The Good
The 2006 Mazda Tribute offered a blend of practicality and driving enjoyment. Practically, it provides decent cargo space and available four-wheel drive. Emotionally, it offers Mazda's signature sporty handling, making it more fun to drive than some competitors. It's also valued for its relative affordability and decent reliability for its age.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2006 Mazda Tribute include rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters. The automatic transmission can be a point of concern, with some reports of issues. Also, be mindful of potential oil leaks and general wear and tear common to vehicles of this age. The interior materials can also feel dated and basic.
2006 Mazda Tribute: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.3L Inline-4 (DX, LX)
3.0L V6 (LX, S) - Horsepower:
2.3L I4: ~153 hp
3.0L V6: ~200 hp - Fuel Economy (estimated):
2.3L I4: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
3.0L V6: 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD) - 0-60 Times (estimated):
2.3L I4: 9-10 seconds
3.0L V6: 8-9 seconds - Towing Capacity (3.0L V6):
Up to 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped) - Trim Level Features:
DX (Base): Basic features like cloth seats, manual windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
LX (Mid-Range): Added features like power windows and locks, upgraded audio, and available alloy wheels.
S (Top-Tier): Leather seats (optional), premium audio system, sunroof (optional), and sometimes included 4WD. Features also included fog lights and other cosmetic upgrades. Cruise control was standard on LX and S trims. Air conditioning was generally standard across all trims. The S trim also offered options like a navigation system (rare for this year).
2006 Mazda Tribute Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5000 pounds |
| 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 | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Mazda Tribute Have?
Another potential issue is oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and the rear main seal. Regularly check the oil level and look for oil spots under the vehicle. Some owners have also reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as the compressor failing.
Recalls for the 2006 Mazda Tribute (and its Ford Escape counterpart) have addressed issues such as the fuel tank not meeting federal standards, which could increase the risk of a fire in a crash. Check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information and ensure that any applicable recalls have been performed on the specific vehicle you are considering. Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues, as well as general wear and tear associated with age. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping a 2006 Tribute running reliably.
How long will the 2006 Mazda Tribute last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and side airbags (optional on some trims). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not standard, but available on some models.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. Generally, the Tribute performed adequately in frontal crash tests, but side-impact protection was sometimes rated lower. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and their ratings should be consulted for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's safety performance. Keep in mind that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2006, so the Tribute's safety features are not comparable to modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Mazda Tribute Prices and Market Value
2006 Mazda Tribute Cost of Ownership
2006 Mazda Tribute Fuel Efficiency
2006 Mazda Tribute Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Mazda Tribute Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Mazda Tribute Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
In terms of features, the Tribute was generally on par with its rivals, although some competitors offered more advanced features, even in 2006. Price-wise, the Tribute was often more affordable than the CR-V and RAV4, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Better alternatives, depending on priorities, might include the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 for superior reliability. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Escape offers a similar experience to the Tribute and could be found for a lower price. If space is needed, the Chevrolet Equinox would be a better choice. The Tribute shines if you desire a more engaging driving experience than other compact SUVs from that era at a lower price point.
Ranks #434 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 | (5.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 434 | 2006 Mazda Tribute | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Mazda Tribute a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
SteveW on January 7, 2025
Bought our '06 Tribute used w/ 145k miles.Bought our '06 Tribute used w/ 145k miles. Purchased it just as a "local errands" car to keep miles off our '22 Mustang's odometer and leave my older Ford F250XL w/V10 parked because it loves fuel. Pleasantly surprised. Plenty of room for the two of us + our pit bull and luggage. Have used it for a few trips to Florida and to Helen GA. No issues, decent gas mileage and overall comfortable to drive. Not as easy on the body as some of the larger SUV'S, (Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator), but still comfortable and easier on the wallet when it comes to fuel, (and insurance), and insurance costs. Normally, we flip our older used vehicles every 6-8 months but the wife wants to keep this one awhile, she feels comfortable operating it. Went so far as to purchase a Thule cargo box for the roof rack to give us even more space. I think Mazda may have made a mistake discontinuing this model in favor of the smaller CX models.
AndyGr10 on May 5, 2020
Most versatile car possibleI love the tribute. First I owned an '02 which drove smoothly with no major repairs through 220,000 miles. I'm now on my second, an '06 which I got a week ago and I'm loving even more. These cars will give you what you want in an SUV without compromising agility
Joyv429 on November 10, 2019
Best vehicle we've ever owned.This vehicle meets all our needs. Comfortable for both short and long trips. Great leg room front and back. Lots of room for luggage and groceries. Bought used at great price with trade in vehicle. Three recalls which we have currently having fixed.
OscarLerma on March 29, 2019
The Best First CarI was looking for cars and saw this one through the app. Low miles and low price really caught my attention. I went to check it and this car runs smoothly. Love it! Best car for the first car I’ve ever bought.
Moosa on February 21, 2019
13 Years Old and Still My BabyMy car has given me comfort and security for all these years. Who says age is only a number? It sill is the best ride.
bryantld on July 16, 2018
Too many problemsI bought this car with 193k miles on it. Car was very reliable. When it reached 250k miles, I start to have a lot of problems with this car. I had to replace valve cover gaskets, radiator, and the transmission eventually gave out. The cost of repairs is outrageous.
Kayak Karen on May 27, 2018
Cute small SUVThe SUV was everything I needed, small compact SUV that has plenty of get up and go, and is 4WD. I have a rack to carry my kayak, lots of leg room inside, and plenty of room for your gear in back.
Corey on April 25, 2018
Great vehicle. Would definitely recommendLove the flexibility to drive to work in the suburbs and hit the lake on the weekend all in the same vehicle. Gas mileage on mine is pretty good to. Overall a very reliable and economical car to drive.
irkeslar on February 19, 2018
perfect suv for a first carI originally wanted an explorer sport trec or maybe a dodge Dakota for my first car bu ended up with my 2006 Mazda Tribute i trim level with the 2.3L i4. its slow/ish and since its 12 years old the average MPG I get is around 20/21 combined. the seats haven't ripped and the leather stays pretty clean. the optional DVD player has jammed so nacho libre is stuck in there till the next owner decides to remove it. the FWD paired with Cooper all season tires is the perfect set up with little wind noise and amazing grip in the snowy winters and rainy rest of the year in NE Ohio. no body rust and the only rust thats on the frame is surface rust. I removed the OEM stereo and put a touch screen/back up camera set up. works beautifully other than its a some-what loose fit and when driving down the road the stereo squeaks a lot, but music covers that noise like it isn't even there. I have a faulty door ajar sensor so the open door light on the dash is on in the summer months. the door beeper also goes off like crazy too, still cannot find what latch is faulty although I think its one of the two latches in the tail gate. headlights are nice and bright and turn signals are bright also. back seats are about average for an early 2000's mid size suv. decent enough room in the cargo area also with plenty of space where the tire jack is for small things like jumper cables. it can turn on a dime and keeps at 70 Mph pretty well. although I do wish it was a six speed auto instead of the four, sometimes the transmission likes to hold first and second gear just a second or two too long. if you want an inexpensive first car for you or your child the IIHS ratings on it are pretty good. the sixteen and a half gallon fuel tank gets me about 290-320 miles till the needle is about to hit rock bottom. over all its a perfect first car for me and I've loved my little Marsha to death, gonna be sad when I trade it in but it served me well.
Majogi on February 13, 2018
Great little SUVI recently purchased a 2006 Mazda Tribute from a local dealer here in Tucson. For an older vehicle this little SUV has nice style, the interior isn't fancy but it is comfortable and nice looking. The overall ride is smooth and the car itself is easy to drive. I previously had a 99 Jeep Cherokee that I loved and I am equally as happy with this Tribute.
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