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2002 MAZDA Tribute

9 recalls Risk Grade: A- Most severe issue: Critical

All recalls are free to repair at your local dealership. Contact your dealer to schedule service.

Known Safety Recalls

Critical #12V357000 Plain English
Component

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Manufacturer
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
What Happened
The speed control cable in your Tribute's engine is connected to the engine cover by a cable that needs a little extra clearance to work properly. Without it, the throttle can get stuck when you press the accelerator pedal all the way down.
Risk if Unfixed
If the throttle gets stuck, you could lose control of your vehicle and reach extremely high speeds, making it hard to stop or slow down. This could cause a serious crash, injury, or even a fatal accident.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will make a simple adjustment to the engine cover to give the speed control cable the clearance it needs. This repair is completely free to you, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Mazda is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2006, and 2008, Tribute vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. Remedy parts are now available. The safety recall began on September 13, 2012. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-5500, option #6.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #12V016000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Manufacturer
MAZDA MOTOR CORP
What Happened
The brake master cylinder reservoir cap in your Tribute is a small part that helps keep brake fluid from leaking out. In some 2001-2002 models, this cap can crack and leak fluid.
Risk if Unfixed
If brake fluid gets on the wiring for your anti-lock brakes, it could cause a fire, especially when you're driving. This is a serious risk that could lead to a crash or injury.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will replace the faulty cap and update your ABS system to prevent any issues, at no cost to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible, and until then, park your vehicle outside to minimize the risk.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 MAZDA TRIBUTE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 2000, THROUGH JULY 19, 2002. THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP CAN LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF BRAKE FLUID LEAKS, IT COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
CORROSION MAY DEVELOP IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR LEADING MELTING, SMOKING OR POSSIBLE FIRE.
Original — Remedy
MAZDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VEHICLE'S BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP AND MODIFY THE ABS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FREE OF CHARGE. UNTIL THE REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED, VEHICLE OWNERS SHOULD PARK THEIR VEHICLES OUTSIDE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 22, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500, OPTION 6.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #07V157000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Manufacturer
MAZDA MOTOR CORP
What Happened
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) in your vehicle relies on a control unit that helps your brakes work smoothly. In some older models, a critical seal on the ABS module's connector might be missing or loose, allowing dirt to get inside.
Risk if Unfixed
If this happens, an electrical short could cause your ABS system to fail, triggering the warning light to come on. In some cases, the module could overheat, producing a burning smell, smoke, or even a fire, either when you turn off the engine or while driving.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will inspect and repair the ABS module's connector, replacing any damaged or corroded parts at no cost to you. The repair should be done as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MIGHT CAUSE AN ABS MALFUNCTION THAT WOULD ILLUMINATE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT, AND IN SOME CASES, THE MODULE MAY OVERHEAT RESULTING IN BURNING ODOR, SMOKE, AND/OR FIRE. THIS CONDITION COULD OCCUR EITHER WHEN THE VEHICLE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION OR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE ABS MODULE FOR MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS, AND REPAIR OR REPLACE THE HARNESS CONNECTOR AS APPROPRIATE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE CONNECTOR ON THE ABS MODULE AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE CORRODED OR DAMAGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 9, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #07E023000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER

Manufacturer
CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
What Happened
The master cylinder is a critical part of your vehicle's brake system. It's responsible for sending brake fluid to your brakes when you press the pedal. In some cases, the seal on your master cylinder might fail, allowing brake fluid to leak out.
Risk if Unfixed
If the seal fails, you'll lose brake fluid, which can make your brakes less responsive. This could lead to a vehicle crash, especially if you need to stop suddenly.
Free Fix
Cardone will contact you and offer to replace your defective master cylinder with a new one, or repurchase it from you. This service is free, and you should contact them at 1-800-777-4780 to learn more.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Original — Remedy
CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #04V175000 Plain English
Component

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Manufacturer
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
What Happened
The powertrain control module in your vehicle is like the brain of your car's automatic transmission. In certain 3.0L V6 models, this module can cause the engine to shut off when you're slowing down.
Risk if Unfixed
If the engine stalls while you're decelerating, you could lose control of your vehicle, which could lead to a crash.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will reprogram the power control module with a new software calibration, and this repair is free. You should schedule the update as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 DURATEC ENGINES , DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) WITH THE APPROPRIATE CALIBRATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 3, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #15E045000 Plain English
Component

SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING

Manufacturer
Timken Company
What Happened
The wheel bearing in your vehicle is the part that connects your front wheels to the steering and braking system. The Timken Company made wheel bearings with the wrong size, which could affect how well your vehicle responds to steering and braking.
Risk if Unfixed
If you're driving with these incorrect wheel bearings, you could experience reduced control over your vehicle, making it harder to steer or brake safely, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your local dealership will replace the affected wheel bearing with a correct one, free of charge. You should contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536 to get a replacement, and they'll guide you through the process.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #14V174000 Plain English
Component

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

Manufacturer
Mazda North American Operations
What Happened
The lower control arm is a metal piece that attaches to your vehicle's frame and helps your Tribute handle turns. In some 2001-2004 Tributes, this area can corrode and weaken over time, especially in areas with high salt use.
Risk if Unfixed
If the lower control arm breaks, your steering wheel could feel loose or even lock up, making it hard to steer your vehicle. This could cause you to lose control and increase the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will install a reinforced metal bracket to protect the lower control arm from corrosion — at no cost to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as you get the recall notice to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Tribute vehicles manufactured May 22, 2000, through December 19, 2003, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace, free of charge. The recall began on May 29, 2014. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 7514D.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #04V605000 Plain English
Component

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK

Manufacturer
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
What Happened
The latch on your hatchback or liftgate is a crucial mechanism that keeps your rear cargo secure. In certain 2001-2005 Mazda SUVs, this latch might not work properly in one direction, which could lead to a safety issue.
Risk if Unfixed
If you leave your liftgate unlocked, there's a possibility it could open during a crash, which could cause injury or damage.
Free Fix
Your Mazda dealer will replace the latch release rod, attachment clip, and door handle return spring for free, ensuring your safety and the security of your cargo.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #04V583000 Plain English
Component

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES

Manufacturer
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
What Happened
Your vehicle's accelerator cable might not return to the idle position, which could cause problems with your car's speed control.
Risk if Unfixed
If this happens, your engine might idle too high, which could make it harder to stop your vehicle, and might even cause a crash.
Free Fix
Don't worry, it's free! Dealers will replace the faulty accelerator cable, and you can contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500, option #4 to schedule the repair.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE MAY PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
AN UNEXPECTED INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED MAY INCREASE STOPPING DISTANCE AND MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 28, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500, OPTION #4.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →

Browse by Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
3 recalls
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 recall
POWER TRAIN
1 recall
SUSPENSION
1 recall
STRUCTURE
1 recall
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 recall
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 recall

Other MAZDA Tribute Years

2010
3 recalls
2009
2 recalls
2008
5 recalls
2007
1 recall
2006
3 recalls
2005
4 recalls
2004
7 recalls
2003
8 recalls
2001
15 recalls

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