2005 Mazda Tribute

377 federal complaints (542 component records) · 3 recall campaigns on file · 131 service bulletins · 2 Canadian recalls
See all 12 model years of the Mazda Tribute →
Engine
2.3L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
19 city / 23 hwy
Federal complaints
377
Recall campaigns
3
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Suspension
137
Body & structure
126
Speed control
85
Power train
25
Engine & cooling
25
Brakes
25
Wheels
23
Other
21
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 27 complaints01 years old: 13 complaints2 years old: 14 complaints3 years old: 18 complaints4 years old: 19 complaints5 years old: 20 complaints56 years old: 8 complaints7 years old: 17 complaints8 years old: 15 complaints9 years old: 45 complaints10 years old: 53 complaints1011 years old: 49 complaints12 years old: 34 complaints13 years old: 16 complaints14 years old: 14 complaints15 years old: 5 complaints1516 years old: 5 complaints17 years old: 1 complaints18 years old: 2 complaints19 years old: 1 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 376 of 377 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 13 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 21 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 22 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 27 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 54 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 45 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 49 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 35 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 13 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 15 complaints200,000+ miles: 8 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 302 of 377 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Suspension

137 complaint records1 crash report
"WHILE TURNING INTO A BUSINESS THE LOWER CONTROL ARM MOUNT CAME APART AT THE SUBFRAME. THERE APPEARS TO BE SUBSTANCIAL RUST IN THE AREA...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Body & structure

126 complaint records3 crash reports
"THE UNDERSIDE AND EVEN THE FUEL ENTRY AREA IS RUSTED AND IS BEGINNING TO AFFECT THE EXTERIOR PAINT JOB AROUND THE TRUCK AND DOORS...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse body & structure parts in the directory →

Speed control

85 complaint records3 crash reports
"GAS PEDAL STICKING OR FREEZING WHILE DRIVING. OCCURS WHEN COLD OR RAINING. HAD REPAIRED ONE TIME BUT IS HAPPENING AGAIN. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse speed control parts in the directory →

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
12V357000Vehicle Speed ControlMazda is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2006, and 2008, Tribute vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control.Normally free
06V116000SeatsCERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITHOUT SIDE AIR CURTAINS OR MOON ROOFS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.Normally free
04V605000Latches/Locks/LinkagesCERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE...Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2012237
2012-07-27
Other34,210On certain vehicles equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine and speed control, inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully...
2005004
2005-01-06
Other5,716Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 206 - Door Locks and Door Retention Components. The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the Technical Standards Document 206 Inertia Load requirement.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SA-055-26
Aug 2026
Unknown Or OtherProduct Quality Information (PQI) DESCRIPTION Service Information MT-041/12 is no longer valid. It has been unpublished and superseded by the Field Quality Information Report (FQIR) reporting system.
09-022-26
Jul 2026
Visibility/WiperThis bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. 09-042/04 12/10/04 DESCRIPTION Some vehicles may exhibit inoperative electric rear window defroster grid lines, integral antenna concerns causing radio reception issues or...
SA-029-26
Apr 2026
Power TrainThis Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems.
09-038-24
Aug 2024
Unknown Or OtherIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
SA-011-24b
Jul 2024
Unknown Or OtherMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SA-011-24a
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
SA-011-24
Feb 2024
WheelsMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
09-016-23
Feb 2023
Electrical SystemSpeedometer replacement procedure
02-004-22a
Nov 2022
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
09-024-22
Jul 2022
Electrical SystemIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer.
01-006-22
Jun 2022
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
02-004-22
May 2022
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
SA-014-22
Mar 2022
EquipmentAccessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories.
01-003/22
Mar 2022
Electrical SystemThe Mazda DCA-8000 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
00-001-22
Feb 2022
Power TrainMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
01-006-21-3779b
Dec 2021
Electrical SystemBattery Maintenance: This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
05-002-21-3854
Dec 2021
Power TrainAutomatic Transmission/Transaxle Cooler and Lines Flushing Procedure: Automatic Transaxle/Transmission (A/T) oil cooler and lines must be power flushed completely before an overhauled or replacement A/T is installed (except SKYACTIV-DRIVE).
01-006-21-3779a
Aug 2021
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
09-025-21-3824
Aug 2021
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the driver’s floor mat to avoid any potential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference, which can be avoided with proper usage.
SA-041-21
Jun 2021
EquipmentAccessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories. The links provided below can be used for quick access: For 2016 models and newer: NOTE: Instructions are found under the "Attachments" section once a part is selected.
01-005-21-3778
Feb 2021
Electrical SystemThe Mazda DCA-8000PM is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000PM is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
01-006-21-3779
Feb 2021
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
00-001-21-3768
Jan 2021
SteeringMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
09-002-21-3770
Jan 2021
Electrical SystemIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer
MT-002-20
Aug 2020
WheelsNew CARB regulation regarding mandatory checking and documenting of tire pressure whenever a vehicle is in for service work. This applies to all service shops (including Mazda dealerships) in California effective September 1, 2010.
09-006-20-3673a
Jul 2020
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Paint Warranty Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable).
00-001-20-3689
Mar 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
09-006-20-3673
Jan 2020
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Pocket Paint Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable). Copies of the Mazda Pocket Paint Guide are available for order on Mazda e-Store (part number: 9999-95-MPPG-12).
02-002-20-3651
Jan 2020
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
09-003-20-3671
Jan 2020
EquipmentIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
SA-013-19
Apr 2019
EquipmentMAZDA IDS INOPERATIVE WITH VCM-II LICENSE EXPIRATION MESSAGE - If you encounter an IDS inoperative problem with VCM-II license expiration message, follow the instructions below: 1. CLICK HERE to download the resetting tool to your PC desktop. 2.
00-003-19-3583
Mar 2019
Fuel SystemIn support of the new MRT distribution, Mazda will ship to dealers a new Dual Purpose Diagnostic Leak Detector beginning March, 2019. Training videos will be posted to MGSS shortly and Workshop Manual procedures will be revised gradually.
02-004-19-3574
Jan 2019
SteeringSome customers may complain that the steering wheel is off center more than 3° even when driving straight on a flat road.
00-001-19-3560
Jan 2019
EquipmentMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle- specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
00-002-19-3561
Jan 2019
Service BrakesMazda North American Operations has approved an additional on-car brake lathe as an option for MNAO authorized equipment. The Pro-Cut On-Car Brake Lathe has been added to the MNAO authorized equipment program.
09-005-19-3562
Jan 2019
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Pocket Paint Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable). Copies of the Mazda Pocket Paint Guide are available for order on Mazda e-Store (part number: 9999-95-MPPG-12).
09-009-19-3566
Jan 2019
Electrical SystemIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
09-004-19-3543
Jan 2019
EquipmentMazda infotainment systems require contacting the proper source for diagnostic support, parts authorization, and parts exchange. Some components require prior authorization before ordering as exchange.
01-004-19-3558
Jan 2019
Engine And Engine CoolingOn some vehicles, a sulfur smell or 'rotten egg' odor may be noticed coming from the exhaust system. The odor is usually noticed after a cold start, fast idle, extended periods of idling and full throttle acceleration.
09-002-19-3554
Jan 2019
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityThis service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the driver's floor mat to avoid anypotential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference,which can be avoided with proper usage.
01-001-19-3551
Jan 2019
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
01-002-19-3552
Jan 2019
Electrical SystemThe Mazda GR8-1291 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda GR8-1291 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
02-001-19-3550
Jan 2019
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
MT-012-18
Dec 2018
StructureIf a vehicle has body vibration or steering wheel shimmy while driving and the root cause is determined to be tire balance, re-balance the tires using a Hunter GSP9700 or equivalent balance machine.
00-001-18-3446a
Oct 2018
EquipmentMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle- specific workshop manual or owner's manual.
00-003-18-3480a
Oct 2018
Service BrakesMazda North American Operations has approved an additional on-car brake lathe as an option for MNAO authorized equipment. The Pro-Cut On-Car Brake Lathe has been added to the MNAO authorized equipment program.
09-014-18-3443a
Oct 2018
EquipmentWhen encountering a vehicle with paint damage, refer to the "Mazda Pocket Paint Guide" to determine cause, prevention, remedy, and warranty coverage (if applicable). Copies of the Mazda Pocket Paint Guide are available for order on Mazda e-Store (part number: 9999-95-MPPG-12).
09-034-18-3430a
Oct 2018
Vehicle Speed ControlIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
01-016-18-3522
Sep 2018
Engine And Engine CoolingOn some vehicles, a sulfur smell or 'rotten egg' odor may be noticed coming from the exhaust system. The odor is usually noticed after a cold start, fast idle, extended periods of idling and full throttle acceleration.
09-034-18-3430
Aug 2018
Vehicle Speed ControlIn accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws.
09-029-18-3497
Jun 2018
EquipmentIn the event that all vehicle keys are lost and the vehicle key code is not available on the Vehicle Retail Data Inquiry system, replacement keys may only be acquired by obtaining the key code using the Repair Procedure below.
00-003-18-3480
May 2018
Service BrakesMazda North American Operations has approved an additional on-car brake lathe as an option for MNAOauthorized equipment. The Pro-Cut On-Car Brake Lathe has been added to the MNAO authorizedequipment program.NOTE: Accu-turn is still an approved brake lathe, but it is no longer...
09-025-18-3479
May 2018
EquipmentMazda infotainment systems require contacting the proper source for diagnostic support, parts authorization, and parts exchange. Some components require prior authorization before ordering as exchange.
02-010-18-3477
May 2018
SteeringSome customers may complain that the steering wheel is off center more than 3° even when driving straight on a flat road.
05-001-18-3453
Apr 2018
EquipmentAlways be sure to use the correct automatic transmission fluid when replacing ATF. Using the wrong ATF may cause shift quality complaints or may even damage the transmission. NOTE: ATF M-V (TYPE M5) IS NOT THE SAME FLUID AS MERCON®V OR MERCON®LV ATF.
09-019-18-3450
Mar 2018
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityThis service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the driver's floor mat to avoid any potential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference, which can be avoided with proper usage.
01-008-18-3451
Mar 2018
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost.
01-009-18-3452
Mar 2018
Electrical SystemThe Mazda GR8-1291 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda GR8-1291 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement.
02-006-18-3449
Mar 2018
SuspensionSome customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal.
00-001-18-3446
Mar 2018
EquipmentMazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual.

Showing 60 of 131 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  2. Walk the body slowly in daylight.Panel gaps, rust at the rockers and wheel arches, and cracked trim are this vehicle's structure complaints. Open and close the liftgate or trunk and look at the latch area.
  3. Test the throttle response and the cruise control on an open road.A surge, a hang in engine speed after lifting off, or cruise that will not set or cancel cleanly are the speed-control complaints on this vehicle.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 3 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Mazda Tribute →