Differential Unit problems of the 2001 Mazda Tribute

Transmission has been replace (with a rebuilt trans) in sept. In Nov, we had to have the rack replaced and the rear differential was leaking. The master cylinder cover was leaking. Additionally we experienced a gas smell throughout the cabin. The left front window has had repairs. We have also experienced numerous squeaks and rattles all over the vehicle. Today while driving down hill the vehicle completely shut down. I had no steering or brakes and had to stop the vehicle with the hand brake. This stall almost resulted in a rear end acciedent. Lastly the tires had to be replaced at approximately 19000 miles.

In June 2001, the rear differential seal failed with only 4800 miles on the car. It is unknown if the seal failure resulted in damage to the axle assembly. On July 19, 2001 the tension rod spring that holds the serpentine belt in place completely disintegrated , leaving metal shards, springs, and belt on the ground. Fortunately, the car was not in use at the time, or major damage to both the occupant (my 18 year old daughter) and the car would have occurred. At that time, the car only had 5400 miles on it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.