Our 2003 Mazda Tribute has been through 3 alternators in 130,000 kilometers. After doing some research it seems a fair number of other Tributes had destroyed one or two alternators. This was brought to the attention of Mazda when dealing with this issue. They have tried to blame other things such as added on electrical devices which we do not have. The bottom line is that the alternator is under the engine and right beside the exhaust. It gets soaked in rain, then fried dry. Like soaking your hair dryer and then baking it dry in the oven. Mazda has avoided taking any responsibility for this problem despite being shown evidence that one exists. It cost over $500. X 3 Canadian per fix for these because of the 4 hour labor charge. They have to take the front end on the passengers side out to get at the thing.

ZOOM--ZOOM away from another Mazda!!!