Control arms have been replaces 3 times since new.
Instrument panel replaced at 73ooo km.
Emergency brake cables seized and were replaced.
Air bag light won't go off.
Broken ABS sensor cog on front axle.
Manifold flex pipe broke.
Manifold cracked and so on and so on.
This is my first and last Mazda product. Even though the dealership treated me well and most problems were covered by warranty, there have been far too many.
Problems began shortly after purchase and continue to today. Lately the vehicle has not been going into overdrive and you know what this does to mileage, which wasn't great to begin with.
For those with cracked manifolds check out your respective emissions regulations. Although my Tribute was not under warranty Mazda had to replace it at their cost which is about $1,500. By law in Canada and I believe the US, manifolds are considered part of the emissions system and must be warrantied by the manufacturer for 135,000km or 7 years.
Great look but no substance!
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.
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