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2001 Mazda Tribute Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.23
Based on 24 Owner Reviews
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV, a joint venture with Ford (badged as the Ford Escape). It debuted in 2001 and ran until 2011. Key trims included DX, LX, and ES. It was initially priced competitively, with an MSRP starting around $18,000. The Tribute stood out for its sporty handling, a hallmark of Mazda, offering a more engaging driving experience than many of its contemporaries. This, combined with its practicality, contributed to its popularity.
The Good

The 2001 Mazda Tribute offers a blend of practicality and fun. Its responsive steering and available V6 engine deliver a more engaging driving experience (emotional appeal). Simultaneously, its ample cargo space, affordable price point, and generally acceptable reliability make it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers (practical appeal). Comfort is adequate for its class.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2001 Mazda Tribute include rust, especially in areas with road salt. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, have been reported. Check for oil leaks and ensure regular maintenance has been performed. The interior materials can feel cheap and dated compared to more modern SUVs.

2001 Mazda Tribute: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.0L Inline-4: Offered in the DX and LX trims.
    • 3.0L V6: Available in the LX and ES trims.

  • Horsepower:
    • 2.0L Inline-4: Approximately 130 hp.
    • 3.0L V6: Approximately 200 hp.

  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.0L Inline-4: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
    • 3.0L V6: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.

  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.0L Inline-4: Around 10-11 seconds.
    • 3.0L V6: Around 8-9 seconds.

  • Towing Capacity:
    • Up to 3,500 lbs with the V6 engine and proper equipment. The 4-cylinder models had a lower towing capacity.

  • Trim Level Features:
    • DX (Base): Basic features, manual transmission standard (automatic optional), cloth seats, AM/FM radio.
    • LX (Mid-Level): Added features like power windows and locks, upgraded stereo, and available automatic transmission.
    • ES (Top-Level): Leather seats, sunroof, premium audio system, alloy wheels, and usually the V6 engine.

2001 Mazda Tribute Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Mazda
Model Tribute
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City FLAT ROCK
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 3292 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine AJD
Engine Size 3L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $21,225
Invoice Price $19,834
Delivery Charges $540

Vehicle History Report

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2001 Mazda Tribute Have?

The 2001 Mazda Tribute, being an older vehicle, has a history of reported problems. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters and salted roads; undercarriage and body panel rust should be thoroughly inspected. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, are frequently cited. Slipping gears, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure are among the reported problems. Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial. Oil leaks, especially from the valve cover gaskets and rear main seal, are also common. Engine misfires can occur, often related to spark plugs or ignition coils. The 2001 model year specifically had some complaints about premature brake wear. Recalls for the early Mazda Tribute (including 2001) often involved issues with the fuel tank and potential leaks, so checking the VIN for outstanding recall work is important. Long-term reliability can be a concern, especially if regular maintenance wasn't diligently performed. Parts availability can also become an issue as the vehicle ages.

How long will the 2001 Mazda Tribute last?

With good maintenance, a 2001 Mazda Tribute can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, many are likely well past their prime. Expect that properly maintained examples will offer somewhere between 15-20 years of service. Long-term durability hinges on consistent upkeep. Weaknesses include rust, as mentioned earlier, and the potential for engine and transmission problems if not properly cared for. Suspension components, like struts and bushings, will also wear out over time. Vehicles that haven't had regular oil changes or transmission fluid flushes are likely to have significantly shorter lifespans.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Mazda Tribute's technology is dated by today's standards. Standard features were basic, even for the time. The base DX model offered a simple AM/FM radio. Higher trims (LX and ES) added features like a cassette player and, potentially, a CD player. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems available in 2001. Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were optional. The ES trim typically included ABS. Side airbags were not available. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied. While some tests yielded acceptable results, others showed potential weaknesses in occupant protection, particularly in side impacts. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings were not particularly impressive either. Keep in mind that safety standards have improved significantly since 2001, so comparing it to modern vehicles is not a fair comparison. The optional features like cruise control and power accessories enhanced comfort and convenience, but the built-in tech was minimal compared to newer vehicles.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Mica
Sunlight Silver Metallic
Dark Titanium Metallic
Redfire Metallic
Arizona Beige Metallic
Midnight Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Light Parchment
Dark Graphite

2001 Mazda Tribute Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2001 Mazda Tribute ranged from approximately $18,000 for the base DX model to around $24,000 for a fully equipped ES. As expected, depreciation has been significant. Current used market prices are very low, typically ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free examples command a premium), mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options (like the V6 engine and leather interior). High-mileage examples with deferred maintenance will have very little resale value. Rust is the biggest detractor from value.

2001 Mazda Tribute Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2001 Mazda Tribute are generally low due to its age and modest value. Fuel costs depend on the engine; the 4-cylinder is more economical than the V6. Maintenance can be unpredictable. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others (like transmission work) can be costly. Parts can sometimes be difficult to find. Overall, long-term ownership costs can be moderate if the vehicle is well-maintained, but unexpected repairs can quickly increase expenses. It's not inherently costly to own, but potential for major repairs makes it riskier than a newer vehicle.

2001 Mazda Tribute Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 16.4 gallons
City Mileage 16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 22 miles/gallon

2001 Mazda Tribute Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Marginal
Side Impact Test Results Poor

2001 Mazda Tribute Recalls & Defects

Wheels:hubcap/Cover
Recall date 2000-09-12
Recall no. 00v260002
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Some 4X2 Sport Utility Vehicles NOT Equipped With AN Antilock Braking System MAY Have Inadvertently Been Built With 4X4 Rear Hubs Instead OF 4X2 Hubs. IF THE Incorrect Hubs ARE Installed ON A 4X2 Vehicle, THE Rear Wheels CAN Loosen, or IN Some Cases, Separate From THE Vehicle.
Consequence This Condition Could Cause Loss OF Control OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Rear Hubs And, IF Necessary, Replace Them.
Notes Owner Notification Began October 20, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date 2000-11-28
Recall no. 00v387001
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Sport Utility Vehicles. THE Windshield Wiper Linkage CAN Disengage DUE TO A Broken Ball Socket.
Consequence This Condition Will Likely Result IN Sudden and Complete Loss OF THE Windshield Wiper Function, or OF THE Wiper Function ON THE Driver Side Only, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Wiper Module.
Notes Owner Notification Began December 15, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
Recall date 2000-09-18
Recall no. 00v277002
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Sport Utility Vehicles. THE O-Ring Seals IN THE Fuel Line Connector AT THE Outlet END OF THE Fuel Filter Were Damaged When THE Line WAS Connected TO THE Filter During Vehicle Assembly. IN Some Cases, This Damage Could Result IN A Fuel Odor, or Possibly IN Fuel Dripping From THE Connection.
Consequence Fuel Leakage, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Fuel Line.
Notes Owner Notification Began October 20, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:other:owners/Service/Other Manual
Recall date 2000-10-16
Recall no. 00v323000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 225, "child Restraint Anchorage Systems." THE Owner's Manuals DO NOT Indicate Which Seating Positions ARE Equipped With Child Restraint Anchorages. Also, THE Manuals DO NOT Explain THE Markings IN THE Vehicles That Locate THE Lower Anchorages.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Child Seat MAY NOT BE Properly Attached Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Child.
Remedy Owners Will BE Provided With Revised Owner Manuals.
Notes Owner Notification Began December 15, 2000. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Label and Installation Instructions Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Recall date 2000-08-09
Recall no. 00v223002
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Sport Utility Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY Have A Mis-Assembled or Incorrectly Manufactured NUT That Attaches THE Steering Wheel Assembly TO THE Steering Column. THE NUT Could BE Upside Down IN THE Steering Wheel Assembly, Which Could Overstress THE Steering Column Shaft When THE NUT IS Tightened. IN Addition, Some OF THE Nuts MAY Have Been Cracked During Manufacture Resulting IN THE NUT Fracturing When IT IS Tightened During Vehicle Assembly.
Consequence Either OF These Conditions CAN Lead TO THE Steering Wheel Becoming Loose or Separating From THE Steering Column, Resulting IN Loss OF Steering Control.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Steering Wheel Retention Armature And, IF Necessary, THE Steering Column TO Correct This Condition.
Notes Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During August 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date 2000-08-09
Recall no. 00v210002
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With Speed Control. THE Speed Control Cable CAN Have A Cracked or Missing Speed Control Cable Servo CAP Locating Tab. THE Locating TAB Could Enter THE Servo Clutch Cavity and Interfere With THE Speed Control Servo Clutch. Also, Water Could Enter Those Units That Contain A Cracked or Missing Servo CAP Locating Tab, Eventually Causing Corrosion That Could Interfere With THE Function OF THE Speed Control.
Consequence IF Either OF These Conditions Occurs and THE Speed Control IS Used, THE Speed Control Could Prevent THE Throttle From Returning TO Idle, Resulting IN A Stuck Throttle. A Stuck Throttle Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Speed Control Cables. Vehicles With Speed Control Cables From Cavities 3 and 4 Will Have THE Cable THE Speed Control Servo Replaced.
Notes Owner Notification Began August 25, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date 2003-12-15
Recall no. 03v515000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles, A Post Within THE Safety Belt Buckle Covers Could Fracture, Which Could Affect Latch Function, Resulting IN Either A "NO Latch" or "partial Latch" Condition. IN THE "partial Latch" Condition, THE Buckle Tongue CAN BE Inserted Into THE Buckle and Appear TO BE Engaged, BUT Will Release From THE Buckle Without THE Push Button Being Depressed When A Relatively Low Load IS Applied, Such AS When AN Occupant Moves Slightly IN THE Seat.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Have THE Driver and Front Passenger Safety Belt Buckle Cover Removed and Replaced With A Newly Designed Service Buckle Cover. Owner Notification Began February 5, 2004. Owners Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 1503l.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Recall date 2004-04-09
Recall no. 04v175000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Duratec Engines , During Deceleration, THE Engine CAN Stall.
Consequence Should THE Engine Stall, A Vehicle Crash Could Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Reprogram THE Power Control Module (Pcm) With THE Appropriate Calibration. THE Recall Began ON MAY 3, 2004. Owners Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 1904d.also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2007-03-29
Recall no. 07e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY 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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date 2007-04-10
Recall no. 07v157000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With Antilock Brakes (Abs), THE ABS Module Connector MAY Have Missing or Dislodged Wire Seals. This Condition Could Allow Contamination TO Enter THE Module Connector, Creating A Potential FOR AN Electrical Short.
Consequence AN Electrical Short Might Cause AN ABS Malfunction That Would Illuminate THE ABS Warning Light, and IN Some Cases, THE Module MAY Overheat Resulting IN Burning Odor, Smoke, And/Or Fire. This Condition Could Occur Either When THE Vehicle Ignition Switch IS IN THE OFF Position or While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Wire Harness Connector TO THE ABS Module FOR Missing or Dislodged Wire Seals, and Repair or Replace THE Harness Connector AS Appropriate. THE Dealer Will Also Inspect THE Connector ON THE ABS Module and Replace IT IF IT IS Found TO BE Corroded or Damaged. THE Recall Began ON MAY 9, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500.
Notes Mazda Recall NO. 4507c.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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date 2012-01-20
Recall no. 12v016000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2002 Mazda Tribute Vehicles Manufactured From April 20, 2000, Through July 19, 2002. THE Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir CAP CAN Leak Brake Fluid. IF Brake Fluid Leaks, IT Could Come IN Contact With THE Antilock Brake System (Abs) Module Wiring Harness Connector.
Consequence Corrosion MAY Develop IN THE Electrical Connector Leading Melting, Smoking or Possible Fire.
Remedy Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Vehicle's Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir CAP and Modify THE ABS Electrical System, Free OF Charge. Until THE Repair HAS Been Performed, Vehicle Owners Should Park Their Vehicles Outside. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 22, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 6.
Notes Mazda?s Safety Recall Campaign Number IS 6712a. Customers MAY 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.
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.
Structure:frame and Members
Recall date 2014-04-04
Recall no. 14v174000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2004 Tribute Vehicles Manufactured MAY 22, 2000, Through December 19, 2003, Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and THE District OF Columbia. These Vehicles MAY Experience Excessive Corrosion AT THE Forward Attachment OF THE Lower Control Arm.
Consequence A Separation OF THE Lower Control ARM CAN Result IN A Significant Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Newly Designed Reinforcement Cross-Brace, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 29, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 7514d.
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.
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.

2001 Mazda Tribute Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Mazda Tribute is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Mazda Tribute Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2001 Mazda Tribute competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape (its platform sibling). In terms of performance, the Tribute with the V6 offered a more engaging driving experience than the CR-V but wasn't as refined as the RAV4. Feature-wise, it was comparable to its rivals, though lacking some of the advanced safety features even optional in competitors. Reliability-wise, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V generally had a better reputation. Price-wise, the Tribute was often slightly more affordable, particularly on the used market.

Alternatives to consider include the Toyota RAV4 (for superior reliability and resale value), the Honda CR-V (for a balance of practicality and reliability), and even the Ford Escape (if you want a similar vehicle with potentially easier parts availability due to higher production numbers). If budget is a major constraint and you find a well-maintained Tribute, it could be a viable option, but prioritizing reliability, the RAV4 or CR-V are often better choices. The Subaru Forester of the same era offers all-wheel drive as a standard feature, which could be advantageous depending on the buyer's needs.

Ranks #448 SUV

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Mazda Tribute a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2001 Mazda Tribute is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability over long-term reliability and modern features. It's worth considering *only* if you can find a well-maintained example with a documented service history and a pre-purchase inspection reveals no major issues, especially rust or transmission problems. The V6 model offers better performance. Given its age, buying one 'new' is obviously not an option. A mechanically sound, lower-mileage ES trim could be worth a look if the price is right. However, be prepared for potential repairs and don't expect the same level of safety or technology as newer vehicles. Newer, more reliable alternatives are recommended if your budget allows.

2001 Mazda Tribute Owner Reviews

4.23
Consumer Rating, Based on 24 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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deedorn on December 5, 2020

249,000 miles - still going great

A surprise in reliability. Bought a new 2001 Tribute DX 6cyl w/ 4x4. Haven't bought another car yet, 20 years later. Agree with others that little things or expected things happen after 20 years. Fuel pump, driver's side window motor needed replacing, interior door panel's cloth came unglued, fog lights don't currently work, windshield replaced when cracked from New Mexico rocks and drivers, engine seems to be heating oil leaks...but I do religious oil changes and fluids and the car keeps running. I've driven it cross country 12 times, New Mexico to Florida. Beautiful and never a break down. This car is a big part of me and my mobility, but sadly I have to look for a new car next couple months. I want another Mazda or Toyota, I'll never go back to owning a car for 50,000 miles and then selling. What an experience this has been!

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Tribute lover on May 18, 2020

Best car I've owned

Bought used. Had to fix 02 sensors but knew that. Inexpensive to fix. Comfortable. Love this SUV. Will be looking for a new one real soon.

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ILIK2SNG on March 11, 2020

To be as old as it is, it is in great shape!

I love it! I bought it as a backup. But it’s being driven more than my primary car. The kids love it too. It’s clean, reliable, and comfortable.

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brokenh07 on November 30, 2019

love this SUV

This car met my needs and is easy to get in and out of, drive great don't have to fight with it to go straight best car I have owned

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Ramzieh on November 15, 2019

Very great for commuting and it’s very spacey.

It’s so great on the freeway, you get a clear view of the streets since it’s high about the ground. Comfortable seats and AC is pretty good as well.

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Ray on April 9, 2019

Not a good Vehicle

Very costly to maintain. Would not buy again. Always seems to breakdown. Should have been designed better. Do not purchase this vehicle please.Thank you very much

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2Credit on August 1, 2018

Great All-Around SUV

Runs great and has not mechanical or automotive issues. This vehicle has been well maintained over the years and has many more years of life ahead of it.

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Maria on January 2, 2018

Best old car you could own

This car was not the best looking since it was very old, but the drive was awesome. Very good in Canada's winter madness, never slide, there was not enough snow to stop it. Drives like a tank, in a good way. Heavy, reliable, fast and smooth drive. Too bad they don't make it anymore. Looks like a small SUV on the outside but it has tons of space inside, and easy to park.

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IsabellaMB on October 20, 2017

Loved My Car

I had my Mazda Tribute for the past 3 years (bought it with 166,000 miles on it) and the only reason why I don?t have it anymore is because of an accident I was in. Never had a problem with it other than with smaller things, and an Evap valve a local dealership broke after I had a recall done, so it wasn?t my cars fault. I?m still mournful over the loss of my Mazda Tribute and I was completely okay after my bad accident so safety is great too! Only bruises were left on me. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable SUV.

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tnoah1 on July 3, 2017

I wish a could afford a brand new one !

I bought this car at 160,000 miles, and never regretted it. Great Gas Mileage, Dependable, and smaller repairs were never super expensive. No center console/arm rest in the model I owned really sucked, but what sucked even more was that it did not come with fog lights, or cruise control!

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma