Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Escape (platform sharing), Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Subaru Forester.
Platform:
Shared platform with the first-generation Ford Escape, indicating a robust and proven chassis design.
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a versatile, reliable, and capable compact SUV for daily commuting, light off-roading, and hauling.
Primary Coverage:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all factory specifications.
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific model year and engine, but typically extensive for a full factory service manual (often 1500-3000+ pages).
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Delivery Method:
Digital Download (PDF, potentially zipped)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (including teardown, assembly, component specifications), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU/PCM diagnostics), transmission (automatic and manual), driveline (front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, components, bleeding), wheel bearings, driveshafts, CV joints.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, climate control HVAC electrical, body control modules (BCM), wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, chassis frame, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections, belt replacement, spark plug replacement.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC interpretation and resolution.
Depth:
Expert-level technical information, including detailed disassembly and assembly procedures, torque specifications, clearances, component testing methods, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, and specifications for all major vehicle systems.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
File Size Potential:
Can be substantial, potentially up to 4000MB due to comprehensive illustrations and data.
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable on any computer and printer, allowing for hard copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - No physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - No physical paper)
Engine Options:
2.0L Duratec Inline-4 (Ford-sourced, typically for lower trims/earlier years), 3.0L Duratec 30 V6 (Ford-sourced, common for higher trims/later years).
2.0L Duratec I4 Power:
Approx. 127 hp @ 5200 rpm
2.0L Duratec I4 Torque:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.0L Duratec V6 Power:
Approx. 200 hp @ 6000 rpm
3.0L Duratec V6 Torque:
Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 and V6
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (check manual for specific engine/year requirements)
Length:
Approx. 173.0 - 175.2 inches (varies slightly by year/trim)
Width:
Approx. 71.0 inches
Height:
Approx. 67.4 - 68.5 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.1 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3700 lbs (varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 32.3 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 64.5 cubic feet
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star (check specific year's ratings, common for this era's SUVs)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star (check specific year's ratings)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good to Acceptable (varies by year, check specific IIHS ratings)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on some earlier base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, particularly with AWD.
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags for front occupants on some trims.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for severe vs. normal service).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed, based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life iridium spark plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life iridium spark plugs).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and fluid type.
Engine Oil Type I4:
5W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Blend/Full Synthetic (check manual for exact specification and capacity, typically 4.5 quarts with filter).
Engine Oil Type V6:
5W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Blend/Full Synthetic (check manual for exact specification and capacity, typically 6.0 quarts with filter).
Coolant Type:
Ford Super Coolant (Orange) or equivalent Asian Blue Long Life Coolant (IAT - Inorganic Additive Technology) for the 3.0L V6. Check manual for precise specification.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V (for Ford 4-speed automatic) or specified Mazda ATF. Crucially important to use the correct fluid.
Engine V6 Oil Leaks:
Common reported issues include valve cover gasket leaks and rear main seal leaks on the 3.0L V6.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of automatic transmission slipping or delayed engagement, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles. Proper fluid maintenance is key.
Suspension Wear:
Front struts, sway bar links, and control arm bushings can wear over time, leading to noise and poor handling.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some instances of fuel pump failure reported, especially on earlier models.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of power steering pump whine or failure.
Mazda SUV History:
The Tribute marked Mazda's entry into the compact SUV segment in North America, aiming to capture a growing market share with a stylish and practical offering.
First Generation:
This generation (2001-2006) was Mazda's first compact SUV and was developed in conjunction with Ford, sharing its platform with the Ford Escape.
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA (alongside the Ford Escape).
Market Reception:
Praised for its practicality, comfortable ride, and available V6 engine, though often criticized for its shared platform with the Ford Escape and less engaging driving dynamics compared to some rivals.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and powertrain, with some years showing average or below-average reliability. The manual will help diagnose and fix common issues.
