🇩🇪 Deutsch
Mazda · Compact SUV · 2001–2007

Mazda Tribute EP

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Mazda Tribute EP is available with 2 engine variants — from 124 to 203 hp.

2.0L Zetec · Benziner· 124 PS
2001 2007
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
3.0L V6 Duratec · Benziner· 197–203 PS
2001 2007
Be Careful 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Mazda 2.0L Zetec (Benziner, 124 PS) has the YF (2.0L Zetec) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The Mazda 3.0L V6 Duratec (Benziner, 197–203 PS) has the AJ (3.0L V6 Duratec) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Surface rust on lower door edges, roof and tailgate

Lower door flanges on all doors rust with paint bubbling. Roof weld spots corrode due to inadequate paint coverage. Tailgate in the area of the number plate light is also affected.

Symptoms: Visible rust bubbles on lower door edges, dark spots on the roof, paint flaking on the tailgate
from 80,000 km
Ad doorschweller Mazda Tribute EPtailgate TributeUnterbodenschutz Tribute EP
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,874 complaints · 2001–2007
Engine & Cooling
353 ⚠ 3
Body Structure
284 ⚠ 9
Cruise Control
283 ⚠ 34
Suspension
245 ⚠ 4
Brakes
221 ⚠ 13

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine & Cooling (353 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (284 complaints)
⚠ Cruise Control (283 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Fiat Sedici FY

Kompakt-SUV (2005–2014)

Same Segment

Subaru Outback BP

Kompakt-SUV (2005–2009)

Same Segment

Suzuki Jimny JB43

Kompakt-SUV (2005–2018)

Same Segment

Toyota Tacoma 2nd Gen

Kompakt-SUV (2005–2015)

Same Segment

Hyundai Tucson JM

Kompakt-SUV (2004–2010)

Same Segment

Kia Sportage KM

Kompakt-SUV (2004–2010)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda Tribute EP (2001–2007) — 11 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Suspension, Electronics, Gearbox.

Tribute (YF, 2001–2007) — Be Careful: Timing Chain Stretch, Ignition Coil Failure, High Oil Consumption from Worn Piston Rings. Power: 124 PS.

Tribute (AJ, 2001–2007) — Be Careful: Ignition Coil Failure (COP), Intake Manifold and Plenum Gaskets Leaking, Automatic Transmission Overheats When Towing. Power: 197–203 PS.

What to watch out for with the Mazda Tribute? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda Tribute EP have? +
The Mazda Tribute EP has 11 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda Tribute EP? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: YF (2.0L Zetec), AJ (3.0L V6 Duratec). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the AJ (3.0L V6 Duratec).
Which Mazda Tribute EP engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Mazda Tribute EP — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} With the 3.0-litre V6 and 197 hp, the Mazda Tribute EP becomes a relaxed yet brisk SUV with permanent reserves on the motorway and surprising agility on country roads. The Ford V6 runs smoothly and is low-maintenance thanks to chain drive. Fuel consumption of 11–12 litres is the price for the V6 experience.
Is the Mazda Tribute EP worth buying used? +
The Mazda Tribute EP requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda Tribute EP? +
The Mazda Tribute EP is available with engine variants from 124 to 203 hp. Petrol: YF (2.0L Zetec), AJ (3.0L V6 Duratec).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee