Page 9 of 288
Vehicle Symbol Glossary
Power Windows
Power Window Lockout
Personal Alarm System
FeatureEngine Oil
Engine CoolantEngine Coolant
Temperature
Do Not Open When HotBattery
Avoid Smoking, Flames,
or SparksBattery Acid
Explosive GasFan Warning
Power Steering FluidMaintain Correct Fluid
LevelMAX
MIN
Emission SystemEngine Air Filter
Powertrain MalfunctionSpeed Control
Passenger Compartment
Air FilterJack
Check Fuel CapLow Tire Pressure
Warning
2006 Tribute(j14)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Introduction
9
Page 234 of 288

However, Mazda recommends that all maintenance services be performed
at the recommended time or miles (kilometers) period to ensure
long-term reliability. Refer toFuel filterin theMaintenance and
Specificationschapter for fuel filter replacement requirements.
*2 If the vehicle is operated under any of the following conditions,
change the spark plugs every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or shorter.
a) Repeated short-distance driving.
b) Extended periods of idling or low-speed operation.
c) Driving for long periods in cold temperatures or extremely humid
climates.
*3 If this component has been submerged in water, the oil should be
changed.
*4 The wheel lug nuts must be retightened to the proper specifications
at 500 miles (800 km) of new vehicle operation, at any wheel change, or
at any other time the wheel lug nuts have been loosened. Refer toWheel
Lug Nut Torque Specificationin theTires, Wheels and Loading
chapter for the proper lug nut torque specification.
OWNER MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The owner or a qualified service technician should make these vehicle
inspections at the indicated intervals to ensure safe and dependable
operation.
Bring any problem to the attention of an authorized Mazda Dealer or
qualified service technician as soon as possible.
When Refueling
•Brake and clutch fluid level
•Engine coolant level
•Engine oil level
•Washer fluid level
At Least Monthly
•Tire inflation pressures
At Least Twice a Year (For Example, Every Spring and Fall)
•Automatic transaxle fluid level
•Power steering fluid level
2006 Tribute(j14)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
234
Page 245 of 288

Mazda production and replacement oil filters are designed for added
engine protection and long life. If a replacement oil filter is used that
does not meet Mazda material and design specifications, start-up engine
noises or knock may be experienced.
It is recommended you use the appropriate Genuine Mazda oil filter (or
another brand meeting Mazda specifications) for your engine application.
BATTERY
Your vehicle is equipped with a
Mazda maintenance-free battery
which normally does not require
additional water during its life of
service.
However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check the
battery electrolyte level. Refer to thescheduled maintenancefor the
service interval schedules.
Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to the “level indicator”.
Do not overfill the battery cells.
If the electrolyte level in the battery is low, you can add plain tap water
to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high
mineral or alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery
cells with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the
charging system checked.
If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled
after the battery has been cleaned or replaced.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to
the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables
from the terminals and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water.
Note: Electrical or electronic accessories or components added to
the vehicle by the dealer or the owner may adversely affect
battery performance and durability.
2006 Tribute(j14)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
245
Page 248 of 288

Your vehicle was factory-filled with a 50/50 engine coolant and water
concentration. If the concentration of coolant falls below 40% or above
60%, the engine parts could become damaged or not work properly.A
50–50 mixture of coolant and water provides the following:
•freeze protection down to -34°F (-36°C).
•boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
•protection against rust and other forms of corrosion.
•an accurate temperature readout from the engine coolant
gauge.
When the engine is cold, check the
level of the engine coolant in the
reservoir.
•The engine coolant should be at the“FULL COLD” level or within the
“COLD FILL RANGE” as listed on the engine coolant reservoir
(depending upon application).
•Refer to theScheduled Maintenancesection for service interval
schedules.
•Be sure to read and understandPrecautions when servicing your
vehiclein this chapter.
If the engine coolant has not been checked at the recommended interval,
the engine coolant reservoir may become low or empty. If the reservoir is
low or empty, add engine coolant to the reservoir. Refer toAdding
engine coolantin this chapter.
WARNING: Automotive fluids are not interchangeable; do not
use engine coolant, antifreeze or windshield washer fluid
outside of its specified function and vehicle location.
Adding engine coolant
When adding coolant, make sure it is a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant
and distilled water. Add the mixture to the coolant reservoir,when the
engine is cool, until the appropriate fill level is obtained.
2006 Tribute(j14)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
248