2004 Mazda Tribute

The 2004 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that offered a blend of affordability and practicality. It’s generally liked for its car-like handling and relatively spacious interior. However, owners often dislike its fuel economy and somewhat dated styling compared to its competitors at the time. The available engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Duratec V6 producing 200 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission (though the manual was less common with the V6). Here’s a breakdown of the common issues reported by owners:

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle, and possible misfires. The coolant leaks externally and can be easily seen.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (typically P0420 code), reduced engine performance, and failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Inline-4

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, and potential transmission failure. Often caused by worn valve body.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement, transmission rebuild, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and transmission noise.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially noticeable at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the rear wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving, moving slowly, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage. Common in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2004 Mazda Tribute, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to watch out for. Engine gasket leaks and transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission, are the most concerning due to their potential severity and cost of repair. Electrical issues and suspension components are also areas to be aware of. Overall, while these issues aren’t universal, prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed to assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any potential problems.