2002 Mazda Tribute ES V6
Summary:
Don't buy this car unless you have a bottomless bank account.
Faults:
Transmission failed at 60,000.
Radiator developed a leak shortly after that.
Check engine light just came on and car is running rough.
Lots and lots of rattles in the back as well as front arm rest and squeaks in the dash.
Very rough ride especially on long trips.
General Comments:
Other than the squeaks and rattles this was a good car. Then the transmission went out completely with no warning. It just suddenly went out when we were driving down the highway. My husband works from home, but also travels. He uses the car strictly to drive himself to and from the airport. The transmission repair shop said they have replaced many transmissions on Mazda SUVs.
A few weeks after the transmission was replaced the radiator began leaking.
Just when we thought it was going to run fine the check engine light came on and the car began running rough. We weren't driving very fast when this happened and haven't taken it in yet to see what this repair will cost.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 10th January, 2008
2nd Dec 2007, 20:51
I also own the 2002 Tribute ES and I also have a bad "bank # 1" manifold leaking and making terrible noise.
And my airbag light is 'on' almost constantly, and my 4X4 light flashes constantly & will no longer engage.
But - I have owned and loved Mazdas since my 1983 GLC with 225,000 miles, still running like a sewing machine, succumbed to an 8-point buck.
I will continue to drive Mazdas, but never again one made at the Kansas City Ford plant. Japan only.