Inefficient Heating and Cooling in a 2000 Mazda Tribute: Seeking Advice and Mechanic Recommendations

Hey there, I drive a 2003 Mazda 626, so not far off from your Tribute. Faced almost a similar issue couple of months back. Turned out to be the electric auxiliary heater that was causing the fuss. Yeah, it's a serious glitch, but quite manageable. Honestly, I ain't the best at car stuff, so I took mine to this local garage, let's call it Joe's. They diagnosed the problem right away and had the right part in stock. Was a pinch surprised how quickly they turned it around. They explained that they simply had to replace the auxiliary heater with a new one. Seems like it's pretty common for these old Mazdas. Hope this helps and good luck getting it sorted!

Heyo, Your story sounds all too familiar with my Tribute. Still, good to hear you've had some luck with the heater issue. Just curious, though, if you wouldn't mind sharing, how much did Joe's put you back for the whole operation? And since the fix, has anything else popped up that should worry us Tribute owners? Cheers!

Hey! Ah, the age-old question about costs, right? Well, I hope you're sitting down when you read this. Fixing the electric auxiliary heater ran me around 350.00 €. A tad pricey, I know, but remember that's including the cost of the new part and labor. But hey, since then the heating's been smooth sailing. And let me tell you, it's worth every penny not listening to the missus complain about the cold. As for your second question, not a sniff of fresh trouble since the heater was fixed. I guess the old Mazda has still got some life in her yet. So, no need for any extra worry lines. Good luck with your Tribute!

Hey, thanks for getting back! The price-tag did indeed make me wince a bit, but I suppose that's the cost for comfort and patching things up, eh? Really appreciate the information, really helps to have a rough idea about it before heading to the garage. As for the misfortune-free ride post the fix, that's very comforting to hear. Guess I got myself a little weekend project to sort out the heater and hopefully, that should keep things toasty again. Thanks for all your input. You're a lifesaver! Cheers!