2008 Mazda Tribute Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2008 Mazda Tribute?
The 2008 Mazda Tribute presents as a moderately risky purchase, primarily due to lingering transmission concerns and a significant susceptibility to rust, particularly in northern climates. While its engines are generally robust, you must approach this vehicle with caution and a thorough pre-purchase inspection to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Biggest Strengths
- Generally reliable 3.0L V6 engine (barring transmission issues)
- Simple, proven platform for basic utility
- Affordable purchase price and readily available parts
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2008 Mazda Tribute. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
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.
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 2008 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 reliability scores across nearby years of the Mazda Tribute. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 2008 Mazda Tribute
Parts and accessories matched to your 2008 Mazda Tribute
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Frequently Asked Questions
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