The 2004 Mazda Tribute has 3 recalls, the most serious being a throttle that can stick wide open on V6 models, making the vehicle accelerate uncontrollably and very difficult to bring to a stop.
The throttle issue affects Tributes equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine, where insufficient clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector can jam the throttle when the accelerator is fully or nearly fully pressed, regardless of whether cruise control is in use. On the structural side, the lower control arm on certain vehicles can separate from the frame, causing an abrupt and significant loss of steering control. This concern is geographically scoped to vehicles originally sold or currently registered in a number of northern and midwestern states where road salt and corrosion are common factors. There is also a door concern: if the rear liftgate is left in the unlocked position, the latch may not hold during a hard collision, allowing the hatch to swing open.
At a glance
What can fail
The lower control arm attachment point at the front of the vehicle may corrode excessively, potentially affecting suspension stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace to prevent further corrosion and strengthen the attachment.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The engine cover sits too close to the speed control cable connector. When you press the accelerator pedal fully or nearly fully, the cable can get stuck, causing the throttle to remain open.
What the fix does
Dealers will increase the clearance between the engine cover and speed control cable connector at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear liftgate latch may not hold securely during a severe collision if left unlocked, risking the liftgate opening unexpectedly.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod and attachment clip.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
