2003 Mazda Tribute

The 2003 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that was well-received for its affordability and practicality. Engine options for the 2003 Tribute include a 2.0L inline-4 producing 130 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Duratec V6 producing 200 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, depending on the engine. Owners often appreciate the Tribute’s maneuverability and value, but some common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the automatic transmissions.

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light illumination (usually code P0420), reduced fuel economy, potential rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, check engine light illumination (usually codes P0300-P0306 indicating which cylinder is misfiring).
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idling, engine light illumination, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (CD4E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially 2nd to 3rd.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body or performing a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without corresponding acceleration, difficulty maintaining speed, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: This often indicates significant internal wear or damage, requiring a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear coil springs or adding helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge), warning lights illuminated incorrectly.
  • Solution: Possible repair of the instrument cluster or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Light Stays On
  • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” light stays illuminated on the instrument panel even when all doors are securely closed.
  • Solution: The problem is commonly caused by a faulty door jamb switch. Replacing the faulty door jamb switch will solve this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and other body panels. This is more prevalent in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
  • Solution: Repairing the rusted areas by cutting out the rust, welding in new metal, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+ depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mazda Tribute, while offering decent practicality and value, is prone to certain issues typical of vehicles of this age. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission, can be costly, and engine issues like catalytic converter and ignition coil failures are also common. Suspension wear and electrical glitches are also frequently reported. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential repairs and factor them into their purchasing decision, and carefully inspect the car. The severity of the issues ranges from minor electrical faults to major transmission failures, with repair costs varying accordingly.