2004 w/ 2.3L I-4, can I swap with the 3.0 V6 engine?

Asked by tommoore159 Sep 01, 2015 at 10:35 AM about the 2005 Mazda Tribute i

Question type: Car Customization

I have a 2004 MT with the 2.3L I-4, the motor is blown, and i have been
looking to replace the engine, especially since the car is in excellent
condition. I have been looking around for a replacement motor and have
found the V6 engines are more common and a lot cheaper. Besides the
different motor mounts and tranny, what else do I need to consider? Is it
feasible, to try and customize it or just look for direct replacement?

1 Answer

7,885

there are a lot of things. you will have to check to see if the radiator is the same, like you said if the mounts are the same, hoses, the wiring harness for the motor is different, the computer is different, you might need the computer set up to the key if it has the chip, they might use a different undercarrage too to fit that motor and trans. it will be a lot of compairing from the 2.3 to the 3.0 but not saying it couldn't be done just might cost you more in the long run then it would cost you difference in getting the 2.3L. nowadays the 4 cyl are just as peppy as the v6, it might lack some power but in all reality it is just easier and is a more economical choice to put the factory specified motor back in the car. I have done swaps like this and unexpected amounts come out in the long run costing me more time frustration and money in the long run. if it was me I would just get a low mile 2.3 put it in and make sure you get it with a warrenty.

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