2010 Mazda Tribute

The 2010 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality and affordability. Available with either a 2.5L inline-4 engine producing 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque or a 3.0L V6 engine outputting 240 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque, it caters to different driver needs. The 2.5L engine is paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0L engine is exclusively mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its comfortable ride and nimble handling, while some criticisms include its dated interior and fuel economy, especially with the V6 engine.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption between oil changes, which can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Regularly check oil levels and top off as needed. Some owners have had success switching to a higher viscosity oil or using oil additives. In severe cases, engine repair or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased power, and the check engine light illuminating. Codes related to misfires on specific cylinders are typically present.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the misfire, which could be faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. Replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, engine stalling, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to VVT system performance are typically present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and a sweet smell emanating from the engine bay. Coolant leaks can occur at the water pump, radiator, or hoses.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing the water pump, radiator, hoses, or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, particularly between gears, and the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can resolve the issue. However, more severe cases may require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is locking up.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride comfort and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the lower rear quarter panels, particularly around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels. This may involve cutting out the rusted metal and welding in new panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the airbag warning light, which could be a faulty sensor, clock spring, or wiring issue. Repair or replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: Recall Number: 21V247000 - Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, Ford Explorer, and Ford Taurus vehicles. The side air bag and seat belt pretensioner circuits may corrode, causing the air bag warning light to illuminate along with an audible chime.
• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof, particularly during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean the sunroof drain tubes. If the seals are damaged, they may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mazda Tribute, while generally reliable, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine-related problems, such as excessive oil consumption and VVT solenoid failure, can be costly to address. Transmission issues like harsh shifting can also be a concern. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe but can still require attention. Rust on the exterior and airbag warning lights are notable. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues range from minor repairs to more significant expenses, so thorough inspection and maintenance are crucial.