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2002 Mazda Tribute

Vehicle Introduction

The 2002 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV available with a choice of two engines: a 2.0L inline-four or a 3.0L V6. Both engines are paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. The Tribute is praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and impressive fuel economy. However, it has received criticism for its lack of power, particularly with the four-cylinder engine.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

  • Intake Manifold Runner Control Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough idling, poor fuel economy
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runner control valve
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No-start condition, engine stalls while driving *Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine failure, no-start condition
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
    • Note: This is a major repair that should be performed by a qualified mechanic.

3.0L V6

  • Throttle Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation, poor fuel economy
    • Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • EGR Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased emissions
    • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Shift Linkage Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace the shift linkage
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, overheating
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000
  • Transmission Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no engagement in certain gears
    • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Valve Body Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping, delayed engagement
    • Solution: Replace the valve body
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
    • Note: This is a major repair that should be performed by a qualified transmission specialist.

Suspension

  • Front Lower Control Arms
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive play, clunking noises, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace the front lower control arms
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions
    • Solution: Replace the alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Battery Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No-start condition, dim headlights
    • Solution: Replace the battery
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Starter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No-start condition, clicking noises
    • Solution: Replace the starter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

  • Rear Hatch Struts Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Weak or inoperative rear hatch
    • Solution: Replace the rear hatch struts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Tail Light Assembly Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracked or broken tail lights
    • Solution: Replace the tail light assembly
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Wiper Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative wipers
    • Solution: Replace the wiper motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Interior

  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative power windows
    • Solution: Replace the power window motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Airbag Control Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated, SRS system malfunction
    • Solution: Replace the airbag control module
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Note: This is a safety-critical component that should be addressed immediately.
  • Dashboard Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noises coming from the dashboard
    • Solution: Identify and locate the source of the rattle and secure it
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Summary

The 2002 Mazda Tribute has a variety of potential issues affecting its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Overall, the severity and cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.

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