Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Key Competitors:
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and many components with the first-generation Ford Escape.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with a choice of two capable 4-cylinder and V6 engines.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Design Philosophy:
Designed to blend SUV utility with car-like driving dynamics.
Engine Coverage:
2.0L Duratec SPI, 3.0L Duratec 30
Transmission Coverage:
4-speed automatic AX4S/AX4N, 5-speed manual M50D-R1
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Body
Electrical Coverage:
Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Starting and Charging System, Engine Control Systems
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (CD-ROM/Downloadable, typically PDF based)
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control (PCM), Fuel and Emissions, Cooling, Lubrication, Ignition, Starting and Charging, Exhaust
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (FWD/AWD), Differentials, Axles, Driveshafts
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc, ABS)
Body Chassis Climate:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Chassis Electrical, Lighting, Body Control Module (BCM)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and changes, Tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuilds, Brake component replacement, Suspension arm/bushings, Power steering system, Electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting, Component testing, Wiring diagrams for diagnosis
Special Procedures:
Timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific engine variants not listed), Fuel system bleeding, Airbag system service precautions
Depth:
Comprehensive: From routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Transmission Standard Type:
5-speed Manual (M50D-R1)
Transmission Optional Type:
4-speed Automatic (AX4S/AX4N)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Overdrive gear
Manual Features:
Standard gear ratios, clutch operation
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (check specific manual for exact spec)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Length:
172.4 inches (4379 mm)
Width:
71.2 inches (1808 mm)
Height:
65.4 inches (1661 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.2 inches (208 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
35.6 cubic feet (1008 L)
Cargo Volume Max:
67.0 cubic feet (1897 L)
Curb Weight Min:
3400 lbs (1542 kg) approx.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4500 - 4600 lbs (2041 - 2087 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (907 kg) standard, 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-star driver, 4-star passenger (as per NHTSA data for similar period vehicles)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for vehicles of this era, dependent on specific test conducted)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Not widely available or standard on this model year.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front-seat side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty may require more frequent changes).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), inspect annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.0L: 60,000 miles (96,000 km); 3.0L: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (iridium plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Engine Oil Specification:
5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM rated)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 2.0L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) for 3.0L (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Gold Coolant (or equivalent) meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1
Common Issues Engine:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan; occasional rough idle on 2.0L engine; timing chain noise on early 3.0L models (though less common than some other Ford V6s).
Common Issues Transmission:
Harsh shifting or slipping in automatic transmissions (often related to solenoid pack or fluid condition); manual transmission clutch wear.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Front strut mount wear, ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, leading to clunks or loose steering feel.
Common Issues Brakes:
Front brake rotor warping leading to pulsation; caliper sticking.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuators, blower motor resistor failure.
Mazda SUV History:
The Tribute marked Mazda's entry into the growing compact SUV market, aiming for a sportier and more car-like driving experience compared to some competitors.
Generation 1 Period:
2001-2006
Facelift Year:
2005 (minor refresh)
Assembly Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA (for North American market)
Platform Development:
Developed in conjunction with Ford, utilizing the CD3 platform, shared with the Ford Escape.
