2002 Mazda Tribute

The 2002 Mazda Tribute was a compact SUV known for its affordability and relatively sporty handling compared to its competitors. It was essentially a rebadged Ford Escape, sharing many components. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing around 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.0L V6 engine that put out approximately 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0L was available with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the 3.0L was only offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciated its car-like driving experience, comfortable ride, and practical cargo space. Common complaints included underwhelming fuel economy, especially with the V6 engine, and some reliability issues that are typical of vehicles from this era.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light illuminates, decreased engine performance, rattling sound from underneath the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light illuminates, coolant loss, overheating, rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Inline-4

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (3.0L V6)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, hard or delayed shifts, difficulty shifting into gear.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change can help. However, more severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush) or $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (2.0L Inline-4)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Broken or Sagging Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sags on one side, uneven tire wear, clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the damaged coil spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, clunking noises when turning, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per joint/end
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operate slowly, intermittently, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery light illuminates, stalling, difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels, followed by rust prevention measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel, depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) or $500 - $1500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mazda Tribute, while a decent SUV for its time, is now an older vehicle prone to age-related issues. The most concerning issues revolve around the automatic transmission, particularly in the V6 models, as repairs can be expensive. Engine issues like catalytic converter and ignition coil failures are also common and can affect performance. Rust can be a significant problem in certain climates, impacting both the vehicle’s appearance and structural integrity. While minor electrical and suspension problems can occur, addressing them is generally less costly. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs.