Fuel Delivery Problems of Mazda Tribute

1). Three recalls on my vehicle: 1st - power train control module re-calibration recall 1904d. 2nd - b4000 dpfe sensor warranty extension program special service program (ssp) 59. 3rd - accelerator cable recall 2704l. Completed all recalls; last on 3/2/05. 2). 2/2005 I started experiencing intermittent problems with my vehicle: - the car stops running usually when slowing down for a stop sign or red light. The car has stopped in the middle of traffic, in the height of rush hour. The car stopped exiting a post office backing up traffic causing motorist to seek another exit. Have had various other stops but have been lucky not to cause any accidents. - the car will not start; usually upon short trips. After waiting 3 - 5 minutes have been able to start the vehicle. Have encountered this numerous times. I limit driving at night due to the unpredictability and lack of confidence in my vehicle. 3) I have had my car service at oakland Mazda (510)893-7282 (3/2/05-recall, 4/9/05, 4/19/05, 5/11/05, & 6/20/05) and have discussed the problem with the serv advisor, ken miller & service manager. The dealership informed me they thoroughly checked-out my car each time they serviced it. They have repeated the recall which mostly describes my symptoms (re-calibration recall 1904d) at least twice. They also contacted the Mazda headquarters service center for documentation on how to check out my vehicle. I also contacted the Mazda customer assistance center at (800)222-5500 in may of 2005, they told me that if necessary they could dispatch a service technician to fly in and repair my vehicle; they also sent a report to the oakland district mgr. I contacted the Mazda cust assist center again on 7/14/05 , they told me that they would not be able to help me further with my car problem. 7/15- I contacted the dealership in fremont (where I bought the car) explained my problems and asked if they would consider taking a look at my car but the serv mgr never called me back.

See all problems of the 2002 Mazda Tribute.

I've owned this vehicle for a little over 2 years and it has been to the dealer for repairs 7 times now. No one can seem to find the reason why the check engine light stays on, why the fuel consumption is so poor, why the vehicle shifts constantly and for no reason at all, or why the vehicle "shudders" when the engine is on. The check fuel cap light has come on twice and the same part replaced twice. The canister close valve and idle air control valve have both failed. I have spent money on a fuel induction service because it was recommended by the service dealer. I had the transmission flushed because of a technical service bulletin for the torque converter - a problem that had to be identified by aamco and told to Mazda before they would try to fix the problem. I have called Mazda customer service and got anything but customer service. My problems began long before the warranty had expired; however, Mazda could care less about their lack of ability to fix ongoing problems. This vehicle is a life-safety hazard and needs to be recalled completely, not part by part. I will never buy a Mazda again. This is my third and last. The Tribute is by far the worst thing ever manufactured by Mazda. They should be embarassed to have this model on the road!.

Fuel tank design problem on a 2005 Mazda Tribute. The vehicle has been taken to the dealer for a fuel tank filler problem they cannot rectify and claim that it is a Mazda design error. When filling the tank gas spews out shutting of the pump. The consumer was then required to manually overriding the pump by continually clicking the pump on and off rapidly.

See all problems of the 2005 Mazda Tribute.

The transmission failed with less than 600 miles on the car due to a hose clamp not being secured during manufacture. Ever since then I have had problems with the car hesitating and almost stalling when accelerating from a stop just after starting the car. It also happens more often if the car is not level at the time, either on an incline or decline. If I let the car warm up for a few minutes, I generally do not have this problem. I have also had a problem with the gas pedal feeling like it sticks or is catching on something, I have noticed this problem more often when the outside temperature is below 75 degrees. When the accelerator finally activates, the car general lunges forward or will spin the tires, I have learned to let my foot off of the accelerator to keep the car under control. I have also had problems with the car shifting abruptly between gears, but this has subsided quite a bit. I have also felt a vibration in the car around 45 and 70 mph. I don't feel the vibration in the steering wheel, it feels like it is coming from the middle of the car, more in the transmission/drivetrain area. I have had the tires rotated a balanced 3 times and also had the alignment checked, but the vibration still occurs. I have taken the car back to the dealership numerous times and they always say they can not duplicate the problems. I have researched all of the complaints and recalls for the Tribute and the Ford escape, since they are basically the same vehicle, and there are quite a few similar complaints. I think the hesitating problem is related to the recall for the "stalling" problem, I think the problem is more widespread than they thought or the fix for the recall did not solve the problem entirely.

See all problems of the 2003 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.

See all problems of the 2001 Mazda Tribute.

Fuel odor coming from engine through vents. Noticeable after a warm start of engine or while vehicle is sitting. No leaks can be detected.

I was stopped at a fast food place when my wife and I noticed a strong fuel smell coming from the right side of the vehicle. The drive through attendent told us that fuel was leaking outside of the car. I got out to see and there was the leak. Right under the pillar between the drivers' side door and the rear door. It was a steady drip.

Many other owners of the Mazda Tribute and Ford escape also experience this problem. The dealer said it was probably a chemical burning off the engine - this doesn't make sense. The smell usually only occurs when you start after shutting off the vehicle for a short period. Upon starting, a faint gasoline smell comes thtough the vents for about 15 seconds and then goes away. We(owners of this new type of vehicle) are concerned that there may be a leak/ larger problem. Thank you.

Fuel smell entering cabin though vents on all settings during warm starts.