Market Position:
Compact SUV (Crossover) positioned as a practical and versatile option for families and individuals seeking an affordable and reliable vehicle.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against popular compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, and Chevrolet Tracker. The Tribute offered a comfortable ride, decent fuel economy, and a more car-like driving experience compared to some truck-based competitors.
Key Features:
Shared platform with the Ford Escape. Available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Offered a choice of two capable gasoline engines. Known for its relatively quiet cabin and comfortable interior for its class. Good cargo capacity and versatile seating configurations.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service and repair for all major mechanical and electrical systems. Includes maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
Page Count:
Approximately 1500+ pages (estimated for a complete factory service manual equivalent)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Print (Paperback)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance (Fuel & Ignition), Emission Control Systems, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Drivetrain (Front Axle, Rear Axle, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Power Accessories), Climate Control System (HVAC), Body & Frame, Interior Components, Exterior Components, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, torque specifications, special tool recommendations, fluid capacities and types, electrical circuit testing, component testing, power input/output testing.
Technical Depth:
Expert Level: Detailed diagnostic procedures, complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system troubleshooting down to individual component and circuit level, precise torque values, specifications for all major components, advanced diagnostic techniques.
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Binding Type:
Perfect Binding or Saddle-Stitched (typical for workshop manuals)
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty, gloss or matte finish paper designed to withstand shop use and oil/grease exposure.
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (for FWD and AWD models)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models. Optional traction control system (TCS) on some trims.
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer. Available in-dash CD changer on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control standard on most trims. Rear parking sensors were an optional addition on later models of this generation, but less common for 2000.
Connectivity Options:
Limited for the year 2000. Primarily featured auxiliary input for portable music players (if equipped). No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (iridium-tip spark plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (platinum-tip spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type 4Cyl:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant or equivalent (ETEC-139) - typically a long-life, silicate-free coolant.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V (or Mercon compatible)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mercon ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Known Issues:
Catalytic converter failure, ignition coil failure (especially on the V6), front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), minor electrical gremlins, potential for rust in northern climates, transmission solenoid issues (less common).
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker known for its focus on driving dynamics and innovative design, entered the compact SUV market with the Tribute.
Model Evolution:
The 2000 model year represents the launch of the first-generation Mazda Tribute. This generation was developed in partnership with Ford and shared its platform with the Ford Escape. It was Mazda's first entry into the burgeoning SUV segment in North America.
Production Years:
2000-2006 (1st Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA (for North American market)
