Review: Mazda J14.I Tribute (2001-03)

Overview

Released in February 2001, the Mazda J14 Series I (J14.I) Tribute was a five seat, compact SUV. Manufactured in Hofu, Japan, the J14.I Tribute was available with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission (Limited variants) or a 3.0-litre petrol V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission (Limited, Classic and Luxury variants).

The J14 Tribute was jointly developed with Ford – for the closely-related Escape – and based on the GF 626 platform. As such, the Tribute had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension. Furthermore, the Tribute was 4395 mm long, 1800 mm wide, 1710 mm tall and had a 2620 mm long wheelbase.

4WD system

The Tribute had an on-demand four-wheel drive system (Mazda’s ‘Rotary Blade Coupling’) which utilised a viscous coupling. In normal conditions, drive was directed to the front wheels; if front traction was lost, however, up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque could be redirected to the rear axle. The Tribute also had an instrument panel switch which could activate the electro-magnetic differential coupling to provide permanent four-wheel drive.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the entry-level Tribute Limited included dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners; the 3.0-litre V6 Limited variants added ABS and electronic brake force distribution, while the Luxury variant was also equipped with front seat-mounted side airbags (with head protection).

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , a 2001 Tribute fitted with a 3.0-litre V6 engine – and equipped with dual front airbags – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 24.67. In the offset crash test, protection from serious leg injury was poor for the driver as the footwell deformed. In the side impact test, however, the Tribute received a maximum score.

Features

Standard features for the Tribute Limited included a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, remote central locking, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, power windows and mirrors, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, cargo cover and an immobiliser.

The Tribute Classic was further equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, a six-stack CD player, cruise control, front fog lights, roof rails and sunroof. Beyond this, the Tribute Luxury was differentiated by its leather seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

2002 Tribute Traveller pack

In October 2002, a ‘Traveller’ pack was released for each of the three variants. The Traveller editions added a heavy-duty tow bar for loads up to 1600 kg (including a wiring harness and tow ball), a remote-controlled alarm, luggage divider, headlight covers, bonnet protector, side steps, rear bumper protector, floor mats, door scuff plates and cargo liner.

2003: Tribute update

The Tribute range underwent a minor update for 2003: mudflaps were made standard across the range, while the Classic and Luxury variants received an upgraded interior. A Sport edition of the Limited variant was also released; compared to the standard Limited variant, the Limited Sport added 16-inch alloy wheels, velour upholstery, front fog lights cruise control, driver’s seat height and lumbar adjustment and roof rails.

Review: Mazda J14.II Tribute (2004-06)

Overview

Released in January 2004, the J14 Series II (J14.II) Tribute introduced a revised range, improved safety equipment and greater refinement. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine was replaced with a 2.3-litre unit and a four-speed automatic transmission was made standard across the range.

Safety equipment

Compared to its J14.I predecessor, safety equipment for the J14.II Tribute was improved with ABS, electronic brake force distribution, front seat-mounted side airbags (with head protection) and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters fitted as standard.

Features

Standard features were extended to include front fog lights, while all V6 models were fitted with steering wheel audio and cruise controls. The Tribute Limited Sport model continued, distinguished by its alloy wheels, roof rails and lidded storage bin between the front seats.

Review: Mazda J14.III Tribute (2006-08)

Overview

Released in July 2006, the J14 Series III (J14.III) Tribute introduced a revised range, improved equipment levels and subtle cosmetic changes. The Limited and Classic variants were effectively replaced by a single, unnamed variant, though the Luxury continued.

Visually, the J14.III Tribute could be identified by its mesh grille, clear-finish headlights, revised front bumper with integrated guard and new bonnet. Inside, there was a new floor-mounted gear lever and redesigned centre dashboard panel.

Safety equipment

Safety equipment was improved with the centre rear seat fitted with a lap-sash belt and adjustable headrest; furthermore, the front disc brakes were enlarged and the rear brakes were upgraded to discs (previously drums).

Features

Standard Tribute features were extended to include a CD player (six-stack for Luxury variants) with MP3-compatibility, climate control air conditioning and a 12 volt power outlet.

Related links

• Features: Mazda J14.III Tribute (July 2006)
• Specifications: Mazda J14.III Tribute (July 2006)
• Wikipedia.org: Mazda J14 Tribute

Recalls: Mazda J14 Tribute

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Mazda J14 Tribute

• In October 2001, a recall was issued for Mazda J14 Tribute vehicles due to a potential fuel leak from the Fuel Delivery Module seal, situated in the fuel tank (PRA 2001/5035).
• In October 2002, a recall was issued for Mazda J14 Tribute vehicles due to a brake lamp switch malfunction which could render the brake lamps inoperative (PRA 2002/5761).
• In February 2004, a recall was issued for Mazda J14 Tribute vehicles due to front seatbelt stalk buckles which may not latch properly (PRA 2004/6819).
• In November 2012, a recall was issued for Mazda Tribute models fitted with 3.0-litre V6 engines, factory-fitted cruise control and available for sale from 12 December 2000 to 6 February 2007. In these vehicles, inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the cruise control cable could allow the engine to be stuck at full power when the accelerator pedal is almost or almost-fully depressed – this could result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle. This risk exists regardless of whether or not cruise control is being used (PRA 2012/13362). The recall applied to vehicles in the following VIN ranges:
  • JM0 CU081* 11 100009 – 107092;
  • JM0 CU081* 21 107110 – 114027;
  • JM0 CU081* 31 114061 – 121213;
  • JM0 CU081Y 41 200006 – 211395;
  • JM0 YU081* 11 100008 – 107085;
  • JM0 YU081* 21 107093 – 114024;
  • JM0 YU081* 31 114038 – 121262;
  • LFA C* **VX 62 000002 – 001501; and,
  • LFA C* **VX 72 001502 – 001541.

Problems and faults: Mazda J14 Tribute

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Mazda J14 Tribute: camshaft ticking noise

In July 2007, Mazda USA issued service bulletin 01-031/07 for Mazda J14 Tribute vehicles with 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines. In these vehicles, a ticking noise may be heard from the left bank cylinder head while the engine was running at its normal operating temperature. For the repair procedure, please refer to the service bulletin.

Mazda J14 Tribute: other problems and faults

• For Mazda Tribute models fitted with the 3.0-litre V6 engine, the ‘low coolant’ warning light may illuminate because the float in the coolant recovery tank sinks; a revised float assembly was subsequently released.
• For Mazda Tribute models with automatic transmissions, harsh or late upshifts may occur after the transmission has been repaired due to a problem with the turbine-shaft speed sensor.
• For automatic models, the engine may stall when coming to rest after cruising at highway speeds because the lockup torque converter fails to release.
• The air conditioning compressor front seal may leak, causing a loss of refrigerant.
• The fuel tank may fill slowly and the ‘check engine’ light may illuminate if the fuel tank vent line becomes clogged by debris or, potentially, ice. If so, the line needs to be cleared and possibly relocated to prevent recurrences.
• A whining noise from the front of the vehicle when traveling at 30-70km/h may require the half-shafts to be replaced with units that have dampers.
• Clunking or rattling noise from the front of the vehicle may be due to a problem with the power steering return line; a revised hose was subsequently released.
• A high-pitched squeaking noise from the rear suspension may be caused by the shock absorber bushings moving out of position.
• For early Tribute vehicles, some heater cores experienced recurring failures that were attributed to electrolysis. If so, the coolant may need to be flushed and replaced, while additional ground connections to the engine may also be required.
• If the door handle was pulled while trying to unlock the door with the remote locking, the doors would not open and new door latches may need to be installed.

Released in February 2001, the Mazda J14 Series I (J14.I) Tribute was a five seat, compact SUV. Manufactured in Hofu, Japan, the J14.I Tribute was available with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission (Limited variants) or a 3.0-litre petrol V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission (Limited, Classic and Luxury variants)… Read full Mazda Tribute review

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Images: Mazda J14.II Tribute (2004-06)

Released in January 2004, the Mazda J14 Series II (J14.II) Tribute introduced a revised range, improved safety equipment and greater refinement. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine was replaced with a 2.3-litre unit and a four-speed automatic transmission was made standard across the range.

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Images: Mazda J14.III Tribute (2006-08)

Released in July 2006, the Mazda J14 Series III (J14.III) Tribute introduced a revised range, improved equipment levels and subtle cosmetic changes. The Limited and Classic variants were effectively replaced by a single, unnamed variant, though the Luxury continued. The Mazda J14.III Tribute could be identified by its mesh grille, clear-finish headlights, revised front bumper with integrated guard and new bonnet. Inside, there was a new floor-mounted gear lever and redesigned centre dashboard panel.

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ANCAP: 2001 Mazda Tribute crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing, a 2001 Tribute fitted with a 3.0-litre V6 engine – and equipped with dual front airbags – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 24.67. For further information about this testing, please go to the ANCAP website.