Mazda Tribute ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2001–2010)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Mazda Tribute we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Tribute across generations.
Average Score
73/100
Best Year
2003 Mazda Tribute
Score 82
Weakest Year
2007 Mazda Tribute
Score 68
Every Mazda Tribute Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A budget-friendly SUV that delivers on utility, but demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a vigilant eye on its known weak spots.
Top risks: Transmission · Ignition System (V6) · Steering & Suspension
A practical choice if you prioritize budget and utility, but be prepared for potential transmission and steering curveballs.
Top risks: Transmission (6F35 Automatic) · Electric Power Steering (EPS) · Body/Structure (Rust & Corrosion)
A practical and affordable compact SUV, but its automatic transmission is a significant liability that demands careful consideration and inspection.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (CD4E) · V6 Engine (3.0L Duratec) · Suspension & Steering Components
A budget-friendly SUV that demands diligent pre-purchase inspection and a repair contingency for its primary weak links.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (CD4E) · Rust and Corrosion · Ignition Coil Packs (V6)
A budget-friendly compact SUV that's a good value if you prioritize careful inspection and budget for potential transmission work.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (CD4E) · Rust and Corrosion · Engine Ignition System (V6)
A budget-friendly compact SUV that requires diligent inspection for rust and a close watch on the automatic transmission, otherwise significant costs await.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (CD4E) · Body & Structural Rust · Engine Ignition System (V6)
A practical and affordable compact SUV, but the V6 automatic transmission and rust issues demand careful scrutiny before purchase.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (V6) · Rust and Corrosion · Catalytic Converters
A budget-friendly SUV that demands a discerning eye for rust and mechanical health, especially the transmission.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (CD4E) · Rust and Corrosion · Engine Ignition System
A practical but aging compact SUV requiring careful inspection and an adequate repair budget to avoid frustration.
Top risks: Transmission (6F35 Automatic) · Electrical System · Rust and Corrosion
A utilitarian compact SUV that can offer value, but its Achilles' heel is the automatic transmission and pervasive rust, demanding a careful buying strategy.
Top risks: Transmission (CD4E) · Rust & Corrosion · Power Steering System
Problems That Follow the Tribute Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Automatic Transmission (CD4E)
Appears in 5 model years · 50% of generations
Rust and Corrosion
Appears in 5 model years · 50% of generations
Engine Ignition System (V6)
Appears in 2 model years · 20% of generations
Transmission (6F35 Automatic)
Appears in 2 model years · 20% of generations