My '02 3.0 is a gutless dog. All the economy of a V8 with the power of a 4 cylinder! Hoo-ray!

And I think it is actually running well. (?? At least it runs very smooth??)

I get an average of about 18mpg, mostly hwy driving. If I am doing 70mph and start up a slight grade, I lose around 5mph or so. If I have it on Cruise control, it has to downshift and rev incredibly high just to maintain 70.

I like the car in general, but damn, this thing is a powerless, gutless car for sure.

I had a trailer hitch receiver installed - I wonder if there is enough power to tow anything more than a child's toy wagon?

If anyone has suggestions, or if this sounds like there is a problem, PLEASE let me know what to look at.

I also have that damn P0136 code, even though I did replace the O2 sensor.

 

Spoke to my friend, who is a long time mechanic and told him about my issues. He said "we'll take a look at it, but for the most part it IS a pretty gutless SUV".

That was funny as hell, and kinda what I figured.

 

Hello Maz....
This is just a shot in the dark. These trucks are notorious for having 'Cat" failures/blockage in one or more of the three. Although many other things could cause power loss. You might check for vacuum leaks as well.
Perhaps others here will chime in. Good luck..Let us know if you find the problem....Bob

 

Hopefully I will have a Tech check it out soon. I HOPE there is something wrong with it. It would be sad if this is normal performance.

 

First losing 5 mph on a Tribute isn't bad, it even happens to me in my wagon on a bit steeper incline.
If your exhaust looks like mine you need to do some custom work!
READ: https://www.mazdaforum.com/forum/maz...-design-28940/

Change all your plugs and put some real ign coils on like Accel, or MSD.

Clean MAF, throttle body, egr.

3.0 litre is not very big for zoom zoom, and i'm sure your tranny is getting tired.

SEARCH!

Try the new MSD Coyote coil # 8248: Blaster Coil 5.0L Coyote - 8248

Use iridium plugs.

 

Is that the P/N for the 3.0 V6? Will check them out.

 

New Walker brand rear main Catalytic converter installed and BAZINGA, I have a completely different car.

No longer a "gutless dog"!