Mazda Tribute problems

General information about Mazda Tribute
Mazda Tribute years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Mazda Tribute (Japanese: マツダ・トリビュート, Matsuda Toribyūto) (Code J14) is a compact SUV made by Japanese automaker Mazda from 2000 to 2011. It was jointly developed with Ford Motor Company and based on the front-wheel drive Mazda 626 platform, which was in turn the basis for the similar Ford Escape on the CD2 platform. The Tribute was priced below the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner in Ford's CD2 SUV lineup.

The Tribute and Escape debuted in 2000, offering front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of a transversely mounted 2.0 L Ford Zetec 4-cylinder engine or 3.0 L Ford Duratec V6. The Ford Escape was also sold as the Ford Maverick in Europe with a Ford 2.0 L I4 Zeta engine with manual transmission, or 3.0 L Duratec coupled to automatic transmission.

One main difference between the Tribute and the Ford Escape/Maverick is that the Tribute's suspension is tuned for a firmer ride than the Escape/Maverick, in order to correspond with Mazda's sporty image. As Mazda had offered "spiced up" models in other segments such as the Mazda3 and CX-7, the utilitarian Tribute was replaced by the more aggressively styled and in-house-designed Mazda CX-5 in North America.

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Common Mazda Tribute problems

Based on complaints from Mazda Tribute owners, common problems with the Mazda Tribute cars include:

Engine Problems: The engine in Mazda Tribute cars had reliability concerns, with instances of the engine dying while driving or causing acceleration issues that led to accidents. For example, the 2006 model had speed control issues resulting in crashes. Owners reported acceleration problems and stalling, especially in older vehicles with around 80,000 miles.

Rust Issues: The 2005 Mazda Tribute had a significant problem with struts rusting prematurely, requiring costly repairs. Owners had to spend an average of $1,000 to address this issue.

Power Steering and Electrical Issues: Problems with power steering, rust in areas above the rear wheels, and electrical issues were also common in Mazda Tribute cars. These problems could be expensive to repair and required careful inspection before purchasing a used vehicle.

Fuel Efficiency and Reliability Concerns: The Mazda Tribute was noted for its fuel inefficiency compared to rivals in the compact SUV segment. Additionally, reliability concerns, especially related to transmission problems, power steering issues, and rust in regions with salt usage, were highlighted as potential drawbacks for owners.

Interior and Cabin Noise: Some owners reported that the Tribute had a noisier cabin compared to competitors, impacting comfort during long drives. The interior of the Tribute, being from the late 2000s, was also considered outdated by some users.

These common problems reported by Mazda Tribute owners highlight various issues ranging from transmission and engine failures to rust and power steering concerns. Addressing these problems promptly and considering them when purchasing a used Mazda Tribute can help owners make informed decisions and avoid unexpected repair costs.

Is the Mazda Tribute reliable?

The average annual repair cost is $523 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Tribute is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.

How many miles will a Mazda Tribute last?

I'd say, 150000 - 180000 miles on the odometer, it ran very well, and still does. My grandfather drove it off the lot new in 2003 and used it for 17 - 19 years commuting back and forth to work, and it has about 205500 miles on it now, and it's running fantastically.

What are common problems with a 2006 Mazda Tribute?

Which Mazda Tribute to avoid?

Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (2001–2006).

2nd Generation Tribute. Years 2008–2011 Reliability 25th out of 36 PainRank™ 4.97 Complaints 51.
1st Generation Tribute. Years 2001–2006 Reliability 28th out of 36 PainRank™ 7.95 Complaints 156.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Tribute years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Tribute cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Tribute model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Tribute model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Tribute years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda Tribute car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Tribute , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Engine and engine cooling problems
Vehicle speed control problems
Structure problems
Suspension problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Tribute vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tribute model years

A total of 110 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tribute model years

There were a total of 55 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tribute model years

There were a total of 89 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tribute model years

There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 2154 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Tribute . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Tribute vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mazda Tribute 2004

Date Of Incident: 2004-05-15
Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
VIN: 4F2YZ04174K
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
Summary: The driver air bag light on the instrument panel has been illuminated since 2004, repair had been attempted several times but has failed. A bulletin has been sent by the manufacture to the dealership regarding steering wheel airbag light being illuminated giving a false warning, due to defective electrical wiring that cannot be repaired.

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Mazda Tribute 2001

Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
Date Complaint: 2024-07-24
VIN: 4F2YU061X1K
Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
Summary: Corroded Subframe led to almost complete separation of drivers side control arm, 72k original miles, took my problem to Bergery Mazda where no one cared. If the part was already replaced in 2014 how is it possibly broken already.

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Mazda Tribute 2005

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-21
Date Complaint: 2024-07-21
VIN: 4F2YZ04135K
Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
Summary: Passenger rear shock mount toatly rusted through. A big hole!

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Mazda Tribute 2009

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
Date Complaint: 2024-01-22
VIN: 4F2CZ02759K
Components: STEERING
Summary: Lost of power steering hard to steer the steering wheel

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Mazda Tribute 2002

Date Of Incident: 2022-11-22
Date Complaint: 2023-11-22
VIN: 4F2YU09122K
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission was shifting erratically and made an abnormal rumbling sound. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated to respond and was jerking upon depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact who is an independent mechanic had replaced the transmission speed sensor, the transmission shift position sensor, the vehicle speed sensor, the shift solenoid block, the transmission fluid, the transmission clutch solenoid, and the wheel speed sensor; however, the failure persisted. The contact used an OBD scanner and retrieved DTC codes indicating that the ABS wiring was overheating. The contact later became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V016000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair; however, the dealer bypassed the ABS module. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH to the residence after the repair, the failure recurred. The contact stated that the recall repair did not involve bypassing the ABS module. The dealer was contacted, but no further assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and several cases were opened; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.

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Mazda Tribute 2002

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
Date Complaint: 2023-10-13
VIN: 4F2YU09122K
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: My car has had a abs engine code for a year that I have spent a lot of money trying to get it off because, I can’t renew my tag because it failed emissions vehicle safety test . So I was notified by my insurance company that my vehicle was under recall. I read it and called Mazda and it was confirmed and I went to the shop and I waited 6 hours for the installation of a new abs module and wire harness. Hennesy Mazda of morrow Georgia bypassed the abs system but replaced my voltage regulator with out my consent. The recall recommended repair is to replace the abs module and harness. The dealership refused to comply and neither offered a tow back to Newnan Georgia where I live. So they placed me and others at risk by failing to comply. I have been ignored even after speaking with 3 customer service representatives and I was given a call [XXX] 10/11/23. I was told that I had to get it to Marietta Jim Ellis Mazda and that they would contact me but know one has called. I need your help to resolve this serious violation of the recall and the altering of my vehicles abs by bypassing it . I have lost a total of $2,367 in parts lost wages and anguish due to their lack of compliance of the recall of my 2002 Mazda tribute es abs module and harness. The abs module and wiring to ECM gets the voltage regulator hot and causes abs engine light to illuminate and malfunction. This my work vehicle I need it to make a living. The abs module and harness wasn’t changed but was bypassed . The recall clearly states the issue and recommended repairs by vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Mazda Tribute 2008

Date Of Incident: 2023-09-11
Date Complaint: 2023-09-18
VIN: 4F2CZ02Z48K
Components: STEERING
Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving at low speeds and making a turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the roadway. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as needed; however, the failure recurred while making a turn. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving and making a turn and had become a persistent failure after turning off and restarting the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that he would be charged a fee for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V282000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

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Mazda Tribute 2008

Date Of Incident: 2023-09-12
Date Complaint: 2023-09-12
VIN: 4F2CZ92Z78K
Components: STEERING
Summary: The steering is very tight, and sometimes the wheel gets stripped out of your hands, vehicle has been brought to the dealer for a diagnosis

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Mazda Tribute 2003

Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
Date Complaint: 2023-09-04
VIN: 4F2CZ041X3K
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: My ABS keeps locking up and Ive almost wrecked multiple times. I changed brakes and rotors and still the problem is on-going. Its dangerous and Ive read others saying the same thing online.

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Mazda Tribute 2005

Date Of Incident: 2023-07-09
Date Complaint: 2023-07-25
VIN: 4F2CZ96115K
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: Rear passenger shock mount rusted out completely

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Mazda Tribute 2006

Date Of Incident: 2023-05-16
Date Complaint: 2023-06-07
VIN: 4F2YZ04166K
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Summary: 2006 MAZADA TRIBUTE- Consumer sent a request to Mazda North America to request estimate for cost of repair for replacement of the sensor and switches on the doors and service to the "door ajar" alarm system. Mazda customer care stated they wouldn't be able to provide assistance in the issue. The vehicle is out of warranty and there is no open recalls or special service programs. Consumer resubmitted request to Mazda. Consumer states: "This is the responsibility of the manufacturer! This feature·, (Door Ajar) notification is a major preventative safety item that should have an interrupt feature within. It does not! The defect of malfunction, ringing of the chime, is a conscience detraction element that cannot be tolerated continuously!" The consumer stated the cost of repairs will cost $4590 and feels this is the responsibility of the manufacturer.

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Mazda Tribute 2004

Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
Date Complaint: 2023-05-08
VIN: 4F2YZ94174K
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stopped and noticed there was rust on the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear shock had detached due to rust. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 203,350.

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Mazda Tribute 2008

Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
Date Complaint: 2023-04-24
VIN: 4F2CZ02Z28K
Components: STEERING
Summary: The contact's son owns a 2008 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated while her son was driving and making a turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact's son was able to veer to the side of the road by using physical force to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V282000 (Steering), and any additional repair was at the owner's expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

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Mazda Tribute 2005

Date Of Incident: 2023-04-20
Date Complaint: 2023-04-23
VIN: 4F2CZ96195K
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: The rear wheel well was completely rusted out while the other side is fine. The shock broke loose causing the vehicle to drop down. I have a 17 year old that is not an experienced driver and this could have resulted in her getting seriously hurt. From what I read they recalled the vehicle to to 2004 and I don’t understand why they did not recall this one. They should have and this is a serious safety issue. Does someone have to die before they see that this needs to be fixed?

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Mazda Tribute 2004

Date Of Incident: 2023-02-27
Date Complaint: 2023-03-02
VIN: 4F2YZ04174K
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Tribute. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 212,900.

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Latest 5 recalls Mazda Tribute

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 60 recalls for different components of the Mazda Tribute.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Mazda Tribute 2010
Report Received Date: 2016-10-28
Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Tribute vehicles manufactured March 3, 2009, to May 26, 2011. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices informing owners of the safety recall were mailed on December 23, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts are in stock. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0416J.

Model: Mazda Tribute 2011
Report Received Date: 2016-10-28
Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Tribute vehicles manufactured March 3, 2009, to May 26, 2011. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices informing owners of the safety recall were mailed on December 23, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts are in stock. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0416J.

Model: Mazda Tribute 2008
Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2008 Tribute vehicles manufactured February 9, 2007 to April 22, 2008. The affected vehicles have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
Consequence: If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission and if necessary tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8815J.

Model: Mazda Tribute 2008
Report Received Date: 2015-06-03
Manufacturer: Timken Company
Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Summary: The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Consequence: Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.

Model: Mazda Tribute 2006
Report Received Date: 2015-06-03
Manufacturer: Timken Company
Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Summary: The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Consequence: Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.

Latest negative Mazda Tribute car reviews

Lucas Thiel 2025-04-21

Vehicle year: 2002

As a Mazda Navajo owner for 10 years, I can confidently say that it was the best vehicle I have ever owned. However, my experience with the Mazda Tribute was not as positive. While I was initially satisfied with the vehicle, I began experiencing issues as soon as the warranty ran out. The computer failed and left me stranded 300 miles from home, and I also experienced problems with the cruise control, instrument panel, airbag sensor, and various electrical components. Additionally, I had to replace the power door locks and power window switches, and experienced fluid leaks that mechanics were unable to locate. The brake dust was also quite excessive. Unfortunately, I have encountered a new problem with the vehicle almost every week. While I am disappointed with my experience with the Mazda Tribute, I still hold Mazda in high regard based on my positive experience with the Navajo.
Junius Emard 2025-04-20

Vehicle year: 2006

Although this vehicle initially seemed great, it has unfortunately experienced a number of issues since reaching 70,000 miles. These include the oil pan needing to be re-sealed twice, transmission and rack and pinion leaks, a starter replacement, and a bad alternator. Despite having an extended warranty, the dealership did not honor it, resulting in significant out-of-pocket expenses. While this has been a challenging situation for my family, I am confident in my ability to handle it and find a solution.
Winfield Walter 2025-04-16

Vehicle year: 2009

The Grand Touring model that I purchased initially drove perfectly during the summer, but recently I experienced some issues such as jerking on acceleration, loud screeching of tires, and stalling when transitioning from brake to gas pedal. Despite having owned the truck for only 6 months, I had to take it to the service department where I bought it from. Upon inspection, it turned out to be a transmission issue, which is unfortunately not uncommon for Mazda Tribute trucks. It is important for buyers to do their research and be aware of this issue.
Rickie Considine 2025-04-15

Vehicle year: 2010

Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Tribute. When I first got it with 7300 miles, I absolutely loved it! However, after driving it for a while, I noticed that the transmission had become sluggish and the brakes were giving me some trouble. Despite taking it to the shop 5 times in the last 6 months, the brakes still squeaked loudly. I had read numerous reviews about the Tribute/Escape/Mariner and the transmission issues that consumers were facing, so I decided to trade it in before it could give me any more problems. Despite these issues, I really loved the layout and look of the vehicle. I also found the 12v outlet in the back to be quite useful, although it did come out of its compartment and the one up front was a bit loose. In terms of gas mileage, I was getting about 22-25 mpg in the city and 26-28 mpg on the highway. Thanks for listening to my experience!
Waino Christiansen 2025-04-13

Vehicle year: 2009

Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Tribute. When I first got it with 7300 miles, I absolutely loved it! However, after driving it for a while, I noticed that the transmission had become sluggish and the brakes were giving me some trouble. Despite taking it to the shop 5 times in the last 6 months, the brakes still squeaked loudly. I had read numerous reviews about the Tribute/Escape/Mariner and the transmission issues that consumers were facing, so I decided to trade it in before it could give me any more problems. Despite these issues, I really loved the layout and look of the vehicle. I also found the 12v outlet in the back to be quite useful, although it did come out of its compartment and the one up front was a bit loose. In terms of gas mileage, I was getting about 22-25 mpg in the city and 26-28 mpg on the highway. Thanks for listening to my experience!

Latest positive Mazda Tribute car reviews

Angel Miller 2025-04-25

Vehicle year: 2004

I bought this car on a whim 13 years ago when it had only 9k miles on it. It's a basic I4 with a manual stick, and even now at 150k miles, it's still going strong. One of the pros of this car is its sitting position and headroom, which is great for everyone. The trunk room and classic boxy shape are also a plus, as it can fit more and bigger stuff than you might think, and loading and unloading, even from the roof, isn't that bad. I've loaded a queen bed set on top and a big long office desk with it, among other things. The handling is okay for a boxy, tall little SUV, and the stick shift helps a lot on highway merges. However, with this little I4 engine, there's only so much juice you can squeeze out of it. The sitting position is fine, and there's a pretty good open view all around. I feel claustrophobic in some of the 'modern' wedge-shaped cars and SUVs. One of the cons is that it gets around 22 mpg, so it's not a gas saver for sure. It's also pretty loud at any speed, and the interior styling and convenience are lacking, but what do you expect from a cheap little transporter? The build quality is okay, but there have been small/medium problems over the years. This car wears tires hard, and various parts have worn out and failed and had to be replaced, including the original stick shifter and oil pump. But overall, the engine and transmission are still holding on, with some problems and hiccups at this age, but still going. Overall, it's an extremely practical people and stuff hauler. If you can still find one, get the stick shift. It's very useful in everyday living. I'd call it the Mazda Town Car. I heard the engine and transmission are actually from Ford? If that's the case, thumbs up to Ford for the reliable little engine and transmission!
Torey Ryan 2025-04-24

Vehicle year: 2006

I bought my Tribute brand new off the showroom floor with only 7 miles on it. She now has almost 90,000 miles on her and she is still going strong. I make sure to do regular oil changes and had a transmission service at 60-K. Just recently, I had the transfer case fluid changed about 1,000 miles ago. The vehicle is really fun to drive and does very well in the snow. It has great get up and go power. Although the fuel economy could be better, it is a full-time AWD vehicle, so nothing unexpected. On the highway, she averages about 21-22mpg and 16-18 in the city traffic. So far, so good! She is well out of warranty, so fingers crossed no issues arise.
Jabari Dietrich 2025-04-18

Vehicle year: 2001

I absolutely love driving this car! It has an SUV look but handles like a car, which is amazing. The get up and go is fantastic! Even my husband, who is considering buying a Porsche Cayenne, agrees that my car drives great compared to it. Although I have had a few minor problems with the car, such as the tape player never working right (which was under warranty but I never got it fixed since I never used it), a broken cable on the drive gear (which cost $200 to fix), and now a broken driver's side door handle, I still think it's a great car.
Kevon Halvorson 2025-04-16

Vehicle year: 2009

Consider swapping the Continentals for Michelin Latitude (as Ford did for model year 2009 and on) or, for a more affordable option, Khumo AST, or any other highway tire with less aggressive treads. You'll be amazed at the noise reduction! My wife thought we had a new ride. Remember to rotate the tires (front/rear, no X pattern) at EACH OIL CHANGE. The Tribute (Escape) rear suspension is soft (to avoid the jerkiness in turns) so the tires tend to chip off on the edges. Diligent rotation will save the day. Overall, I found this to be the best value for my driving experience!
Santiago Balistreri 2025-04-12

Vehicle year: 2002

You made a great choice when you bought this SUV 15 years ago! The V6 engine is still running smoothly and is super powerful. The cabin space is roomy and very comfortable, making it perfect for long journeys. It's amazing that this SUV has been everywhere and still performs great. You've only had to replace the battery now and then, which is impressive. It's fantastic that it's still going strong even after reaching the 300,000 mile mark!