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2009 Mazda Tribute

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2009 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that was also sold as the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. It offered a practical and affordable option for families seeking a reliable vehicle. Two engine options were available: a 2.5L inline-4 producing around 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L Duratec V6 making approximately 240 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5L was paired with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0L came standard with a 6-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Tribute’s maneuverability, fuel efficiency (especially with the 4-cylinder), and comfortable ride. Downsides mentioned include lackluster interior materials and some reported reliability concerns, especially as the vehicle ages.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

  • Rough Idle/Stalling
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may idle roughly, stall at stoplights, or hesitate during acceleration. This can be intermittent.
    • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body, replacing the mass airflow sensor (MAF), or addressing vacuum leaks are common fixes. In some cases, a software update to the PCM might be needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Illuminated check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency. Reduced fuel economy and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duratec V6

  • Ignition Coil Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, illuminated check engine light. Often, a specific cylinder misfire code (e.g., P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire) will be present.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s). It’s often recommended to replace all ignition coils at the same time, especially if the vehicle has high mileage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (depending on how many coils are replaced)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine block, often near the valve covers. Burning oil smell may be present.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. The transmission may also slip, meaning the engine revs up without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
    • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush can sometimes resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, especially when accelerating at low speeds. May also exhibit a whining noise.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Broken Rear Coil Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, especially noticeable when loaded with cargo or passengers. Clunking noises coming from the rear suspension.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering.
    • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, either intermittently or completely.
    • Solution: Replacement of the window motor, window regulator, or master switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may malfunction (e.g., speedometer not working), warning lights may illuminate erratically, or the entire cluster may go blank.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABS Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminates, loss of ABS function, potential issues with traction control or stability control systems.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels/Wheel Arches
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and moisture.
    • Solution: Repairing the rust (grinding, patching, and painting) or replacing the affected panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sun Visor Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors no longer stay in the up position and constantly droop down, obstructing the driver’s view.
    • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per visor
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Mazda Tribute, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, such as ignition coil and catalytic converter failures (especially with the V6), can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly harsh shifting in the 6-speed automatic, can also lead to significant expenses. Suspension and electrical problems are also common. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues can vary, but it’s crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a used 2009 Mazda Tribute.

Mazda, Tribute
Mazda Tribute 2009
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