Engine Exhaust System Problems of Mazda Tribute

The contact owns a 2003 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds when started and while driving. The sounds began after the vehicle was repaired according to NHTSA campaign number: 14v174000 (structure: frame and members). The dealer stated that the exhaust bolts were not tightened and the front driver side tie rod end was loose. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 117,685.

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At all speeds other than idle the vehicle inadvertently loses power and smokes. This is a new 2008 Mazda Tribute. The danger is while on the highway at speed suddenly the problem occurs and the condition becomes unsafe.

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My 2001 Mazda Tribute will stall in the middle of traffic. I lose the ability to control the vehicle when this happens. In December 2007, my idle air control valve failed. I had it replaced by a Mazda dealership service department. In September 2008, the idle air control valve failed again, along with the upper intake gasket. I had this replaced again by a Mazda technician. On October 10, 2008, my vehicle stalled again due to the idle air control valve. I lost control of my vehicle and ended up in a ditch. I had the vehicle repaired again by a Mazda technician, replacing the idle air control valve and the lower intake gasket. On October 16, my vehicle stalled again in traffic, I was very nearly rear-ended. Mazda technicians keep instructing me to replace various parts of my car. However, the fact remains that they are unable to repair this vehicle sufficiently to prevent its failing again, leaving me extremely vulnerable to a potentially catastrophic vehicular accident. My vehicle is too dangerous to continue operating because of the shoddy and inept craftsmanship rendered by Mazda. I am not alone in my complaints. The internet is filled with complaints relating to stalling problems of Mazda sedans and suvs. Swift and decisive action should be made against Mazda USA by the NHTSA to prevent the continued presence of dangerous Mazda vehicles on the road.

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While driving our 2002 Mazda Tribute on the highway, a fire started under the car - we suddenly noticed engine started to stutter and then saw smoke coming out of the back of the car and then the exhaust pipe fell out of the rear. Within a minute or so as we were trying to pull over, both the steering wheel and the brake failed. We finally brought the car to stop on the shoulder of the exit ramp close by, by decelerating and using the parking brake. When we got out, we saw active fire under the car toward the back. The fire was put out almost immediately by a person who stopped to help us with a fire extinguisher. All of this took less than 5 minutes. The fire men who arrived at the scene within minutes opened up the hood and said there was no engine oil. The police was present at the scene. The car was purchased new 4 years ago and we've had no major problems for the last 55,000 miles. The engine oil was filled 5 days before that and the car ran fine for the 450 mile trip right up to that point. The low engine oil warning light did not come on until after the vehicle came to a stop. Aaa adjuster suspected an engine problem and his theory was that engine shaft broke and punctured the oil pan from inside but no forensic inspection was carried out by the insurance company. The car was towed to a Mazda dealer shop for inspection at our request but the dealership refused to offer a conclusive explanation or carry out a forensic inspection. The car is currently parked there and it has not been fixed (and the old parts are still in the car). Both the insurance company and the Mazda are refusing to pay for the engine repair and we're considering our options. We have filed a claim to Mazda to no avail.

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I have had constant problems with my Mazda. In 2003 I had to get new sway bar links. This SUV is treated well and should not of had such a problem so early. Than in 2005 had to have two coil packs replaced. 2006 had to have to more coil packs replaced ,thanks goodness I only have 6 coil packs. Now the last three years I have had problems with my catalytic converters ( not sure if that is spelled right) but I had a new one put in because my SUV would not run at all little did they inform me that my SUV has four so now I am having the same problem because of another one going bad.

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.

Gas fumes come inside after vehicle has been started, and heat is turned on. Vehicle was taken to dealership, and mechanic indicated had no parts due to them being on back order from manufacturer.

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Whenever vehicle has been started can smell fumes inside vehicle. Had not taken vehicle to dealership.

When the car engine is driven for more than 10 min and then shut off, when you restart the engine you get a strong fuel vapor from the vents in the car. Also when the car is colling down like in the garage you get a strong fuel vapor from the passenger side of the engine. I brought the car back to the dealer for service and they said there is no fuel leaks and that it must be a new engine burn off smell. I have spoke to at least 12 people on edmunds . Com who have the same problem with no solution. I hope you can help because I feel this could be dangerous.

The exhaust system emitted bad fumes.