Used 2002 Mazda Tribute Consumer Reviews
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Best Small SUV
Big Tom, 03/02/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Test drove and priced several small SUVs. I am 6'9". This one has plenty of head and leg room and is comfortable to drive. I have the ES model and it has everything to offer that vehicles selling for $10000 more have. The gas economy is a little weak but appears to match other 6 cylinder vehicles with the same horsepower.
AOK by me
teleskier, 02/16/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had the Trib for 3 months, but so far I've enjoyed my purchase. My biggest concern was performance in snow, as I live in a mountainous region and like to ski. The Trib has done fine driving through snow storms and up snowy mountain roads. It also holds all my gear with out a problem. I like the power it has to go up Mountain passes and to cruise on the highway. The roof rack could be a little higher as the clamps for Thule ski rack I put on don't have enough clearance off the roof. The gas milage is disappointing, I've been averaging 18-19 mpg with a combination of highway and city driving. R
2002 Mazda Tribute for sale near you
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No Problems Here
GMan, 02/22/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had my Tribute for about 7 months now and am quite happy with it. Only thing which stands out is gas mileage which seems poor. Other than that, comfort and handling is excellent as well as performance.
Best SUV under 26K
Sheila Sullivan, 07/10/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very peppy performing "small" SUV that feels like a mid-size vehicle & corners like a sports car. Lots of room inside for "real" people, including rear seat legroom. Fold the rear seats down & it becomes a serious hauler - very tall & wide rear hatch. Gas mileage is consistently around 20 mpg (& I drive it enthusiastically!) Just can't beat it for the bucks. After a lot of research, we are strongly considering another new Tribute next year. There just isn't anything else in its class that combines great looks, true functionality, economy of operation, and FUN to drive.
Only 3 flaws
webjock, 07/25/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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 there's been no recall! Unacceptable! Nonetheless a satisfying ride. Worth a close look in the small to mid-sized SUV class.
The Snappy 2002 V-6 MAZDA Tribute 4WD
Bill Arndt, 09/09/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent, good looking, snappy little SUV that offers comfort, performance, and reliability. While generally economical for an all-wheel-drive, the fuel economy drops markedly with a boat in tow. The interior appointments are quite good with little lacking except "quiet". Let's face it... this is a noisy vehicle and the unacceptable level of road noise is the only major disappointment we have had with the otherwise great Tribute.
Fun to drive - around town
ArtB, 07/20/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This IS a fun car to drive and looks great but someone my age(74)should be driving something more comfortable. I much prefer our 96 Voyager on trips. Mileage is disappointing, usually about 17 mpg. Car is OK, I'm just 30+ years too late. Car had to have steering box replaced about a month after we bought it. No other problems.
I love my Tribute!!
piazzafan, 08/07/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Tribute. I've owned it for over a year and have had no problems at all. It is a lot of fun to drive and looks great too. I also liked it better than the Ford Escape (the Escape has rubber on lower body instead of being painted). It has great power and brakes and tight steering. I would buy another one in a heartbeat!
Loveit/Hate it
Lisbek, 10/28/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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 (didn't 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 won't 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.
Stalling problem almost killed me...
DMD, 10/09/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was quite happy with my Tribute until this week. It stalled 2x. Once at 50mph on a 4 lane hwy in the PM rush hour. Lost all power/brakes & steering. A car-carrier truck (fully loaded w/cars) would have killed me but I was able to muscle the Tribute off the road. Stalled again next day in rush hour going around a curve at 25MPH. Had to muscle it off road into someone's yard to avoid causing an accident. It is at the dealership now. Very scary - very dangerous - someone will be killed if this stalling problem is not fixed. I cannot believe there has been no recall. Is Mazda waiting for a lawsuit?
You Get What You Pay For!
Riason, 10/30/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had 2003 model for 6 months with all features and quite impressive for the price. Most of mileage has come from four 1500 mile trips with only negatives being road noise, poor gas mileage, and bad roof vibration at 70mph on windy days. No perceived drag on engine with air on but if you can do without it, the mileage improves from 20 to 26mpg. Lots of storage and room for cargo; better than my RX330 but not nearly as quiet and smooth riding. But at 1/2 the price, the Mazda is a better value. Long term reliability/cost is the issue and only time will tell which is the better value.
Great Value
Crockins, 02/17/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
It's a Ford, people.
rjpaxton, 03/09/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute DX 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased the 2WD DX model instead of a small pickup, and were pretty happy with it for a few months. It looks great from the outside, and the interior design is well-thought out and easy to work with. It's slooooow, though I'm sure the V6 is zippier. Decent handling once you put good tires on it. Problems with: stereo, driver's side window, rear hatch window, failed wheel bearing, clutch pedal squeak, clutch chatter. Quality wholly unacceptable.
Problems Starting Vehicle
Stranded & Mad, 03/26/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The vehicle won't start. It takes about 4 tries before the car finally starts. This has happened countless times. The service person can't find the problem. Previously had the stalling problem twice. Had the door molding start coming down. Headlight has condensation in it. Hear squeking noise on the passenger door panel. Accelerator gets stuck & suddenly accelerates. To much brake dust.
2002 LX Tribute
kcowan, 04/09/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great vehicle. The only problems we have experienced have been with a sensor on the airbag system.
Cd sound problems?
canuck, 04/15/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Tribute, but after reading the other reviews I'm a tad worried about brakes, rotors etc. However, my only problem has been a strange noise in the cd player...I've had it replaced once but the new one has it as well. Has anyone else experienced problems with the CD player? Or is it just me? Canuck
My 2002 Tribute
sphilips, 07/23/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!!!!
Great
Shon, 09/12/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We love the handling, power and features the Tribute has. This SUV is perfect for a family of four.
Nice SUV
Freeway823, 10/08/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the vehicle is good looking has a powerful motor and nimble handling. Has all the power equiptment that is to be expected in a SUV. The roof rack is nice but I dont think I will ever use it. The tinted glass is a nice touch.
Great SUV
Willy_Tail, 10/12/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had mine for 3 years now with no problems. I would highly reccommend this vehicle.
Still Zooming after 50k
paguy, 10/31/2004
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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. It's 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 we're 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.
Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2002
jbondjbond, 01/29/2006
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The vehicle has been reliable. It is fun to drive and reasonably comfortable even on an all day drive. It could use a little more back seat leg room and a little more rear storage width. The back seats won't fold flat unless you first remove the headrests. It definitely needs more soundproofing. It is a noisy highway ride. Actual mileage is about 2-3 mpg less than advertised. Overall the vehicle has more pros than cons. We have never had any regrets on the purchase.
Great Over the Long Haul - 4+ years
ameliacatz, 05/02/2006
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this vehicle for almost 5 years now and overall it has been great. I've had very few problems and it has been economical to maintain. There have been a few recalls which were handled without problem. I did need to have the power sunroof repaired when it decided to stop closing, but it was under warranty and the dealer rushed me in without an appointment the day I called and I've had no problems since. As to brake usage, I'm still using the original set. At the 50,000 service they said it would need brakes next time. My '96 Chevy Blazer needed brakes every 20,000 miles! I just replaced the original tires a few months ago. I've enjoyed driving the vehicle!
2002 Mazda Tribute Review
bud, 03/05/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drives like a sports car. Strong V6 has great acceleration. Highway gas mileage averaging 23.8 mpg. Power sunroof is great, no drafs or wind noise.
The perfect ute?
willob, 03/06/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We love our Tribute so far. Good height, excellent milage, roomy, nice ride. Seems to answer all needs.
Mazda Overview
Joseph C. Campa, 04/25/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice vehicle to own, fun to drive. Lousy dealership for work to get done on it.
Great SUV!
Mike in NJ, 03/07/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In October 2000, read a glowing review of the Tribute in Edmunds. Test drive was impressive. Ordered an ES and had a 3-month wait for delivery (the early days). Its primarily my wife's car, but we both use it and have no qualms about our purchase. NO PROBLEMS at all. It is fun to drive and economical. We haul loads of supplies to and from our lake house in the Spring and Fall and have been pleasantly surprised by the amount of "stuff" it will hold. We highly recommend it to you.
Zoom Zoom Zoom
Shawnee, 04/29/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have owned 2 Mazda's. Great value, reliable, fun to drive.. The seats are awesome.. so comfortable. Would purchase another Tribute without a thought..
I love it
Joe A., 05/16/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Advertised mileage is 19/25, I've been consistently getting 21/26 and even 27 on the highway if I keep it at around 70. It's quick, and handles well. Easily tows my 20 foot bayliner boat.
mazda tribute lx
Justine Ryan, 03/08/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I decided to buy a 4 wheel drive SUV as my purchase due to the fact that I drive frequently to VT and it is very hilly and snowy in my destination area. I compared many type and model SUV's and opted to purchase a mini SUV. I then selected the Mazda Tribute for it's looks, it's desent gas mileage for an SUV and it's excellent safety record.
bang for the buck
rice, 03/26/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Paid 21,500 with factory step guards and rear bumper step up plate, and the dealer installed an fantastic after market power sunroof that looks and acts better than a factory one. This is a GREAT looking car.I dare you to tell me a ML320 looks 20k BETTER! This car has much gettie-up, the V6 200 horse zooms. I has a little apprehensiv about buying a car with anything to do with FORD name, but I prayfully took a shot. So far 13,000 trouble free miles. Had a lot a snow this winter in new york and the 2wd pulled through 24in of snow with only minamil trouble, I can image what the 4wd would do. Gas mileage I would is better than average for a V6
Love It
Carluvr, 05/19/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this SUV!! I'm used to the gear shift getting in the way of the radio controls, so i just use it to rest my hand on when I'm changing stations. The gas mileage is surprisingly good and I have no complaints!
We love our Trib!
MLewis, 05/31/2003
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Tribute is just about everything we were seeking in a small SUV. It is compact enough to manuever easily in traffic and in and out of tight parking, yet roomy enough for comfort, with a decent cargo capacity. It has a stylish, not-too-sporty look, and as much "get up and go" as we could ask for. When the time comes to replace our 2nd car, another Tribute will be a strong contender. ZOOM ZOOM!
Still Happy with Mazda Tribute
Chuck 1, 04/23/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It has been almost a year already and I am still happy with the Tribute. I had only minor warranty work done so far. Like the rubber coming loose in the dashboard and the sagging headliner, both were fix with no problem afterward.
2002 ES Model
Jake, 05/15/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I sent a request thru Mazda web site and dealer e-mailed the next day. I got a quote over the phone for below invoice. Bought it. Nice SUV.
My Tribute
Evelyn, 03/18/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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. I've only had it for 3 months but haven't 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.
awesome car
chris123, 03/18/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this is an awesome car!! i love the car!
2 years 5 months still very satisfied
MatthewM33, 03/20/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Tribute in October of 2000. At that time there were barely any other Tributes on the road. Im glad to say that even with more on the road its styling still stands out from all the other SUVs. The value for your dollar is incredible with Tribute. The only negatives I could say about the SUV are in the interior. The shift nob on my ES model blocks the radio volume, the cruise control on the steering wheel does not iluminate at night and the door has no padding to rest your arm.
Zoom-Zoom-Zoom
VanTastic, 03/21/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Tribute after test driving a Santa Fe. I liked the Hyudai's shifter, but the Tribute beat it hands down in power and ride. The only problem in 5k miles is getting the dealer to make a second key (they lost it)...dealer satisfaction was low, but car satisfaction is high. The ride is smooth and not to stiff. Gas mileage is fine for a vehicle this size. Even the wife creature likes it. I almost wish I got the 4wd, but it's not really necessary in Las Vegas. I'm thinking of adding the rear spoiler (to help keep the back window clean), mud flaps (should be standard on a SUV), and bug deflector. All-in-all I love my Trib. ZOOM-ZOOM-ZOOM
UNHAPPY..SAFETY ALERT
UNHAPPY2, 03/25/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
2002 Tribute
Chubart, 04/26/2008
2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The main problem I've had with this car are the trouble lights. It has been in two accidents and they've never quite fixed the wiring.
Good value
satisfied buyer, 04/02/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I did my research and found the Mazda had better handeling, overall finish the the liberty, better gas mileage and more kick than the Honda and Toyota I am very pleased.
Worst vehicle ever
Anonymous, 08/02/2023
2002 Mazda Tribute DX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Problems after problems. Misfiring, clogged catalytic converter, bad fuel pump. Everything on the car can break at any time with no sign of damage. Would never own a mazda again.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Vehicle
TributeGuy , 02/08/2025
2002 Mazda Tribute DX 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have now owned My 2002 Mazda Tribute coming up 13 years. It has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I’ve had no issues with the vehicle since owning and it’s been running fine since I bought it. Even though my Mazda Tribute is 21 years now it’s still an absolute beast of a vehicle. Well done Mazda for making a well built vehicle.
Bought it new, still have it, still runs great!
Neal Fitzgerald, 03/26/2025
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I spent 6 months renting SUVs for the weekend to find the right one… I rented them all. I was pretty unhappy with what was out there until the rental place didn’t have the car I rented and subbed a Mazda Tribute. Holy crap! This was BY FAR the best of them, not even close. I went out and bought a 2002 Tribute LX and I’ve still got it. It’s my backup vehicle now. Sporty, some real power, handles beautifully, I drove it from California to New York and back with a trailer and it did great. The LED lights on the radio panel a little flaky at times is my only complaint. She’s got 240,000 miles on her and STILL humming along. Love this vehicle.
Zoom Zoom Zoom of a SUV
John Bell, 06/13/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a fun car to drive, Handles well in all conditions. V6 offers great pickup. Very good gas MPG.
MZ Tribute
longrk, 04/02/2002
2002 Mazda Tribute DX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Drives like a car.