One problem related to steering column has been reported for the 2001 Mazda Tribute.
Steering Column problem
1 Vehicle would wander while driving at any speed, a loud squealing sound would come from steering wheel or column when making a turn, on cold mornings, there is an exhaust leak noticed from the underside center, continental tires size #16, dot #a3084531901, wearing on the inside edges. Dealer notified. Dealer replaced the steering rack, however steering continues to be loose.