2001 Mazda Tribute

The 2001 Mazda Tribute marked Mazda’s entry into the compact SUV market. It was jointly developed with Ford, sharing the same platform and many components with the Ford Escape. The 2001 Tribute came with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing around 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.0L Duratec V6 engine generating approximately 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Tribute’s sporty handling and practical cargo space, while some common dislikes included the fuel economy of the V6 engine and some reliability concerns that emerged as the vehicles aged.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Engine

• No Issues Found

3.0L Duratec V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally from the front of the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine light illuminated (typically P0420 code), reduced engine performance, rattling noise from underneath the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission not engaging properly, Check Engine Light illuminated (often with transmission-related codes).
  • Solution: The specific repair varies greatly depending on the cause, and can include anything from replacing the solenoid pack, valve body, or even the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (solenoid/valve body) - $2500+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear end of the vehicle sitting noticeably lower than the front, especially when loaded. This can also lead to a rougher ride and decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear springs and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, slow or erratic window movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly, remote keyless entry not working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells on the rear quarter panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Broken Interior Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim pieces becoming loose, rattling, or breaking.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the damaged trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the piece and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Mazda Tribute, while generally a reliable vehicle for its time, does suffer from some common issues as it ages. The V6 engine is prone to intake manifold gasket leaks and catalytic converter failure. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, can be costly. Suspension components are also susceptible to wear and tear. Electrical issues like power window and door lock failures are also common. Rust is a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Interior issues like cracked dashboards also contribute to the ownership experience. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase.