Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2003 Mazda Tribute 4WD L4-2.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Lean Correction
LEAN CORRECTION
Note:
^ When installing a new coil spring, install a new one with the same part number and the same spring code. Refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) Label on the driver-side door.
1. Measure the distance from the wheelhouse opening to the center of the wheel and tire at the same point on both sides of the vehicle.
2. If the difference exceeds 10 mm (0.4 inch), a lean correction is necessary.
Compare the original with a new coil spring. Note the difference.
3. Remove the higher side coil spring.
1. If the original coil spring exceeds the height of the new one by 10 mm (0.4 inch), install the new coil spring in the vehicle.
2. If the original coil spring is shorter than the new one by 10 mm (0.4 inch), remove the low side coil spring from the vehicle.
4. Compare all three coil springs and select the two most evenly matched for installation.
Note:
^ When installing a new coil spring, install a new one with the same part number and the same spring code. Refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) Label on the driver-side door.
1. Measure the distance from the wheelhouse opening to the center of the wheel and tire at the same point on both sides of the vehicle.
2. If the difference exceeds 10 mm (0.4 inch), a lean correction is necessary.
Compare the original with a new coil spring. Note the difference.
3. Remove the higher side coil spring.
1. If the original coil spring exceeds the height of the new one by 10 mm (0.4 inch), install the new coil spring in the vehicle.
2. If the original coil spring is shorter than the new one by 10 mm (0.4 inch), remove the low side coil spring from the vehicle.
4. Compare all three coil springs and select the two most evenly matched for installation.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.