What are the most common Mazda Tribute problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 380+ owner reports, the 2009 Mazda Tribute has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Subframe Corrosion and Control Arm Bushing Failure, 3.0L Duratec Timing Chain Tensioner and Guide Wear Causing Cold-Start Rattle, Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Fault Drops Steering Assist (Recall 14V282). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mazda Tribute reliable?
The 2009 Mazda Tribute has 9 known issues documented across 380+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Rear Subframe Corrosion and Control Arm Bushing Failure and 3.0L Duratec Timing Chain Tensioner and Guide Wear Causing Cold-Start Rattle and Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Fault Drops Steering Assist (Recall 14V282). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mazda Tribute problems?
Repair costs for known Mazda Tribute issues range from $0 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Subframe Corrosion and Control Arm Bushing Failure, typically costs $200-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Rear Subframe Corrosion and Control Arm Bushing Failure?
The Tribute's rear subframe corrodes severely in rust-belt states, and the rear lower control arm bushings deteriorate prematurely. The combination causes the rear alignment to shift, producing tire wear and a wandering feeling at highway speeds. Ford/Mazda issued a recall for re… Repairs typically run $200-$2,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute 3.0L Duratec Timing Chain Tensioner and Guide Wear Causing Cold-Start Rattle?
The 3.0L Duratec V6 uses two timing chains, one per cylinder head, each with a hydraulic tensioner and plastic guide rails. The tensioners bleed down when the engine sits, so the classic first symptom is a rattle or slap from the front of the engine for the first one to thirty se… Repairs typically run $900-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2011 Mazda Tribute Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Fault Drops Steering Assist (Recall 14V282)?
The second-generation Tribute (2008-2011, built October 5, 2006 through September 11, 2010) uses electric power steering rather than a hydraulic pump. A software issue affecting operation of the steering torque sensor means the system may fail to correctly read driver input and,… Repairs typically run $0-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Ignition Coil Failure and Misfires?
Ignition coil-on-plug coils fail causing misfires. Ford 3.0L Duratec V6 coils are prone to cracking and arcing. Usually fails one at a time. Repairs typically run $80-$300. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Rear Differential Vibration and Noise?
AWD models develop rear differential vibration and whining noise. PTU (power transfer unit) fluid breaks down causing bearing wear. Often misdiagnosed as wheel bearing. Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Transfer Case Output Seal Leak (AWD Models)?
AWD-equipped Tribute models develop leaks from the transfer case output shaft seal, dripping fluid onto the exhaust crossover pipe. The leak creates a burning smell and can cause the transfer case to run low on fluid, leading to bearing damage and eventual failure. The seal degra… Repairs typically run $100-$1,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Front Wheel Hub Bearing Growl - Pressed-In Bearing Requires Knuckle Removal?
The Tribute's front wheel bearings are sealed units pressed into the steering knuckle rather than bolt-on hub assemblies, and they are a routine high-mileage failure across the whole run. The noise is a rumble or growl that starts around 15 mph, rises with road speed, and changes… Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2011 Mazda Tribute Rear Liftgate Glass Hinges Crack and Break (2008-2011)?
Second-generation Tributes have a flip-up rear liftgate glass carried on two small hinges bonded and bolted at the top of the glass. The hinge bodies crack and the outer half breaks away, usually one side first. Once one hinge fails the glass hangs on a single point and can bind,… Repairs typically run $60-$350. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute Blower Motor Resistor Burns Out - Heater and A/C Fan Works Only on High?
The HVAC blower speed resistor sits behind the glove box in the heater case and burns out across the whole 2001-2011 Tribute run, shared with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. The signature is that fan speeds 1 through 3 go dead while the top speed still works, because the hig… Repairs typically run $40-$300. Severity: low.
