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2005 Mazda Tribute Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.27
Based on 27 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that was part of the first generation, spanning model years 2001-2006. It's known for being a rebadged Ford Escape. Key trims included the DX, LX, and top-tier S. The Tribute offered a more "sporty" driving experience compared to some competitors. Original pricing ranged from around $19,000 to $25,000. Its appeal lay in its affordability and available V6 engine.
The Good

The 2005 Mazda Tribute offered decent performance, especially with the V6, appealing to drivers seeking some pep. Its reliability was generally acceptable for its age. It provided a comfortable ride for daily use. Its value proposition was strong, being an affordable SUV option. Practical buyers appreciated its utility, while others enjoyed its slightly sportier handling.

The Bad

Common weaknesses in the 2005 Mazda Tribute include potential rust issues, particularly in areas with road salt. The automatic transmission can be a point of concern, with reports of slipping or harsh shifting. Some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system. Also, interior materials can feel dated and basic.

2005 Mazda Tribute: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.3L Inline-4: Available on lower trims.
    • 3.0L V6: Available on higher trims and offered more power.
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.3L I4: Around 153 hp
    • 3.0L V6: Around 200 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.3L I4: 22 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
    • 3.0L V6: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.3L I4: Around 10 seconds
    • 3.0L V6: Around 8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs (with the V6 and proper equipment).
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • DX (Base): Basic features like cloth seats, manual windows, and a basic audio system.
    • LX (Mid-Level): Added features such as power windows and locks, upgraded audio, and alloy wheels.
    • S (Top-Tier): Included the V6 engine, leather seats, sunroof, and other premium features.

2005 Mazda Tribute Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
Make Mazda
Model Tribute
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City KANSAS CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.6L L4
Engine Size 2.6L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2005 Mazda Tribute Have?

The 2005 Mazda Tribute, being a rebadged Ford Escape, shares many of the same common issues. Frequently reported problems include issues with the automatic transmission, such as slipping or harsh shifting, especially as the vehicle ages. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in areas with heavy salt usage during winter. The undercarriage and body panels are prone to corrosion.

Other common issues include problems with the air conditioning system, such as compressor failure. There have also been reports of issues with the ignition system and fuel system. Some owners have experienced problems with the power windows and door locks.

Regarding recalls, it's essential to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any specific recalls related to the 2005 Mazda Tribute, as these can vary. Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the transmission, rust, and the longevity of certain electronic components. Maintaining proper fluid changes and addressing rust proactively can help mitigate some of these issues. Early model years of the Tribute/Escape line had some specific PCM (Powertrain Control Module) related issues that were addressed in later years, including 2005.

How long will the 2005 Mazda Tribute last?

With good maintenance, a 2005 Mazda Tribute can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, this heavily depends on how well it has been maintained. Neglecting regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and other routine maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. Given the age of these vehicles, expect potential issues related to rubber components (hoses, seals) and general wear and tear. Rust is a major factor limiting long-term durability, especially in colder climates. Transmission issues are also a common cause of early retirement for these vehicles. Consistent care is key to maximizing its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Fred
Purchased the 2005 Tribute AWD 4 cylinder A/T new, daily driver and for weekend trips. Currently (2023) has 280k miles. As a precaution at 250k miles, we O/H'd the tranny, O/H'dm rear differential, replaced rubber brake lines, throttle cable, wheel bearings, u-joints. Didn't replace CV joints, as they are still tight. Interior is holding up well, exterior paint showing some age from being parked outside. I run Toyo AT tires, rated for 55k miles, 3 sets now exceeded 75k miles with one set going 85k. Only thing I don't like is the road noise from the (traction) tires. 21 mpg city, 25 hwy. Without cruise control. Very reliable, no surprises. Paid $16k new, spent $6k a couple years ago on repairs. Was worth it. It's a no frills rig that never lets me down. Not a lot of electronic stuff to fail. 4 stars overall because the seats could've been softer.
Ervie [email protected]
I purchased a 2005 Mazda Tribute brand new at 17 months the transmission went out. 5 years later it went out again since the last transmission was a rebuilt one running go
Molsports
I loved the car, it has met most of my needs, it is spacious thus accomodating most of my family luggage. Not so sure whether the diff lock really does the work. I wanna try off road sometime.
Negative Owner Reviews
MC-Scots20202
I bought this car used about 2 1/2- 3 years ago. The company I bought from really screwed me over price wise. But car wise: was wonderful at the beginning... I keep up basic maintenance like oil changes, brakes, etc. but starting in January of this year (2019) everything went down hill. I have replaced brakes 2-3 times. Brake calipers twice on the front. Entire brake line. Spark plugs twice along with boots (about to be 3 times). My all wheel drive component literally exploded off. Also something with the ignition. And a consistent issue with the car grinding gears, and now is about to have to have a new transmission... I recommend if you are going to get this car, to do some serious research and some serious questioning. Take it to a shop to get it inspected before you purchase. And get roadside assistance on your insurance.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Mazda Tribute's built-in tech and entertainment features were fairly basic for its time. Standard features typically included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Higher trims might have offered an upgraded audio system with a CD changer. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems available.

Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional, and available side airbags. Electronic Stability Control was not a common feature on this model year.

Crash test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be checked for specific details. Generally, the Tribute performed reasonably well in frontal crash tests, but side-impact protection was often rated lower. It's important to remember that safety technology has significantly advanced since 2005, so its safety features are dated by modern standards.

Optional features included a sunroof, leather seats, and upgraded wheels. Overall, the 2005 Tribute was not known for its cutting-edge technology, but rather for its practicality and affordability. The focus was on providing a functional and reliable SUV at a reasonable price point.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Mica
Sunlight Silver Metallic
Dark Toreador Red Metallic
Titanium Grey Metallic
Atlantic Blue Metallic
White Pearl Tri-Coat
Arizona Beige Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
Medium Flint

2005 Mazda Tribute Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2005 Mazda Tribute ranged from approximately $19,000 to $25,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices are significantly lower, typically ranging from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Tribute has depreciated considerably due to its age and the fact that newer, more advanced SUVs are available. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition (rust-free is a major plus), mileage, maintenance records, and the presence of desirable options like the V6 engine and leather seats. High mileage and significant cosmetic or mechanical issues will drastically reduce its value.

2005 Mazda Tribute Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2005 Mazda Tribute are typically relatively low due to its age and market value. Fuel costs can be moderate, especially with the V6 engine. Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable. While some repairs are inexpensive, others (like transmission work) can be costly. Rust repair can also add to the expense. Overall, the Tribute can be an economical vehicle if it's well-maintained and doesn't require major repairs, but the potential for unexpected costs makes it a less predictable long-term ownership proposition than a newer vehicle.

2005 Mazda Tribute Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2005 Mazda Tribute Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2005 Mazda Tribute Recalls & Defects

Seats:front Assembly:head Restraint
Recall date 2006-04-12
Recall no. 06v116000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped Without Side AIR Curtains or Moon Roofs Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 201, "occupant Protection IN Interior Impact." During Testing, THE Free Motion Head Form Registered A Measurement Above THE Permitted Limit AT THE Left Hand A-Pillar Trim Area.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, Personal Injury TO Occupants MAY Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Make Modifications TO THE Energy Absorbing Material Located Above THE Headliner IN THE Affected Area Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 31, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 4006d.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock
Recall date 2004-12-23
Recall no. 04v605000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain 2004-2005 Sport Utility Vehicles and Certain 2001-2003 Sport Utility Vehicle Having Rear Liftgate Components Serviced With 2004 Equivalent Components Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 206, 'door Locks and Door Retention Components.' THE Rear Liftgate Latching System Does NOT Meet THE Inertia Load Requirement IN ONE Direction.
Consequence IF THE Liftgate IS Left Unlocked, There IS THE Potential That IT MAY Open During A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Liftgate Latch Release Rod, THE Release ROD Attachment Clip and THE Door Handle Return Spring. THE Recall Began ON March 31, 2005. Owners Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 2804l. Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2012-07-27
Recall no. 12v357000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001 Through 2006, and 2008, Tribute Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Engines and Speed Control. Inadequate Clearance Between THE Engine Cover and THE Speed Control Cable Connector Could Result IN A Stuck Throttle When THE Accelerator Pedal IS Fully or Almost-Fully Depressed. This Risk Exists Regardless OF Whether or NOT Speed Control (Cruise Control) IS Used.
Consequence A Stuck Throttle MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop or Slow THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles BY Increasing THE Engine Cover Clearance, Free OF Charge. Remedy Parts ARE NOW Available. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 13, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-222-5500, Option #6.
Notes Mazda's Recall Campaign Number IS 6812g.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Recall date 2012-07-27
Recall no. 12v357000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001 Through 2006, and 2008, Tribute Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Engines and Speed Control. Inadequate Clearance Between THE Engine Cover and THE Speed Control Cable Connector Could Result IN A Stuck Throttle When THE Accelerator Pedal IS Fully or Almost-Fully Depressed. This Risk Exists Regardless OF Whether or NOT Speed Control (Cruise Control) IS Used.
Consequence A Stuck Throttle MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop or Slow THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles BY Increasing THE Engine Cover Clearance, Free OF Charge. Remedy Parts ARE NOW Available. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 13, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-222-5500, Option #6.
Notes Mazda's Recall Campaign Number IS 6812g.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:wheel Bearing
Recall date 2015-06-03
Recall no. 15e045000
Source NHTSA
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.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2005 Mazda Tribute Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Mazda Tribute is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Mazda Tribute Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2005 Mazda Tribute competed with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape (its twin), and Subaru Forester. In terms of performance, the Tribute with the V6 was comparable to the V6 options in the RAV4 and Escape but lagged behind in fuel efficiency. The Honda CR-V offered better fuel economy and a smoother ride.

Regarding features, the Tribute was generally less well-equipped than the CR-V and RAV4, especially in terms of advanced safety features. Reliability was generally on par with the Escape, but slightly behind the CR-V and RAV4, which had reputations for exceptional dependability.

Price-wise, the Tribute was often more affordable than the CR-V and RAV4, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. A similar alternative would be the Ford Escape, as it shares the same platform and mechanical components. A potentially "better" alternative, if budget allows, would be a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 from the same era, as they typically offer better reliability and resale value, though they will come at a higher purchase price. The Subaru Forester offered standard all-wheel drive, which may be preferable for some buyers.

Ranks #437 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
437 2005 Mazda Tribute (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Mazda Tribute a Good Wagon?

The 2005 Mazda Tribute is ideal for budget-minded buyers seeking an affordable and functional compact SUV. It's worth buying *if* you find one in good condition with documented maintenance history and minimal rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. The V6 model offers more enjoyable performance, but the inline-4 is more fuel-efficient. Due to their age, buying a 2005 Tribute should *only* be considered in the used market. It's a good choice for someone needing a basic, reliable-enough vehicle for short commutes or errands, provided they understand the potential for age-related repairs and are prepared to address them proactively.

2005 Mazda Tribute Owner Reviews

4.27
Consumer Rating, Based on 27 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Fred on February 25, 2023

Really good buy.

Purchased the 2005 Tribute AWD 4 cylinder A/T new, daily driver and for weekend trips. Currently (2023) has 280k miles. As a precaution at 250k miles, we O/H'd the tranny, O/H'dm rear differential, replaced rubber brake lines, throttle cable, wheel bearings, u-joints. Didn't replace CV joints, as they are still tight. Interior is holding up well, exterior paint showing some age from being parked outside. I run Toyo AT tires, rated for 55k miles, 3 sets now exceeded 75k miles with one set going 85k. Only thing I don't like is the road noise from the (traction) tires. 21 mpg city, 25 hwy. Without cruise control. Very reliable, no surprises. Paid $16k new, spent $6k a couple years ago on repairs. Was worth it. It's a no frills rig that never lets me down. Not a lot of electronic stuff to fail. 4 stars overall because the seats could've been softer.

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Tman on January 29, 2023

Horrible gas mileage!!!

Absolutely HORRIBLE GAS MILEAGE!! Unbelievably horrible gas mileage!!! Costs a fortune to run this rust bucket!! The first costly repair and the junk is history!

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Ervie [email protected] on December 25, 2022

Was told the engine was to strong for the transmis

I purchased a 2005 Mazda Tribute brand new at 17 months the transmission went out. 5 years later it went out again since the last transmission was a rebuilt one running go

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Dranch on August 7, 2022

2006 Mazda Tribute

I own a 2006 tribute which I bought in 2005. It is my daily driver still and currently there are 310k miles. Never ever been in the shop other than when needing new tires. I’ve always done the maintenance myself. I’d drive it anywhere with no worries.

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Towing Package lover on April 28, 2022

A good all round vehicle

I bought a 2005 Mazda Tribute with the towing package, and 3.0 automatic for 4k with 149,000 miles on it. Being a 17 year old vehicle I have had to fix broken or missing interior panels, whoever owned this before neglected it and used it as a family beater. That being said I've spent about 400 bucks in restoring it to factory condition and it hasn't given me a problem since! It drives just how it did brand new. There isn't any suspension or brake problems. There is road noise but you can talk to people in the vehicle without raising your voice. Its very torquey which I like. The brakes are very good, this vehicle has power disk brakes all the way around. The steering is always tight, but the wheel is not hard to turn. The vehicle likes 60 but it will hold 80 without any swaying. I'm sure it will go faster but I have not tried. The fuel economy is very good for a SUV I get 20-25 miles to the gallon on the highway with the AC full blast. The interior is comfortable but dated of course. My only genuine complaint about the interior is that there is very few cupholders. WARNING for people who fix their own vehicles: to reach anything at the rear of the motor you need to remove the intake manifold. This makes a 10 minute sparkplug job a 3 hour one

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Alex on October 26, 2020

Most reliable car I’ve owned

We’ve owned our Mazda Tribute since 100k miles. Now almost 200k miles it is still going strong except for the frame. It’s a shame we live in a state where it snows so much and we didn’t take care of the body, but let me start off by saying the 3.0L and 5 speed automatic on the Mazda has to be one of the most reliable cars I’ve driven or seen in a none Toyota,Honda product. The engine/trans still has a lot of life left but the chassis it self doesn’t. If you can find a cheap v6 tribute that isn’t rusted, it will get you to point a-b hassle free & with the proper maintenance will last 200k miles like mine!!!

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Molsports on May 16, 2020

Truly a dependable car I might really on.

I loved the car, it has met most of my needs, it is spacious thus accomodating most of my family luggage. Not so sure whether the diff lock really does the work. I wanna try off road sometime.

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George Y. on March 26, 2020

I am a Mazda fan and was looking for a Tribute.

I am happy with my purchase. Gas mileage better than expected. Very sporty ride was a surprise----independent suspension and brake pads all around was a pleasant surprise.

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Dloggy on November 19, 2019

Bought new, now 135k miles, super reliable.

This vehicle has the towing pckg and 3.0L engine which affects gas mileage. Back seats fold flat, great for dog cages and boxy items,square body makes carrying bulky stuff easy. Window opens up in tail gate. 6 speed transmission always has power. Ingress/egress, and visibility is great. The Tribute is such a good looking, dependable, utility vehicle that its hard to get rid of. Yes, would have loved more cup holders, and not have the console box over one of only two cup holders. More nook n cranny storage would be nice. 30 mpg gas mileage would be awesome...it gets 16-18 in town/20-22 hwy. The ride isn't super quiet, but you can hear people talking and the radio without a problem. The tribute grows on you fast and is a hard car to let go, even when you want all the bells and whistles.

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MC-Scots20202 on October 17, 2019

Worst car I’ve ever had. Possibly a lemon?

I bought this car used about 2 1/2- 3 years ago. The company I bought from really screwed me over price wise. But car wise: was wonderful at the beginning... I keep up basic maintenance like oil changes, brakes, etc. but starting in January of this year (2019) everything went down hill. I have replaced brakes 2-3 times. Brake calipers twice on the front. Entire brake line. Spark plugs twice along with boots (about to be 3 times). My all wheel drive component literally exploded off. Also something with the ignition. And a consistent issue with the car grinding gears, and now is about to have to have a new transmission... I recommend if you are going to get this car, to do some serious research and some serious questioning. Take it to a shop to get it inspected before you purchase. And get roadside assistance on your insurance.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.