Catalytic Converter Design Destroyed Engine

10.0

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
84,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (1 reports)
2004 Mazda Tribute exhaust system problems

exhaust system problem

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2004 Mazda Tribute Owner Comments

problem #1

Aug 312018

Tribute LX 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 84,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Problem started as what I thought was electrical issue after power wash (from a distance) the engine. Code P306 showed up on 2 occasions after heavy rain followed up w/"drying time" so electrical made sense. Misfiring rough running seemed to straighten out.

After a medium length trip out of town, my daughter noted low fuel and stopped at a Regional brand Truck stop for fuel. Tribute drove well for 20 miles. Upon trying to drive home the following day the vehicle started running poorly missing & barely idling, but we assumed based on history after the engine would warm up it would "dry out" and run strait .. no luck. After a 65 mile tow home, replacing plugs & coil packs & associated gaskets (150- parts + $250 labor) still no improvement. Next association was the ECU may have failed due to reports of Coil Pack failure overloading the ECU.

Dealer furnished w/refurb ECU to program, but reported that existing unit seemed to be working & accessible. Dealer asked to do further diagnostic, such as compression test & visual scope.

Just received dx that 1 manifold Catalytic converters (total of 3) melted down & particles have been (inter tech note per factory rep) sucked in through the exhaust manifold and scored the cylinders. Compression 4/5/6 less than 75 vs cylinders 1/2/3 all 240+ pounds.

Looking into engine replacement & labor bill of 4600- at 1st examination.

- redeemed, Elkhorn, US

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