DOWN THE ROAD, I HEARD A BELT SQUEAL. THINKING MY TRANSMISSION MAYBE GOING OUT DUE TO THE FACT I HADN'T DRIVEN IN DRIVE FOR SOME TIME, I CONTINUED ON MY WAY PRAYING THE VEHICLE WOULD MAKE IT TO MY DESTINATION. IT WASN'T UNTIL I REACHED THE 88 MILE MARKER, DID THE SQUEAL HAPPEN AGAIN. THEN WHITE SMOKE FOLLOWED. I THOUGHT, WELL THERE GOES THE RADIATOR TOO. JUST PAST THE 92 MILE MARKER, THE ENGINE LOCKED UP. I STILL HAD WHITE SMOKE AND NO SHOULDER. I DECIDED I HAD TO GET THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AT 7 P.M. I WENT OVER INTO THE DITCH WITHOUT TURNING OVER WITH MY BELONGINGS. IMMEDIATELY, I NOTICED THE OIL AND OIL PAN LIGHTS ON. MY HEADLIGHTS WERE STILL ON. I CALLED A FRIEND WHO TOLD ME TO GET OUT IMMEDIATELY. I CALLED 911 AT 7:05 P.M. THEY TOLD ME TO RUN. WITHIN A MINUTE A SMALL FLAME CAME SHOOTING OUT OF THE VEHICLE WHICH CONTINUED TO BURN FOR OVER ONE HOUR UNTIL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT SHOWED UP TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH FOAM. I HAVE SPOKEN TO A COUPLE OF SEASONED MECHANICS. THEY SAID IT SOUNDED LIKE THE OIL FILTER WAS DEFECTIVE. ANOTHER SAID AFTER LOOKING AT WHAT WAS LEFT... ONLY THE SHELL, THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT UNDER THE HOOD. THE INSURANCE COMPANY, SAFECO HAS IT IN THEIR FORENSICS LAB TO DETERMINE FAULT. I GOOGLED FIRES IN MAZDA TRIBUTES 2002 AND RAN ACROSS A RECALL. I DID NOT RECEIVE A NOTICE AND HAVE CHECKED THE MAZDA WEBSITE USING MY VIN NUMBER. NOTHING ON MY VEHICLE EVER BEING RECALLED FOR THIS FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE PICTURES ON MY PHONE BUT LOST MY COMPUTER TO LOAD TO SITE.
2018-04-18
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-18
- VIN: 4F2YU08102K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WE TOOK OUR MAZDA IN FOR THE SUB-FRAME RECALL 11-30-2015 AND THE DEALERSHIP, MORRIES MAZDA INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN, SIGNED OFF THAT IT WAS FINE. NOW 29 MONTHS AND 10,000 MILES LATER THERE IS A DIME SIZED HOLE RUSTED THROUGH THE SUB-FRAME AND BOTH THE DEALERSHIP AND MAZDA USA ARE REFUSING TO PAY FOR ANY OF THE RECALL REPAIRS WHICH WILL RUN ABOUT $4,000. THE FRAME IS A HEAVY PIECE OF METAL AND THERE IS NO WAY A DIME SIZED HOLE SHOULD OCCUR IN THAT SHORT A PERIOD OF TIME. I BELIEVE DUE TO THE COST OF THE REPAIR MAZDA USA AND MORRIES REFUSED TO DO THE NECESSARY RECALL REPAIRS WHEN WE ORIGINALLY TOOK THE CAR IN ON 11-30-15 AND ARE NOW REFUSING AGAIN TO COVER THE COSTS (MAZDA USA TICKET # 1-1249669028). THIS WAS CLEARLY A DESIGN DEFECT AND IF THE SUB-FRAME FAILS WHILE DRIVING , PARTICULARLY AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IT CARRIES POTENTIAL LIFE THREATING INJURY TO THE OCCUPANTS OF THE VEHICLE AND OTHERS IN THE AREA.
2018-04-11
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-10
- VIN: 4F2YU091X2K
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE IS LEAKING BRAKE FLUID PER MAZDA RECALL MY VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED 01/02. AND IT SMELLS SMOKY! I DIDN'T GET A RECALL NOTICE BUT, MY TRIBUTE IS HAVING THE EXACT PROBLEM SITED ON U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT. QUOTE: MAZDA RECALLING 52,390 TRIBUTE SUVS FROM THE 2001 AND 2002 MODEL YEARS FOR A PROBLEM WITH THEIR BRAKES. ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, PART OF THE TRIBUTE'S BRAKE SYSTEM COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKS, IT'S POSSIBLE THAT THE FLUID CAN COME IN CONTACT WITH WIRES THAT CONTROL THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM. CORROSION MAY DEVELOP IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR LEADING MELTING, SMOKING OR POSSIBLE FIRE,' NHTSA REPORTS. NHTSA SAYS THAT OWNERS SHOULD PARK THEIR MAZDA TRIBUTE OUTSIDE UNTIL THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN IN TO THE DEALERSHIP TO BE FIXED. THIS IS UNUSUAL COMPARED WITH MOST VEHICLE SAFETY RECALLS, BUT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF A FIRE OCCURRING, OWNERS SHOULD HEED THIS WARNING. AFFECTED MAZDA TRIBUTE SUVS WERE BUILT FROM APRIL 20, 2000 THROUGH JULY 19, 2002. YOU CAN CHECK TO SEE WHEN YOUR 2001 OR 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE WAS BUILT BY CHECKING THE STICKER ON THE INSIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR JAMB.
2018-01-10
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-09
- VIN: 4F2YU08142K
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL, MY CAR IS HAVING ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS (ABS), I ALSO HAVE A LOT SO ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 DURATEC ENGINES, DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL
2017-12-09
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-02
- VIN: 4F2YU08182K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: PCM/ECM
2017-08-11
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-06
- VIN: 4F2CU09162K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE UNDERCARRIAGE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE FRACTURED DUE TO SEVERE RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT DID NOT TAKE THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 181,000.
2017-04-17
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-28
- VIN: 4F2CU08112K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE HEARD NEAR THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS INDICATED THAT THEY PERFORMED A MANUFACTURER RECALL FOR THE SUB-FRAME, UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL ARMS BUT THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF THE DEALER ACTUALLY COMPLIED AND REPLACED THE PARTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR FURTHER INSPECTION AND DIAGNOSIS. THE MANUFACTURER RECALL FAILED TO PROVIDE A SOLUTION BECAUSE THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO HEAR THE ABNORMAL NOISE IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 06/13/17*LJ
2016-07-12
STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
- VIN: 4F2CZ94173K
- Components: STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL BECAME DISENGAGED FROM THE VEHICLE AND JAMMED INTO THE WHEEL WELL. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO BE IMMOBILE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THEN TRANSPORTED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT COVER THE REPAIR DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE CORROSION. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V174000 (STRUCTURE) PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, BUT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000....UPDATED 09/12/16 *BF *TR
2016-05-25
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-24
- VIN: 4F2YU081X2K
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I WENT TO BUCKLE MY SON'S CARSEAT IN AND THE BUCKLE CAME OUT OF THE SEAT. AND I MOVED HIM TO A DIFFERENT BUCKLE AND THAT ONE CAME OUT TO AND THEN THE NEXT SEAT BUCKLE CAME OUT AS WELL.
2016-04-24
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-23
- VIN: 4F2CU08152K
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF RUBBER BRAKE HOSE ON FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL. TOTAL LOSS OF ABS BRAKING SYSTEM DURING ATTEMPTED STOP WITH VEHICLE IN MOTION AND SLOWING AT AN INTERSECTION. MADE LOUD POP / GUNSHOT SOUND, SPEWING BRAKE FLUID. HAD TO ENGAGE EMERGENCY AND PARKING BRAKE TO PREVENT COLLISION.
2016-01-07
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-07
- VIN: 4F2YU081X2K
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT HAS BEEN FLASHING ON AND OFF FOR A WHILE NOW. I REMOVED THE ITEMS UNDER THE SEAT AND THE LIGHTS WENT OFF AND WORKED FOR ALMOST A MONTH. ALL OF A SUDDEN THE LIGHTS ARE NOW FLASHING AGAIN, EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE NO ITEMS BELOW MY SEATS. I WAS ABLE TO SEARCH ONLINE AND SEE THAT THERE HAVE BEEN MANY ISSUES WITH THE SEATBELT PRETENSIONERS AND/OR THE CONNECTIONS BELOW THE SEAT THAT NEED TO BE WIGGLED OR DISCONNECTED AND THEN RE-PLUGGED IN TO MAKE THE LIGHT GO OUT. IT HAS HAPPENED IN ALL SITUATIONS INCLUDING STATIONARY, IN MOTION, ON THE HIGHWAY, OR IN THE CITY.
2015-10-16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4F2CU08102K
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD BEEN DRIVING MY MAZDA FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES ON A 75 DEGREE DAY IN SOUTH TEXAS WHEN TURNING ONTO A FLAT, UNOBSTRUCTED, SMOOTH PAVED ROAD THROUGH A KOA PARK. AFTER TURNING, I WAS ONLY DRIVING THE 5 MILE AN HOUR SPEED LIMIT THROUGH THIS PARK, WHEN SUDDENLY THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG EXPLODED IN MY FACE WITHOUT ANY WARNING WHATSOEVER . THERE WAS NOTHING THAT COULD HAVE EVEN SLIGHTLY INDICATED A COLLISION -- NOT A SPEED BUMP, NOT A BIRD OR ANIMAL, OR ANYTHING. IT WAS JUST A SMOOTH, SLOW DRIVE AT 5 MILES AN HOUR ON A SUNNY DAY. THERE WAS 60% HUMIDITY FROM PRIOR DAYS RAIN. I HAD MY ARM UP TO MY FACE ALREADY WHEN IT HAPPENED, WHICH TOOK THE BRUNT OF THE HIT TO MY WRIST AND FOREARM. WITHIN LESS THAN 5 SECONDS THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG EXPLODED ALSO. BOTH RANG OUT A SHOT LIKE A PISTOL IN THE CLOSED WINDOW CAR. SMOKE AND BURNING SMELL STARTED FILLING THE CAR, AND I WAS ABLE TO STOP SINCE ONLY GOING 5 MILES AN HOUR, AND GET MYSELF OUT OF THE CAR QUICKLY. MY ARM SUSTAINED HUGE WELTS FROM THE IMPACT AND WRIST FELT EXTREMELY HURT AND BRUISED AND BECAME VERY STIFF AND HARD TO BEND. THIS WAS ALL WITNESSED BY AN RV CAMPER AT THE KOA PARK WHO WAS SITTING 15 FEET AWAY AND WAS STARTLED BY THE PISTOL FIRE SOUND OF THE EXPLODING BAGS. HE CAME OVER TO HELP, WHILE I LET THE SMOKE AIR OUT OF THE CAR. THE DRIVER'S SIDE EXPLOSION DESTROYED THE CENTER OF THE STEERING WHEEL, AND A LARGE CHUNK OF 3"X5" PLASTIC HAD BEEN TORN LOSE AND PROPELLED DURING THE EXPLOSION. I'M NOT SURE IF THAT IS WHAT PUT THE WELTS ON MY ARM OR THE BAG ITSELF IT HAPPENED SO SUDDENLY. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK MY CAR TO MY MECHANIC 3 MILES AWAY, DAN'S AUTO SERVICE OF PORT ISABEL, TEXAS, TO HAVE HIM INSPECT WHAT HAPPENED. HE INDICATED HE COULD SEE NO INDICATION THAT THE COLLISION SENSORS HAD BEEN TOUCHED TO SET THEM OFF, AND HAD NO IDEA WHY THE BOTH BAGS WOULD TRIGGER LIKE THAT.
2015-09-16
STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-08
- VIN: 4F2YU09112K
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HARD TO TURN IN SOUNDS LIKE MY LOWER CONTROL ARM IS ABOUT TO COME OFF.
2015-09-14
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-11
- VIN: 4F2CU08132K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE TURNED INWARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE DRIVER OBSERVED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V174000 (STRUCTURE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 131,000.
2015-05-30
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-29
- VIN: 4F2YU06B82K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45 RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC THE SHIFTER CABLE BROKE
2002 Mazda Tribute recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 2002 Mazda Tribute.
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.
2014-04-04
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Tribute vehicles manufactured May 22, 2000, through December 19, 2003, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm.
- Consequence: A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace, free of charge. The recall began on May 29, 2014. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 7514D.
2012-07-27
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: Mazda is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2006, and 2008, Tribute vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
- Consequence: A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. Remedy parts are now available. The safety recall began on September 13, 2012. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-5500, option #6.
2012-01-20
- Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 2000, THROUGH JULY 19, 2002. THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP CAN LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF BRAKE FLUID LEAKS, IT COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
- Consequence: CORROSION MAY DEVELOP IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR LEADING MELTING, SMOKING OR POSSIBLE FIRE.
- Remedy: MAZDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VEHICLE'S BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP AND MODIFY THE ABS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FREE OF CHARGE. UNTIL THE REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED, VEHICLE OWNERS SHOULD PARK THEIR VEHICLES OUTSIDE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 22, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500, OPTION 6.
2007-04-10
- Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
- Consequence: AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MIGHT CAUSE AN ABS MALFUNCTION THAT WOULD ILLUMINATE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT, AND IN SOME CASES, THE MODULE MAY OVERHEAT RESULTING IN BURNING ODOR, SMOKE, AND/OR FIRE. THIS CONDITION COULD OCCUR EITHER WHEN THE VEHICLE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION OR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE ABS MODULE FOR MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS, AND REPAIR OR REPLACE THE HARNESS CONNECTOR AS APPROPRIATE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE CONNECTOR ON THE ABS MODULE AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE CORRODED OR DAMAGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 9, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
2007-03-29
- Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
2004-12-23
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
- Summary: CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
- Consequence: IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
2004-12-10
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE MAY PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.
- Consequence: AN UNEXPECTED INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED MAY INCREASE STOPPING DISTANCE AND MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 28, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500, OPTION #4.
2004-04-09
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 DURATEC ENGINES , DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) WITH THE APPROPRIATE CALIBRATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 3, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
Negative 2002 Mazda Tribute car reviews
Positive 2002 Mazda Tribute car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your Tribute LX! It's amazing that you were able to take it on a road trip all the way from CA to UT without any issues. Although there was a minor misfire due to the rainy weather, it's great to hear that it resolved itself quickly. It sounds like the Tribute LX has plenty of room for your family and all of your belongings, which is fantastic. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with Mazzy, I'm sure it will be helpful for anyone considering this car.
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Purchased new as my wife's commuter and weekend driver. Living in Maine with grandchildren in Vermont, we quickly learned that it is a fantastic car in the snow. Although we did experience some issues with the front suspension at 45,000 miles and had to replace the front axles due to rusted tone rings (part of the ABS system) at 55,000 miles, overall it has been a reliable car. The torque converter does stutter occasionally when downshifting, but otherwise, the engine and drivetrain work seamlessly. After 8 years, it still drives like new!
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It's great to hear that you've had your Mazda Tribute Lx V6 2002 for 14 years and that you take such good care of it! You do your own maintenance and change your motor oil every 5000 miles using a high capacity oil and gas filter, as well as synthetic or high mileage 5w-20. You also replace your belts, spark plugs, and manifold gaskets. It's clear that you have a lot of knowledge about your car and are dedicated to keeping it in top condition. It's true that all cars can have issues, but it's great that you're proactive in addressing them. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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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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We had some initial issues with the transmission and exhaust manifolds, but thankfully they were covered by the warranty. Since then, we haven't had any powertrain problems. The sagging door seals can be a bit annoying, but overall, the car has a lot of great features for the price and has taken us on many exciting adventures!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Mazda Tribute problems:
2002 Mazda Tribute | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/mazda/tribute/2002
Yes it is generally reliable. It hasn't seen very many drastic issues so far. · The 2002 Mazda Tribute is reliable and does not show any problems until a certain ...
2002 Mazda Tribute Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-mazda-tribute/problems
Problem with your 2002 Mazda Tribute? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Mazda Tribute.
Q&A: Mazda Tribute LX V6 2002 - Common Issues, Catalytic ...
https://www.justanswer.com/mazda/7mqih-mazda-tribute-lx-2002-mazda-tribute-lx-v6-4wd-auto.html
Mar 14, 2013 ... The converters can not be unclogged, they have absorbed to much raw fuel and the catalyst have swelled and restricted air movement. You will ...
2002 Mazda Tribute Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/tribute/2002/reliability/
No Detailed Data Available. Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire that is sent to subscribers. In the questionnaire, we ask ...
2002 Mazda Tribute Problems - Misfires | Mazda World Forum
https://www.mazdaworld.org/threads/2002-mazda-tribute-problems-misfires.94687/
Oct 23, 2012 ... ... problems, it was the coil#4 that was causing all the DPFE sensor and catalytic problems. Runs great now! He says its a common problem in this ...
Other years of Mazda Tribute
Are you having problems with your 2002 Mazda Tribute?
Hollis Thompson 2025-01-29
After driving a car, it took me some time to get used to this SUV. At first, it felt tippy and had too many column levers. I kept turning the wiper blades on when trying to put it in gear. However, I agree with some others that it needs a lighted key ignition, as it is hard to locate in the dark even after 3 years. In the first year, I had the engine light come on and a couple of recalls, but the dealer fixed all of them in a timely manner. The seats were and still are hard as a rock, but they are holding up well. On the positive side, I love the front-wheel drive, and I rarely need the 4WD. The SUV has good visual all around, but the tire and wind noise on the inside is loud. I had the 6 disk CD player replaced once, and it has a nice sound. If the SUV were made a little wider and the above items were fixed, it would be the ultimate small SUV. Overall, it is a good vehicle!
Tyree Swaniawski 2025-01-02
Although there have been some necessary repairs in the past three years, such as replacing the dash odometer light, chrome hood piece, IAC Valve, Master brake cylinder, gearshift cable, the driver's side door handle, a fog light, and having work done on a misfiring cylinder, the car performs very well when it is in good condition. Despite some minor issues such as creaking during left turns (which I have been told is due to bad sway bar links) and howling in the cold, the car is still a great choice. Although the cloth on the interior doors is peeling and one of the back seats won't go down, I am confident that with proper maintenance, this car will continue to perform well. I am still very fond of the Tribute and believe it is a better choice than the Escape.
John Kub 2024-11-08
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!
Jordan Hayes 2024-09-27
I purchased my Tribute in February 2002 and had to take it in 5 weeks/1800 miles later. They found a leak in a seal in the transmission and corrected it. However, my car still bucks, spits, and misses to this very day. I have taken it back three times and the dealership has told me they all run this way and nothing is wrong. I am meeting with a factory rep next week and if that doesn't resolve the issue, I will be pursuing the lemon law. While I am disappointed with my experience, I hope that the factory rep can help me find a solution. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Kellen Gleichner 2024-09-11
I'm so sorry to hear about your experience with your 2002 Tribute. It must have been a scary situation when it caught on fire. Thankfully, everyone got out okay, including your pregnant daughter and young grandson. It's fortunate that your granddaughter's mother got off work early that day. I understand that this situation has left you without transportation and with a lot of headaches. It's frustrating to find out that the cause was a manufacturing defect. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help.