2001 Mazda Tribute

Introduction:

The 2001 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that was available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 3.0-liter V6 engine. The 2.0-liter engine produced 130 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0-liter V6 produced 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Tribute was praised for its affordability, practicality, and off-road capabilities, but some owners have reported issues with the vehicle.

Engine

2.0-liter 4-cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks and overheating. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Timing chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include engine noise and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated cost to fix: $800 - $1,200.

3.0-liter V6

• VVT solenoid failure: Symptoms include engine misfires and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the VVT solenoid. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500.
• Intake valve carbon buildup: Symptoms include reduced engine performance and fuel economy. The solution is to clean the intake valves. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears and loss of power. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500.
• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering and vibration during acceleration. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $800 - $1,200.
• TCM failure: Symptoms include erratic shifting and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the transmission control module (TCM). Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Suspension

• Strut failure: Symptoms include excessive noise and vibration, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the struts. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $800 per axle.
• Control arm bushing failure: Symptoms include excessive noise and vibration, and poor handling. The solution is to replace the control arm bushings. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400 per side.
• Sway bar link failure: Symptoms include excessive noise and vibration, and poor handling. The solution is to replace the sway bar links. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200 per side.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include a dead battery, dim headlights, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $800.
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle and a grinding noise. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500.
• Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after the vehicle has been parked for a period of time. The solution is to diagnose and repair the source of the drain. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the cause of the drain.

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include bubbling paint and body panels. The solution is to remove the rust and apply a rust-resistant coating. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.

Interior

• Sunroof leaks: Symptoms include water accumulating inside the vehicle. The solution is to replace the sunroof seals or adjust the alignment of the sunroof. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500.
• HVAC blower motor failure: Symptoms include a lack of airflow from the vents. The solution is to replace the HVAC blower motor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
• Cruise control failure: Symptoms include the cruise control not working or not maintaining speed. The solution is to repair or replace the cruise control components. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $600.

Summary:

Overall, the 2001 Mazda Tribute has a moderate number of reported issues. The engine and transmission are the most common sources of trouble, with intake manifold gasket failures and transmission slipping being the most significant problems. Suspension issues, electrical problems, and exterior and interior issues are less common but can still be costly to repair. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the specific problem, but some repairs can be quite expensive.