Faults:

Electrical issues galore, radio shorted out and caught fire within 6 months.

Another time, I turned on blinker and all the dash lights blink in unison - took dealer 3 trips in to locate problem.

Windows wouldn't roll down.

Car would stall if taken out of drive.

One of the service lights is always on. As soon as I have one fixed another one comes on - right now my radiator light is on (again).

Latest issues is when I take the key out, the radio comes back on and drains the battery. Whenever I take it in to service the car won't act up so they can't fix it. : (Extremely aggravating.

Every other time I have the brakes done the rotors supposedly "have to" be replaced - not a cheap venture.

Car hesitates and makes an odd rattling noise sometimes on acceleration - dealer has been unable to recreate and fix.

Numerous recalls from the beginning of ownership.

General Comments:

I love the size, handling and pick up it has.

Unfortunately it is a high maintenance vehicle which is extremely irritating to say the least.

Faults:

The ignition coil blew at 55K miles. 5k out of warranty and the dealership wanted none of it. When we traded the car in a few months ago, it had about 21 different recalls on it. Dangerous ones too. We settled for another Tribute because I really do like the car despite the fact that it is a Ford and that I had all the problems I did with the first one. I was so glad to get rid of the 2001 before the other 5 ignition coils decided to blow.

General Comments:

This will probably be my last Tribute though, after this one, I'm getting a Toyota.

Faults:

Engine O2 sensor failure turned on Engine check light at 50,000. Front window leaked when New, (Mazda Dealer never could find where the water was coming in). Air conditioning never cools the interior of car, have had the dealer check it at least 3 times and was unable to repair. Latest problem no compression at number one Cylinder, Mazda Dealer Recommended a Long Block, After charging $80.00 to do and engine Diagnostic on the Tribute. Asked Dealer why a car with only 61,000 miles would need a New Engine? Dealer had no answer. Mazda wants $5000.00 for a new engine. Disassembled the engine Myself found Broken Valve spring on #1 Exhaust Valve of Front Cylinder head. Valve Damaged Cylinder head and Piston. Dealer Feels Mazda has no responsibility for the Engine Failure.

General Comments:

Mazda Feels They have no responsibilty to the Customer.

Buyer beware.

No more Mazda or Fords for this Customer, Family and Friends.

Faults:

Both front bearings had to be replaced.

Both stabilizers had to be replaced.

Both rear brake cylinders had to be replaced.

An air intake hose clamp was missing causing the hose to come loose.

A transmission fluid hose clamp was not tighten causing the hose to come loose and spilling out transmission fluid.

General Comments:

Engine and transmission are running great.

Very comfortable and easy handling truck.

Weak wheel bearings, suspension and brake system parts.

Overall a nice SUV.

I like to drive it.

Faults:

CD Player quit working after one week.

Check engine light kept coming on between oil changes. Dealer kept replacing the gas tank cap and suggesting that the cap was not tightened properly after fill up. After four visits, dealer finally determined problem was elsewhere (some hose?) and light has stayed off.

Front brakes worn to 10% at 60000 km. Rotors worn so much they could not be resurfaced. Total bill: $510 Canadian at Mazda dealership for front brake job only. Rear brakes were at 75% and not touched. Dealer admits this is characteristic of Mazda Tributes.

P235 70R16 Firestone Wilderness HT tires almost worn out at 60000 km. All driving in city or highway.

General Comments:

Automatic transmission shifter is in an awkward place.

Visibility is good and interior is quite roomy.

Vehicle is fun to drive. The V6 engine has no shortage of power. Ride is a little rough.

This vehicle has only 2WD which is fine for 95% of the year. For the rest of the time such as during snow storms and severe ice, 4WD would be the preferred choice.