Ford Explorer vs Mazda Tribute
For 2005–2011 models, the Ford Explorer has 27.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 68.2 for the Mazda Tribute. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2011), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
27.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
60% fewer than the Mazda Tribute
- Complaints
- 2,425
- Sold
- 883,854
- Recall campaigns
- 7
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011. Fewest: 2005, 2007 and 2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Mazda Tribute
68.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.5× the Ford Explorer’s rate
- Complaints
- 681
- Sold
- 99,870
- Recall campaigns
- 5
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2008 and 2010. Fewest: 2006–2007 and 2011. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body and panel corrosion
Typically around 126,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Subframe, cradle and frame corrosion
Typically around 126,250 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 113,867 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 110,500 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Mazda Tribute?
For 2005–2011 models, the Ford Explorer has 27.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Mazda Tribute has 68.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Mazda Tribute?
The most-reported problem on the Mazda Tribute is body and panel corrosion, typically around 126,000 miles.
Which Ford Explorer and Mazda Tribute years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2011; Mazda Tribute: 2008 and 2010.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.