Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Positioning:
Mazda's entry into the popular compact SUV segment, offering a blend of car-like handling with SUV utility. Competed with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.
Key Competitors:
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Subaru Forester.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling and engaging driving dynamics, a hallmark of Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy.
Platform Sharing:
Utilized the same platform as the Ford Escape, benefiting from shared engineering and manufacturing processes.
Engine Coverage:
2.0L I4, 3.0L V6
Transmission Coverage:
4-Speed Automatic, 5-Speed Manual
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires
Electrical Coverage:
Engine Controls, Body Electronics, Lighting, Instrumentation
Body Coverage:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Total Pages:
Approximately 1500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission operation and repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differentials, drive axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system, brake system (front/rear discs, ABS).
Electrical Electronics:
Starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), power windows, door locks, infotainment system.
Body Chassis:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, electrical circuit diagnostics, emissions system testing.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine repair (head gaskets, timing belts/chains), transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component replacement.
Special Procedures:
Air conditioning system servicing, airbag system safety precautions and repair, fuel system cleaning and diagnosis, drive axle and CV joint replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes detailed torque specifications, schematics, and step-by-step repair instructions.
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (for 2.0L models)
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (available on both 2.0L and 3.0L models)
AWD Option:
Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (i-AWD) system
Gear Ratios Auto:
Detailed gear ratios for the 4-speed automatic are available in the manual.
Gear Ratios Manual:
Detailed gear ratios for the 5-speed manual are available in the manual.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear seat belts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry system.
Power Outlets:
12V accessory power outlets.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Approximately 100,000 miles (if using iridium plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L:
Approximately 100,000 miles (if using iridium plugs).
Timing Belt Chain Check:
Timing chains on both engines are designed to last the life of the engine, but inspection for noise is recommended.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
Approx. 6.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, silicate-free, orange color).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
MERCON V ATF or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mercon or MERCON V ATF
Common Problems:
Minor coolant leaks (especially from water pump or thermostat housing), occasional A/C system issues, front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), potential for spark plug blow-out on early V6 models (torque spec critical).
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of rough shifting or torque converter shudder on automatic transmissions; regular fluid changes are crucial.
Mazda Focus:
Mazda's reputation for producing driver-focused vehicles with engaging handling, extending this philosophy to its SUV offerings.
First Generation Intro:
Introduced for the 2001 model year, the Tribute was Mazda's first compact SUV.
Facelift:
Received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2005 model year, featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and potentially revised option packages.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in North America (primarily Kansas City, Kansas, alongside the Ford Escape).
Safety Awards:
The 2005 Mazda Tribute generally performed well in safety tests for its era, though specific awards may vary.
Fuel Economy Estimates 2.0L:
Approx. 20 MPG city / 25 MPG highway (FWD).
Fuel Economy Estimates 3.0L:
Approx. 17 MPG city / 21 MPG highway (AWD).
