Two problems related to transmission failure have been reported for the 2002 Mazda Tribute.
Transmission Failure problem
1 Purchased new in 2002-with 85000 highway miles-transmission failed- while driving on I-84 in connecticut-vehichle went into the passing gear on its own then stopped -my husband was able to coast off to the shoulder of the road. It was our luck he was past the construction zone and he was going down hill. There was no prior notice that the transmission would fail.
Transmission Failure problem
2 I had several emmision repairs done within 60 highway miles on my Mazda Tribute 2002. Now have a complete transmission failure needa new transmission. And only have 65 000highway milage. Nworsw vechile I had my vechile keep loosing power and jump into over drive suddenly onthe freeway I had to put my flassher and exited. 3 days ago.