Is the 2007 Mazda Tribute reliable?

It can be a dependable compact SUV when maintained, but 2007 Mazda Tribute reliability depends heavily on service history, rust exposure, and transmission condition—especially on higher-mileage examples.

What are the most common 2007 Mazda Tribute problems?

Common issues include automatic transmission shifting or failure (often around 100,000–150,000 miles), rust/corrosion in salt regions, A/C system failures, and suspension wear that causes clunks and uneven tire wear.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2007 Mazda Tribute?

Costs are usually moderate for the class, with routine items like brakes, tires, and fluids staying affordable, but neglected vehicles can become expensive if transmission work, major rust repair, or A/C replacement is needed.

What are the best years to buy for a Mazda Tribute?

Many shoppers look for later first-generation models with strong service records and minimal rust; condition matters more than the exact year, so prioritize documented maintenance, clean underbody condition, and a smooth test drive.

What should I check before buying a used 2007 Mazda Tribute?

Check for transmission slip or harsh shifts, scan for stored engine/transmission codes, inspect underbody and wheel arches for rust, verify A/C blows cold, and examine tires for uneven wear that can signal suspension or alignment issues. For deeper ownership confidence, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, recommended fluids, and the complete maintenance schedule for the 2007 Mazda Tribute.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2007 Mazda Tribute Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A utilitarian compact SUV that can offer value, but its Achilles' heel is the automatic transmission and pervasive rust, demanding a careful buying strategy.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2007 Mazda Tribute

Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the suspension:front:wheel bearing.
Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2009 Mazda Tribute earns a 78.
The system most likely to surface first: transmission (cd4e) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2007 Mazda Tribute?

The 2007 Mazda Tribute, a rebadged Ford Escape, offers basic utility but comes with a notable risk of transmission failure and significant rust issues that demand careful pre-purchase inspection. While it can be a decent value proposition for budget-conscious buyers, prepare for potential moderate to major repair costs if these weak points are overlooked. Proceed with caution and a thorough professional inspection.

Biggest Strengths

Simple, robust V6 engine (if maintained)
Readily available, affordable parts due to Ford Escape platform sharing
Practical and easy to maneuver in urban environments

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2007 Mazda Tribute. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Transmission (CD4E)major

Rust & Corrosionmajor

Power Steering Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING

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.

What breaks on the 2007 Mazda Tribute?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mazda Tribute by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mazda Tribute. Click any year for its full report.

All Mazda Tribute years ranked →Mazda Tribute years to avoid →Mazda Tribute common problems →

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