Mazda2001–2004

Tribute 3.0: Common faults & known problems

Common faults & known problems

11 known faults documented in workshop bulletins. Of these, five concern the engine and fuel system and two the electrical and ignition. Symptoms, causes, repair steps and part numbers are shown where supplied.

Technical specifications

Engine & fuel system

5 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.

Engine stalls/cuts out when vehicle comes to a standstill

Affects All models with V6 engines.Fit new part

Cause

Mass air flow (MAF) sensor faulty.

Repair

Fit new MAF sensor.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 1.

Engine misfire

Affects All models with V6 engines.

Cause

Catalytic converter breaks up internally and blocks exhaust system.

Repair

Replace catalytic converter.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 2.

Excessive fuel consumption

Affects All models with V6 engines.

Cause

Crankcase ventilation check valve sticking due to carbon build up.

Repair

Check crankcase ventilation system. Replace component(s) as necessary.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 3.

Engine misfire following repair or service

Affects All models with V6 engines.

Cause

Ignition coil HT leads fitted to incorrect ignition coil.

Repair

Fit ignition coil HT lead(s) to correct ignition coil(s).

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 4.

Engine coolant level warning lamp illuminated even though coolant level correct

Affects All models with 3.0 petrol engine.

Cause

Coolant in coolant level sensor causing faulty readings and/or failure.

Repair

Replace coolant level sensor.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 10.

Electrical & ignition

2 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.

Battery discharged

Affects All models.

Cause

Multifunction control module constantly energized due to faulty rear central locking motor.

Repair

Check current draw of each central locking motor. Replace as necessary.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 5.

Battery discharging

Affects All models with V6 engines.

Cause

Alternator faulty.

Repair

Replace alternator.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 7.

Suspension & drivetrain

1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.

Squeaking noise from rear suspension over uneven surfaces

Affects All models.Fit new part

Cause

Rear shock absorber upper mounting bushes not correctly seated.

Repair

Fit new rear shock absorber upper mounting bushes.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 9.

Steering

2 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.

Engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated. Trouble code stored: P1650

Affects All models.P1650

Cause

Faulty power steering pressure (PSP) switch.

Repair

Replace power steering pressure (PSP) switch.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 6.

Rattling/knocking noise from front of vehicle when driving over rough roads

Affects All models.Fit modified part

Cause

Insufficient clearance between power steering return pipe and vehicle body.

Repair

Fit modified power steering return pipe.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 8.

Clutch & gearbox

1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.

Engine stalls/cuts out when vehicle comes to a standstill

Overview

Affects: All models with automatic transmission (AT).
Remedy: Adjust & tighten

Cause

Worn transmission valve block.

Transmission valve block restricted or blocked.

Repair

Renew transmission valve block.
Check operation and condition of torque converter. Replace if required.

Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 11.

Glossary

Technical terms used in this guide.

HT Lead: High-tension lead — the spark-plug wire that carries the ignition spark
MAF: Mass air flow — a sensor that measures how much air the engine is breathing
Multifunction Control Module: The control module that runs shared electrical functions (lights, wipers, locking, and so on)
Valve Block: The set of solenoid valves that directs air or fluid in the air-suspension or gearbox
Alternator: The unit that charges the battery while the engine is running
Bushes: Rubber mountings that let a suspension or body joint move without metal-to-metal contact

Frequently asked questions

What are the common faults with the Mazda Tribute 3.0?

This guide contains 11 workshop bulletins for the Mazda Tribute 3.0. Of these, five concern the engine and fuel system and two the electrical and ignition. Symptoms, causes, repair steps and part numbers are shown where supplied.

Does every Mazda Tribute 3.0 have these faults?

No. These are patterns documented across the model by workshops, not predictions for an individual vehicle. Where a fault applies only to certain vehicles or VIN ranges, that is listed with the fault.

Can I check for Mazda Tribute 3.0 faults myself?

Many of them. The documented symptoms can be seen, heard or felt during a test drive.