Owners filed 157 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the body and frame. It has been recalled 7 times.
Avoid One of the Mazda Tribute years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Mazda Tribute years to avoid →
When it fails
100000100,000 milesMedian miles at failure
130 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.
Most common 2004 Mazda Tribute problems
33 of the 157 complaints (21%) are about the body and frame.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Suspension
27
0
0
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
27
0
1
1
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
16
3
0
5
Air Bags · airbags
14
5
0
4
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission
9
0
0
0
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine
8
0
2
0
Vehicle Speed Control › Cables · throttle and acceleration
Defect. The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Risk. Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
Filed Apr 4, 2014109,000 vehiclesMazda North American Operations
Defect. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Tribute vehicles manufactured May 22, 2000, through December 19, 2003, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm.
Risk. A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace, free of charge. The recall began on May 29, 2014. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 7514D.
Filed Jul 27, 2012217,500 vehiclesMazda North American Operations
Defect. Mazda is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2006, and 2008, Tribute vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Risk. A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Remedy. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. Remedy parts are now available. The safety recall began on September 13, 2012. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-5500, option #6.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module07V157000
Filed Apr 10, 200795,300 vehiclesMazda Motor Corp
Defect. ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
Risk. AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MIGHT CAUSE AN ABS MALFUNCTION THAT WOULD ILLUMINATE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT, AND IN SOME CASES, THE MODULE MAY OVERHEAT RESULTING IN BURNING ODOR, SMOKE, AND/OR FIRE. THIS CONDITION COULD OCCUR EITHER WHEN THE VEHICLE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION OR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE ABS MODULE FOR MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS, AND REPAIR OR REPLACE THE HARNESS CONNECTOR AS APPROPRIATE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE CONNECTOR ON THE ABS MODULE AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE CORRODED OR DAMAGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 9, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder07E023000
Filed Mar 29, 200713,128 vehiclesCardone Industries, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
Risk. LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
Filed Dec 23, 200449,800 vehiclesMazda North American Operations
Defect. CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
Risk. IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
Filed Dec 10, 2004121,000 vehiclesMazda North American Operations
Defect. ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE MAY PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.
Risk. AN UNEXPECTED INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED MAY INCREASE STOPPING DISTANCE AND MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 28, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500, OPTION #4.
All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash4 injured1 killed
Filed Oct 31, 2025OR
I am submitting this formal complaint regarding a potential recall failure involving a 2005 Mazda Tribute driven by my fiancé, [XXX], who died following a crash on [XXX]. Mazda has opened Case #[XXX] in response to my inquiry, and I am requesting federal oversight of this investigation. Joey’s vehicle may have been affected by NHTSA Recall 12V357000, which addresses throttle body malfunction and unintended acceleration. Service records show that a dealership performed a recall service, but the parts used may have been ineffective or incomplete. The crash sequence—rear-ending a stopped vehicle followed by veering into oncoming traffic—matches known symptoms of this defect. I am requesting: •A formal review of Mazda’s handling of Recall 12V357000 •Verification of Joey’s VIN-specific recall compliance •Investigation into the dealership’s repair actions and part quality •Oversight of Mazda’s internal case (#[XXX]) and its findings This issue raises serious concerns about manufacturer accountability and public safety. I am submitting supporting documentation and service records for review. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air Bags
Filed Aug 15, 2024CA
The driver air bag light on the instrument panel has been illuminated since 2004, repair had been attempted several times but has failed. A bulletin has been sent by the manufacture to the dealership regarding steering wheel airbag light being illuminated giving a false warning, due to defective electrical wiring that cannot be repaired.
Structure
Filed May 8, 2023203,350 milesOH
The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stopped and noticed there was rust on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear shock had detached due to rust. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 203,350.
Air Bags
Filed Mar 2, 2023212,900 milesNV
The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 212,900.
Suspension
Filed Oct 6, 2022MI
Rear passenger side wheel well ,shock tower mount ,and sub frame .shock tower mount broke fell off hit the cement , chipped my rim and crushed my break lines i took it to lafountaine mazda and they have done an estimate for repairs and damage
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 5, 2021189,000 milesCT
The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle would accelerate unintendedly, and the brakes would fail during the unintended acceleration. The ABS and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the code reader was not able to read any codes. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the accelerator and brakes were repaired years prior and would not cover the cost for repair. The failure mileage was 189,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 16, 2021176,000 milesMN
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY WHEN I HEARD A NOISE LIKE THE ROOF WAS BEING RIPPED OFF. WHEN I PULLED OVER TO INSPECT I NOTICED THAT THE GLASS FROM MY SKYLIGHT WAS GONE. APPEARS THE GLUE DETERIORATED LETTING WINDOW BECOME LOOSE AND THEREFORE BLOWING OFF. GOOD THING DIDNT HIT ANY OTHER VEHICLES.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 15, 2020110,000 milesKY
DRIVING ONE DAY, THE CAR VEERED SUDDENLY INTO THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC LANE. FORTUNATELY NO CARS WERE THERE. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THE FRONT SUSPENSION WAS CRACKED AND THE CAR'S FRAME WAS RUSTED SO BADLY THE CAR COULD NOT BE JACKED UP.
Structure
Filed Sep 23, 2019181,000 milesMN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL THUMPING NOISE. THE CONTACT LATER NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS FRACTURED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED, THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1-2341658425. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 181,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 4, 201994,000 milesPA
I OWN A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE FROM NEW. IT CURRENTLY HAVE AROUND 94000 MILES, MECHANICALLY AND COSMETICALLY MAINTAINED. JUST RECENTLY I STARTED HEARING A BANGING NOISE FROM THE PASSENGER REAR AREA. I HAVE SOME STUFF IN THE CARGO AREA ON THAT SIDE SO I FIGURED IT WAS BOUNCING AROUND. SO I REMOVED EVERYTHING AND STILL HAD THE BANGING. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION I DISCOVERED A PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER ROTTING AWAY...THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE...IT PRESENTS MUCH DANGER TO ALL OCCUPANTS AND OTHER VEHICLES OCCUPANTS!!! THIS SHOULD NEVER BE AND SHOULD BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY BY THE MANUFACTURER BUT IT IS NOT. LOTS OF 2001 TO 2010 MAZDA TRIBUTES, FORD ESCAPES AND MERCURY MARINERS, ARE AFFECTED BY THIS PROBLEM. PLEASE HAVE THE MANUFACTURER MAKE GOOD ON THIS DEFECT.
Suspension
Filed Aug 29, 2019170,000 milesWI
RUSTED OFF RIGHT REAR STRUT MOUNT, REAR FRAME. CASUES BRAKE LINE TO SEVERE AND BRAKES TO GO OUT WHILE DRIVING. CAR IS NON-REPARABLE AND MUST BE TOTALLED. SEEMS LIKE THIS HAS HAPPENED ALOT AND THEY ALREADY HAD A RECALL ON FOR RUST ISSUE IN FRONT OF THE CAR. ?????
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 14, 2019238,564 milesMA
"TAKATA RECALL" MY CAR IS RUSTED UNDERNEATH FROM THE GAS PUMP AND UNDER. ON JULY 11TH, 2019 . I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE ON A STREET WHEN MY PASSENGER SIDE REAR STRUT CAME OUT FROM THE RUST. SOMETIMES AFTER PUTTING GAS IN MY CAR AND DRIVING OFF INSIDE OF MY CAR WILL START TO SMELL LIKE GAS. SINCE IT IS RUSTED UNDER AND AROUND.
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 9, 2019170,000 milesOH
RUSTED OFF RIGHT REAR STRUT MOUNT. DRIVING IN CITY, STARTED HEARING BANGING NOISE FROM RIGHT REAR.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 3, 2019137,501 milesTX
TAKATA RECALL WE WERE ON INTERSTATE WHEN WE HEARD A THUD AND OUR VEHICLE LOST POWER ALMOST CAUSING US TO BE REAR ENDED. WE STEERED OFF FREEWAY AND WHEN IT CAME TO A STOP IT WOULD NOT GO INTO ANY GEAR EXCEPT NEUTRAL. WE HAD IT TOWED TO HOUSE. AFTER LOTS OF RESEARCH IT SEEMS IT COULD BE THE TRANSMISSION MODULE OR PCM.
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 26, 201892,600 milesMA
UNDERCARRIAGE CORROSION HAS CAUSED TOTAL CORROSION TO RIGHT REAR WHEEL, WHICH AS CAUSED THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TO BREAK OFF. THE CORROSION IS NOT NORMAL AND SEEMS TO BE A MANUFACTURING DEFECT
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 2, 2018165,000 milesTX
WHEN DRIVING OR STOPPING AT RED LIGHT THE VEHICLE WILL SHUT OFF, BEFORE IT SHUTS OFF THE OIL LIGHT FLICKERS AND THERE'S A BURNING SMELL FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I TOOK IT TO MULTIPLE AUTO SHOPS AND HAVE GOT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS REPLACE, TRANSMISSION, MASS AIR FLOW AND A HOST OF OTHER THINGS AT A COSTLY PRICE AND THE PROBLEM IS NOT FITS. THERE IS SOMETHING TERRIBLE WRONG WITH THE 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE, I HAVE BEEN IN ALMOST 2 ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE FIX THIS!!
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 31, 2018155,000 milesNJ
TOP OF WHEEL WELL ON BOTH SIDES IN THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE IS ALMOST COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT - THIS IS AN ON GOING ISSUE AND APPARENTLY HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR A WHILE BUT IT IS HARD TO NOTICE SINCE IT IS BEHIND THE CLOSED DOOR THAT IT IS APPARENT AND SINCE I AM USUALLY DRIVING, I WOULD NOT HAVE NOTICED IT. I WAS HAVING MY FLEX PIPE REPLACED AND HAVE BEEN NOTICING SOME ANGING IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. AT THIS POINT, I AM ASSUMING IT IS COMING FROM THE BODY ROTT WHICH I BELIEVE TO BE A DRIVING HAZARD AT THIS POINT. I SAW THAT SOME VEHICLES IN 2004 AND PRIOR WERE RECALLED FOR THIS ISSUE, BUT APPARENTLY NOT MINE PR MADZA. APPARENTLY IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN!
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 7, 2018170,000 milesNY
SUBFRAME CORRODED AND A PIECE OF IT FELL OFF COMPROMISING THE AXLE, WHEEL BEARING, AND SEIZED THE RIGHT REAR ROTER. UPON MAZDA TAKING THE TRUCK TO REPAIR THE SUBFRAME THEY NOTED THAT THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE HAD CORRODED RIGHT WITH THE SUBFRAME BEYOND REPAIR. SO FAR I HAVE BEEN DENIED A LOANER VEHICLE EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A CURRENT RECALL ON SUBFRAME FOR CORROSION. I AM STILL WAITING TO SEE WHAT THE OUTCOME IS GOING TO BE. I'VE MISSED 2 DAYS OF WORK ALREADY DUE TO THIS
Engine
Filed Feb 19, 2018MO
ENGINE WILL NOT TURN OVER. GAS IS NOT BEING CIRCULATED
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 7, 2017119,364 milesWV
ADDING MY TRIBUTE TO THE LIST OF REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK/STRUT RUSTING THROUGH THE BODY..VERY DANGEROUS
Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Dec 4, 2017165,000 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE SUBFRAME FRACTURED. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE CONTACT TO MOMENTARILY LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT REGAINED CONTROL AND BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A STOP. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SOME MINOR BRUISING AND SWELLING TO THE LOWER PORTION OF THE BODY, BUT DID NOT RECALL HOW THEY OCCURRED. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT AT THE SCENE AND RETRIEVED BY AN EYEWITNESS. THE CONTACT LATER VERIFIED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS FRACTRURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN HOME VERY SLOWLY. THE LOCAL DEALER (OAK LAWN MAZDA, 6750 95TH ST, OAK LAWN, IL, 60453) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN VERY SLOWLY TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME HAD FRACTURED. A REMEDY WAS NOT PROVIDED DUE TO THE DEALER AWAITING A RESPONSE FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THEY WOULD NOT COVER THE REPAIR COST BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS REMEDIED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V174000 (STRUCTURE) ON JULY 11, 2014, AND THE CROSS BRACE (BRACKET) WAS REINFORCED AT THAT TIME. THE REMEDY FAILED TO RECTIFY THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 165,000. *BF CONSUMER STATED ALMOST GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT DUE TO DEALER CJ WILSON NOT REPLACING THE SUB-FRAME AND ONLY REINFORCING IT WITH A BRACKET. UPDATED 9/13/18*JB
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 18, 2017130,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE LOST POWER WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND PARKED THE VEHICLE IN A NEARBY PARKING LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 7, 2017155,826 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK MOUNT HAD DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CALLED AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE AN APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,826. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
MY 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE HAS LESS THAN 100,000 MILES AND THIS PAST WEEK WHILE LEAVING A LOCAL MALL THERE SEEMED TO BE MORE ROAD NOISE THAN USUAL COMING FROM THE REAR. A VISUAL INSPECTION OF THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL REVEALED THAT THE TOP OF THE STRUT, ALONG WITH A PORTION OF THE METAL MOUNT WAS BROKEN AWAY FROM THE BODY. THE MOUNT HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY FROM THE WHEEL WELL EXPOSING THE INTERIOR OF THE CARGO AREA. MOST OF MY DRIVING IS DONE EITHER IN TOWN OR HIGHWAY. IT IS VERY DISAPPOINTING THAT MAZDA (AND FORD) HAS FAILED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS POOR ENGINEERING. I HOPE IT DOESN'T TAKE A FATALITY OR INJURY FOR EITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR THE GOVERNMENT TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE.
Suspension
Filed Sep 7, 2016140,000 milesNJ
MY 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE (JUST LIKE A FORD ESCAPE) HAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT ON THE PASSENGER BACK WHEEL WELL.MY HUSBAND WAS DOING ABOUT 20 MPH AND HEARD THE LOUD BANG! THE SHOCK MOUNTING IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY AND BANGS AGAINST THE CAR AND PROVIDES NO STABILIZING CONTROL. I FOUND A BUNCH OF COMPLAINTS AFTER I GOOGLED IT - ALL RIGHT REAR! THE FRONT WAS RECALLED BUT WHY NOT REAR? OUR MECHANIC SAID IT WAS BASICALLY TOTALED. AND GOOD LUCK TRYING TO FIND SOMEONE TO FIX IT! IT CAN NOT BE DRIVEN AT ALL! CANT SELL IT OR TRADE IT IN! AND WE CANT FIND ANYONE TO TOUCH IT! MAZDA'S RESPONSE WAS THEY CAN HOOK US UP WITH A SALESMAN TO PURCHASE ANOTHER MAZDA. REALLY?????????????
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 26, 2016175,000 milesOH
THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER BROKE AWAY FROM THE BODY ,CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO JERK HARD RIGHT ,AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 60 MILES PER HOUR,THIS ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT, I CROSSED INTO THE MIDDLE LANE CUTTING OFF THE AUTO IN THAT LANE . HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR THE DRIVING SKILLS OFF THE OTHER DRIVER AND MYSELF THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT. THE SHOCK THEN TORE THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE UP CAUSING A FLAT. WHEN I CALLED MAZDA THEY SAID IT WAS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE AND HAD NO PLANS TO RECALL THE VEHICLE FOR THIS MOST COMMON PROBLEM.THIS VEHICLE HAS A RECALL FOR RUST ON THE FRONT FRAME MOUNT BUT NOT ON THE RUST PROBLEMS IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLES. I FEEL THEY USED INFERIOR METAL IN THE ENTIRE AUTOMOBILE AND SHOULD REPAIR THIS VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM.
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 21, 201693,165 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE HAVING THE VEHICLE INSPECTED, THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WAS SEVERELY CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V174000 (STRUCTURE). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,165.
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 12, 2016101,000 milesNY
2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE, APPROX. 101,000 MILES. COMPLETE FAILURE/RUST-THROUGH OF REAR, PASSENGER-SIDE WHEEL WELL CAUSING SEPARATION OF SHOCK/STRUT FROM THE FRAME. AS INDICATED IN THE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS I HAVE READ, EXPERIENCED LOUD CLUNK AND SWAYING OF THE VEHICLE, BROUGHT TO OUR LONG-TIME MECHANIC WHO INDICATED HE HAD NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT AND BASED ON AGE/CONDITION THERE IS NO WAY THIS SHOULD HAVE OCCURRED. BROUGHT VEHICLE IN TO MAZDA DEALERSHIP AFTER SPEAKING TO MAZDA CUSTOMER CARE (REP INDICATED THAT RECALL FOR SUB-FRAME CORROSION SHOULD ADDRESS THIS) ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED BUT CAR WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE DUE TO THE CORROSION AND SHOCK SEPARATION. WHEN I CALLED MAZDA BACK AND ASKED HOW IT IS POSSIBLE TO ISSUE A RECALL ON A KNOWN ISSUE FOR RUST BUT ONLY ADDRESS ONE CONTACT POINT ON THE FRAME AS, CLEARLY, THE ENTIRE FRAME IS MADE/COATED WITH THE SAME MATERIALS, WAS ADVISED BASICALLY NOT THEIR PROBLEM AND IT IS POSSIBLE A FUTURE RECALL COULD ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. THIS IS ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE AND AS A CURRENT OWNER OF A 2014 MAZDA 6 (AND PAST OWNERS OF 6 OTHER MAZDA'S) I CAN NOT UNDERSTAND HOW A SAFETY ISSUE SUCH AS THIS IS NOT BEING ADDRESSED. AS EVIDENCED BY THIS WEBSITE AND MULTIPLE OTHERS, THIS ISSUE AFFECTS 2001-2006 MAZDA TRIBUTES (& FORD ESCAPES) AND WAS ALREADY ACKNOWLEDGED TO BE A DEFECT IN THE MATERIALS USED AS EVIDENCED IN RECALL# 14V-174. EXCESSIVE CORROSION IS NOT LIMITED TO A SINGLE ATTACHMENT POINT ON THE FRAME, TO EVEN IMPLY THAT IT
Structure › Body
Filed May 31, 2016132,000 milesNY
RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH. THIS MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION FAILURE AND POSSIBLE LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE. PHOTOS OF EXTENSIVE RUST CONDITION WIDELY AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed May 27, 2016PR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA ZH98 (NA). WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE DRIVER CRASHED INTO A GUARDRAIL. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A BROKEN ARM THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DRIVER'S RESIDENCE. THE BODY DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 21, 201698,000 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMALLY LOUD NOISE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS SEVERELY RUSTED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 15, 2016PA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V174000 (STRUCTURE) AND THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO SUPPLY THE REMEDY PARTS FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS DUE TO RECEIVE AN INSPECTION AND MAY NOT PASS DUE TO EXTENSIVE PREMATURE RUST AND CORROSION THAT PROGRESSED FOR MONTHS BEFORE NOTIFICATION OF THE MANUFACTURERS RECALL. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED AND WERE UNABLE TO PROVIDE A SPECIFIC TIME FRAME TO PROVIDE THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN OF WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD BE REPAIRED. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Feb 24, 2016155,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED EVEN WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED NUMEROUS TIMES. IN ORDER TO REDUCE SPEED, THE GEAR LEVER WAS SHIFTED INTO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. THE ENGINE REVVED, BUT NOT RAPIDLY. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. IN 2015, THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V583000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE REMEDY WAS INSUFFICIENT AND FAILED TO CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Feb 24, 2016150,000 milesMN
A VERY LOAD BANGING SOUND IS COMING FROM MY RIGHT PASSENGER WHEEL WELL AREA. IT APPEARS THE SHOCK-ABSORBER MOUNTING LOCATION IS RUSTED AWAY AND BREAKING OFF. I CAN SEE INSIDE MY CAR THROUGH THE SPEAKER GRILL NOW. FIRST OCCURED WHEN THE CAR WAS IN MOTION AND DRIVING OVER A ROAD WITH SMALL POTHOLES. THE REST OF THE UNDERSIDE OF THE CAR SEEMS OK.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 15, 2016IA
MAZDA RECALL # 1904D. MAZDA HAS A RECALL FOR UNITS BUILT FROM APRIL 17, 200 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 11, 2002. MY UNIT WAS BUILT IN 2004 BUT HAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEMS AS THE VEHICLES IN THIS RECALL. NO ONE AT MAZDA CAN ( OR WON'T ) TELL ME THE REASON THAT UNITS IN LATER DATES SUCH AS MINE ARE NOT IN THIS RECALL EVEN THO IT DOES WHAT THE RECALL WAS SUPPOSE TO FIX AND WILL NOT FIX MINE WITH-OUT A CHARGE. THE UNIT DIE WHEN COMING UP TO A STOP SIGN OR SLOWING DOWN. THIS HAS HAPPENED REPEATEDLY TO MY DAUGHTER WHO DRIVES THIS CAR TO THE POINT WHERE SHE IS AFRAID TO DRIVE IT. SHE HAS BEEN ALMOST REAR-ENDED REPEATED TIMES. HERE IS WHAT THE RECALL SAYS. RECALL SUMMARY: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 DURATEC ENGINES , DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL. HAZARD: SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR. REMEDY: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) WITH THE APPROPRIATE CALIBRATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 3, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500. ADDITIONAL INFO: MAZDA RECALL NO. 1904D.ALSO, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension
Filed Jan 12, 201694,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS EXCESSIVE RUST ON THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK STRUT MOUNT, WHICH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 27, 2015153,546 milesMI
THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAS EXCESSIVE CORROSION THROUGH THE FRAME OF MY VEHICLE. THE CORROSION HAS SPLIT MY FRAME IN HALF AND LEFT WHOLES SURROUNDING THE SPLIT. MY SHOCK TOWER IS EXPOSED AND CORRODED MAKING IT UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE REAR DRIVER SIDE IS SPLITTING IN THE SAME EXACT PLACE.THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD AND OBVIOUS DEFECT. DRIVING STRAIGHT DOWN A DIRT ROAD AT 35 MPH (APPROX.) A LOUD SNAP AND DUST ROLLING THING THROUGH THE REAR SPEAKER MOUNTED ON THE WHEEL WELL. I THEN PULLED OVER AND INSPECTED THE CAR AND FOUND THAT IT WAS ALL RUSTED OUT.
Suspension
Filed Nov 24, 2015135,000 milesMN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
Structure
Filed Nov 19, 2015NY
2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE SUBFRAME CORROSION ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. ALSO, THE CONSUMER IS SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR AND THE CLEANING OF THE THROTTLE BODY. *JB
Suspension
Filed Oct 31, 201591,000 milesWI
IN RESEARCHING THE NHTSA WEBSITE IT IS CLEAR THAT THIS IS NOT A UNIQUE COMPLAINT. THE VEHICLE HAS 91,000 MILES. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT HAS COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION. THIS IS THE ONLY AREA ON THIS VEHICLE WHERE SUCH EXTENSIVE CORROSION EXISTS. NUMEROUS SOURCES HAVE STATED THAT THE DAMAGE TO THIS VEHICLE IS IRREPARABLE, AND THAT FURTHER USE OF THIS VEHICLE WOULD BE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS. NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS FOR THIS DEFECT INDICATE THAT IT IS TIME FOR THIS MANUFACTURING AND DESIGN DEFECT TO BE INVESTIGATED. #10669545
Suspension
Filed Oct 5, 2015120,000 milesME
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY AT 40 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL SNAPPING SOUND. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED, BUT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO STOP AND THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR WHERE THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE SUB FRAME, CV JOINT, AND THE LOWER CONTROL ARM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO MAKE A VIBRATING MOTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 28, 2015MA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE HAD AN ABNORMAL LOUD SOUND. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK SUPPORT IN THE WHEEL WELL HAD ROTTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Structure › BodyFire
Filed Sep 16, 2015140,000 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT MENTIONED A BURNING ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND DISCOVERED THAT PART OF THE FRAME WAS FRACTURED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 9, 2015108,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED AND CORRODED. IN ADDITION, THE BRACKET WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.
Suspension
Filed Aug 27, 2015140,250 milesMI
MY 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE (JUST LIKE A FORD ESCAPE) HAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT ON THE PASSENGER BACK WHEEL WELL. THE SUSPENSION IS AFFECTED AS WELL AS THE SHOCK MOUNTING IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY AND BANGS AGAINST THE CAR AND PROVIDES NO STABILIZING CONTROL. THE REPAIRS ARE GOING TO BE VERY COSTLY AND I FOUND NUMEROUS REPORTS OF THE SAME RUST OUT AND RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION FAILURE ON MAZDA TRIBUTES AND FORD ESCAPE IN THE 2001-2005 MODEL YEARS. MAZDA AND FORD CONDUCTED A RECALL ON TRIBUTES AND ESCAPES DUE TO RUST OUT OF RIGHT FRONT SUSPENSION. THE SAME IS IMMEDIATELY NEEDED ON THE RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION. THE LEFT REAR SUSPENSION APPEARS FINE AND DOES NOT SHOW ANY OF THE SAME RUST PROBLEM.
Wheels
Filed Aug 4, 2015142,631 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA TRIBUTE. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD ABNORMAL SOUND. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL AND THE SHOCK TOWER WERE CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,631. MA 10/25/15
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 27, 2015151,523 milesMD
RIGHT REAR SHOCK HAS BROKEN THROUGH WHEEL PANEL AND CAN BE SEEN FROM THE TRUNK AREA. LEFT REAR SIDE HAS STRESS FRACTURES AND I ASSUME WILL ALSO BREAK THROUGH EVENTUALLY. TOOK CAR TO BODY SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT THE WHEEL PANEL HAS RUSTED THROUGH AND THAT IT WOULD BE TOO EXPENSIVE TO FIX BECAUSE TO PROPERLY FIX THE CAR ONE WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE WHEEL PANEL AND ANY OTHER METAL AREA ON BOTH SIDES OF THE CAR THAT IS RUSTED. IS NHTSA WILLING TO TAKE THE CAR TO TEST THE UNDERCOATING AND METAL TO DETERMINE IF THEY MEET PROPER STANDARDS? I WENT ONLINE AND HAVE SEEN THAT THIS SAME PROBLEM WITH OTHER MADZA TRIBUTES AND EVEN FORD ESCAPES. CAN YOU HELP?
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 14, 201597,473 milesAL
I WAS DRIVING AND ALL OF A SUDDEN MY CAR BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN AND NOT GO FOWARD AND HESITATED TO GO BACKWARDS. I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO SHOP. THE SHOP MACHANIC INFORMED ME THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS BUILT WITHOUT A PRESSURE RELEASE VALVE,AND THAT IS WHAT CAUSE IT TO MALFUNCTION. AND I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY YOU DON'T HAVE TRANSMISSION IN DROPDOWN BOX OF AFFECTED PARTS. MA 10/5 UPDATED 11/16/2017*CN
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 12, 2015142,000 milesMD
I WAS SLOWING DOWN TO STOP BEHIND ANOTHER CAR AT A RED LIGHT AND MY CAR SLOWED DOWN BUT DID NOT FULLY STOP. I BARELY BUMPED THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME AT PROBABLY LESS THAN 5 MILES PER HOUR BUT MY AIR BAGS WENT OFF. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO MY CAR OTHER THAN THE AIR BAGS EXPLODING AND MY INSURANCE COMPANY WANTS TO TOTAL MY CAR BECAUSE OF THE AIR BAGS EXPLODING. I HAVE SECOND DEGREE BURNS AND A CUT FROM THE AIR BAG.
Complaints 1-50 of 157, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 3, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.