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 11 through 20 of 137.00

• 

  Great Value - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Crockins - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I guess you would call this a 30,000 mile report. I am very pleased with my purchase of my 2002 Mazda Tribute. I have used it for long trips, camping, skiing and have not had one problem with it. All I have done is the routine maintenance. The only annoying little thing is the rear window creaks when going over bumps in the road. When I take it in for service next time I will have them check it out. Other then that I have been very pleased with it.

• 

  Tribute - fun to drive - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By gapake - November 16 - 9:13 am

  I was one of the first to buy a new Tribute. It was fun to drive and easy to maneuver. The only problem I have is it hurts my toes to drive. I am 53" and when I have to drive in stop-and-go driving, my foot does not rest on the peddle so I have to use my toes. The seat is higher than my non-SUV car so I am thinking that is the problem. Does anyone else have trouble with the peddles?

• 

  My Tribute - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Evelyn - October 27 - 3:56 pm

  After driving minivans for 12 years, I needed a change but did not want to drive an "ordinary" car. After alot of looking and comparison shopping, I spotted the Tribute and was sold. Ive only had it for 3 months but havent had as much fun driving a vehicle since I was 20 and had a sports car. I love it and it has lived up to my expectations so far. Only thing that gets in my way is the gear lever when I reach for the radio controls, and that is a minor point.

• 

  UNHAPPY..SAFETY ALERT - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By UNHAPPY2 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Since our purchase we have had nothing but problems with the car.It has been in the shop more than home. There have been many issues including faulty break cylinder,windshield wiper motor going out in the middle a rain storm,clunking noise from front end for which they have tried but failed to fix with new tires, left front axel,new transmission and torque converters. The latest while my wife and child were driving on a heavy traffic street the car stalled and would not start again. By the way coming very close to being hit by a mack truck! The reason for the stall a known computer chip problem for which Mazda has decided to fix only after someone has a problem with it.

• 

  Great car, IF it starts! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Kathy Cass - October 20 - 10:00 am

  I have had much distress over a repetitve problem that the service people cannot fix,sometimes my car wont start,leaving me stranded.They replaced the immobolizer.They cut and reprogramed new keys,a tech took it home,and couldnt get it started,had to be towed back to the dealer.Then they thought it was a wiring harness connection,took apart and reconnected, and were convinced it was fixed.I am so stressed and upset over this,I was to go on a trip this morning,but still need to get the car towed,and confront the dealer.This may be a lemon,but I have had trouble getting callbacks from the servicing dealer,Pugi.

• 

  Loyal Long-Term Friend - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By H. B. Laidlaw - September 13 - 2:33 am

  Purchased new as my wifes commuter and weekend driver. Living in Maine with grandchildren in Vermont, we learned quickly that it is terrific in the snow. Problem areas: front suspension work needed at 45,000 and new front axles due to rusted tone rings (part of ABS system) at 55,000. The torque converter stutters occasionally when downshifting, but otherwise the engine/drive train work seamlessly and after 8 years it still drives like new.

• 

  My 2002 Tribute - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By sphilips - August 29 - 10:00 am

  It is a great vehicle. Rides nicely and very roomy. Exterior is quite attractive. Mazda has an excellent warranty. Jeff Haas has a superior service department. This is my third Mazda, I plan on buying a 2005 Tribute. Love it!!!!

• 

  2002 Tribute - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Chubart - August 20 - 8:50 am

  The main problem Ive had with this car are the trouble lights. It has been in two accidents and theyve never quite fixed the wiring.

• 

  Love It - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Carluvr - August 15 - 10:00 am

  I love this SUV!! Im used to the gear shift getting in the way of the radio controls, so i just use it to rest my hand on when Im changing stations. The gas mileage is surprisingly good and I have no complaints!

• 

  Love my First Mazda!! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By R Mcintyre - July 27 - 10:00 am

  This is my first attempt at having a non-GM vehicle and I have been extremely happy. I have already put 10,000 miles on my Tribute and have not had any problems with it to date. The only options I bought were the in dash 6 disc CD changer and ABS. I checked all the other SUVs out at the time and this was the best value by far. I think it has classier exterior styling than its counterpart, the Ford Escape.