Overview & Reviews

After an extremely successful introductory year, Mazda's Tribute SUV receives only minor modifications for 2002. DX models get additional standard equipment in the form of alloy wheels, dark-tinted glass and remote keyless entry. After a short production run, however, the DX-V6 model will be discontinued. Midgrade LX models can be ordered with ABS as a stand-alone option (last year it was bundled with side airbags) and with a six-way power driver seat. Both LX and ES models get a new driver lumbar support feature. Side step tubes are a new option on all Tribs, and four new colors debut for 2002.

• Stout V6 power, rugged good looks, roomy cabin, attractive pricing.

• Weak standard four-cylinder engine, no low-range transfer case.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 137.00

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  Zoom-aoom-zoom--Its all true!!! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Souplady - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Tribute in April 2001 and it was love at first sight and has been ever since. It is an almost perfect car/SUV. It is fun to drive, fun to look at and fun to own. Lots of people seem to notice my car when I am driving it. I did a tremendous amount of research on SUVs before buying this car and was very pleased that I was able to find one at a reasonable price. It has a lot of get up and go and yet lots of room for all your stuff. I have had my car over a year and except for oil changes, the car has not given me one bit of trouble, not one!! Go for it---zoom, zoom, zoom!!!

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  Tribute a good buy, fun to drive - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By freedjeff - June 24 - 10:00 am

  Have had it for 4 months and no problems. Comfortable and truly fun to drive, looking forward to the winter in it. Would recommend to all.

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  Still Zooming after 50k - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By paguy - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Some minor problems with rear window seal leaking but the dealership fixed it promptly and it was covered under warranty. The brake master cylinder had a defective cap, that was also fixed. Had a few recalls. Nothing major. Our Tribute is just as quick and tight as it was when we bought it. Still a blast to drive. Its only 2wd but seems to go about anywhere anyways. The only complaint I have is the size of the gas tank and the mileage. The gas tank is only about 15 gal. and seems like were always filling the tank. I suppose the mileage is ok for a small 6 cyl. SUV. We get around 18 or 19 mpg city and around 24 or 25 mpg highway.

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  holding my breath.... - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By jp2spidey - May 11 - 10:00 am

  bought 2/2002. been in the shop 3 times as of 9/12/02. 2x for stalling problem. 1x for headlight switch not working. (relay problem i was told). headlights not coming on at night is a "bit" of a problem.the dealership has been great, no question about that. i even believe that mazda has not been very forthcoming with them. still,having to keep returning to the dealer on a new car is not very encouraging at all.now we must drive with a constant "readiness" to take the gear shift and quickly move it back into neutral to restart the car while moving.who wants to drive with that kind of pressure??we are considering the lemon law as of this moment.

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  Best Deal on a SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By JCB - May 11 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Tribute almost a year a go. 16000+ miles, 3 cross country trips and we are still loving it. Fuel economy has improved ...we are averaging 20 mpg in Atlanta traffic! on the highway we managed 25mpg. Not bad considering the great power and comfort. We seriously considered the Toyota Highlander and the Range Rover Freelander, but Tribute wins... power, price, space, ride and for far less than the others.

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  Squeeks, rattles and no rolls - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By SPD - April 30 - 2:00 am

  This is my first true cold winter with the Trib and its developed some noisy squeeks and rattles. The most annoying is the center arm rest. Any small amount of pressure applied to it and it squeeks...this has to go. Ive read all the possible problems with the Trib, but this is a new one. The next one is the back window; rattle, rattle and rattle. I realize that most "hatchbacks" develope rattles, but I dont want to hear them on my year old, 25k vehicle.

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  Loveit/Hate it - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Lisbek - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Bought it in 6/02, edited version: door chime rang nonstop when door open, replaced ignition. Happened again and finally fixed. Dashboard scratched during repair, replaced under warranty for being "warped". Odometer replaced (didnt work after dash replaced)resetting the mileage to zero. Incorrect mileage written on door jam sticker. Replaced: master cylinder, drivers seat, drivers side mirror. Repaired: rear window washer (X2), speaker, Air con vent stuck. Currently the power seat wont lower the back half and the replacement seat is developing a lump under the fabric like the first seat. I am going to pursue Mazda buying back the vehicle.

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  Only 3 flaws - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By webjock - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Fun, like a car. Not as peppy as it seems, but still a potent 200 hp. Sits high off the ground with no fear of rollover. Corners and steers well, lots of hand grips throughout the cabin for rough terrain. 3 flaws: 1-Move shifter to floor--too easy to knock the Bute out of gear reaching for the radio. 2- Interior molding comes loose easily. 3- At highway speed, we had sudden power failure...no steering / brakes...engine died...scary! Mazda says most Butes do this, yet theres been no recall! Unacceptable! Nonetheless a satisfying ride. Worth a close look in the small to mid-sized SUV class.

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  Tribute Summary - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By stev - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Here is a summary of the rest of the board. Fun to drive, looks great, good power, and nice ride. Should change the location of gear shifter, noise at high speeds, gas mileage, mud flaps, cheap "leather", lighted cruise control, ignition light-up, and steering wheel radio control. There has been some stalling early in purchase and customer service is horrible. I agree with all but the last two, knock on wood.

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  robs - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Robtc - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Great Car!! We love it. I am 64" and I fit just fine in this car. Pleanty of head room and leg room.