2010 Mazda Tribute

About the 2010 Mazda Tribute

The 2010 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and a versatile interior. It’s available with a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 171 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 231 horsepower and 209 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.

The Tribute has received praise for its comfortable seats, user-friendly infotainment system, and spacious cargo area. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

• 2.5L Four-Cylinder
  • Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: Buildup of carbon deposits on the intake valves can cause reduced engine power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
    • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves or replacing the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty timing chain tensioner can cause the timing chain to skip or break, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: 09V537000, NHTSA ID: 10V537000
• 3.0L V6
  • Rear Main Seal Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: A leaking rear main seal can cause oil to seep from the back of the engine.
    • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty VVT solenoid can cause the engine to run rough and lose power.
    • Solution: Replacing the VVT solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering sensation felt during acceleration can be caused by a faulty torque converter.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shift Flare
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay or jerk when shifting gears can be caused by a faulty valve body or solenoid.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged control arm bushings can cause clunking noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking or damaged rear shock absorbers can cause a bouncy ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: A parasitic drain on the battery can cause it to discharge prematurely.
  • Solution: Disconnecting and testing electrical components to identify the source of the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can prevent the battery from charging, leading to electrical problems.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic rear bumper can crack or break, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear bumper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Side Mirror Cover Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic side mirror covers can become loose or fall off.
  • Solution: Replacing the side mirror covers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Panel Warping
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic dashboard panel can warp or deform in hot weather.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Controls Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel-mounted controls can become unresponsive or intermittent.
  • Solution: Replacing the steering wheel control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2010 Mazda Tribute is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The most severe problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension, which can be costly to repair. However, these issues are not widespread and most owners report being satisfied with the vehicle.