Drivers of 2005-08 Tribute SUVs with automatic transmissions built between Aug. 1, 2004 and Feb. 15, 2007 may come into your store complaining of a stall when the truck comes to a stop or when it's shifted from park to drive or park to reverse.
According to Mazda, the problem can be intermittent, and usually occurs after an extended drive. Furthermore, the Check Engine light probably won't come on when the stall occurs and no trouble codes will be stored in PCM memory. A torque converter stuck in the lock-up mode is the likely cause of the condition.
To make the right diagnosis, connect your scanner, look at the data stream and pay attention to PID TC_SLIPACT as the stall occurs. If the slip in the transmission is greater than 20 rpm in Drive or Reverse, you're dealing with an engine problem. If the slip is less than 20 rpm, however, the converter clutch is locked. Replacing the torque converter with an improved unit, part No. ZZCA-19-100, should eliminate further trouble.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].