The Mazda Tribute was produced from 2001 to 2011 as a compact SUV with multiple engine configurations. Using the correct oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for maintaining engine performance and preventing premature wear. This guide provides complete oil specifications for all Mazda Tribute model years with detailed maintenance recommendations.
The Mazda Tribute utilized three main engine families during its production run: a 2.0L inline-four from 2001-2004, a 2.3L inline-four from 2005-2008, and a 2.5L inline-four from 2009-2011. The 3.0L V6 option remained available throughout the entire production period with capacity and specification updates in 2009. Oil capacities range from 4.5 quarts for four-cylinder models to 6.0 quarts for V6 variants.
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2011 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (L5-VE) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2011 Mazda Tribute features an updated 2.5L inline-four producing 171 horsepower or a 3.0L V6 generating 240 horsepower. The four-cylinder engine requires 4.8 quarts of 5W-20 full synthetic oil, while the V6 takes 6.0 quarts.
2010 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (L5-VE) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2010 Mazda Tribute continues with the same engine options as 2009, requiring 4.8 quarts for the 2.5L four-cylinder and 6.0 quarts for the 3.0L V6. Mazda recommends using 5W-20 viscosity oil for optimal engine protection and fuel efficiency.
2009 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (L5-VE) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2009 model year introduced significant mechanical upgrades with a new 2.5L inline-four replacing the 2.3L engine. The 2.5L engine requires approximately 4.8 quarts of 5W-20 oil with filter replacement.
2008 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L I4 (L3) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2008 Mazda Tribute received exterior and interior updates while retaining the 2.3L four-cylinder and 3.0L V6 engines. The 2.3L requires 4.5 quarts and the V6 requires 6.0 quarts of 5W-20 oil.
2007 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L I4 (L3) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2007 Mazda Tribute features the 2.3L inline-four producing 153 horsepower or the 3.0L V6 with 200 horsepower. Both engines use 5W-20 viscosity oil for proper lubrication and protection.
2006 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L I4 (L3) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2006 Mazda Tribute uses the same 2.3L and 3.0L engine configurations as 2005 models. Oil capacity remains 4.5 quarts for the four-cylinder and 6.0 quarts for the V6 with 5W-20 viscosity recommended.
2005 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L I4 (L3) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2005 model year introduced the Mazda-built 2.3L inline-four engine, replacing the previous 2.0L unit. This engine requires 4.5 quarts of 5W-20 oil, while the 3.0L V6 continues with a 6.0-quart capacity.
2004 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 (YF) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2004 Mazda Tribute represents the final year for the 2.0L Ford Zetec engine. Both the 2.0L four-cylinder and 3.0L V6 use 5W-20 oil with capacities of 4.5 and 6.0 quarts respectively.
2003 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 (YF) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2003 Mazda Tribute offers the 2.0L inline-four with 130 horsepower or the 3.0L V6 with 200 horsepower. The Motorcraft FL820S oil filter is the recommended replacement part for proper filtration.
2002 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 (YF) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The 2002 Mazda Tribute continues with the 2.0L and 3.0L engine options from the launch year. Oil specifications remain consistent with 4.5 quarts for four-cylinder models and 6.0 quarts for V6 models using 5W-20 viscosity.
2001 Mazda Tribute Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 (YF) / 3.0L V6 (AJ) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.5 qt (4.3 L) / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic / Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 18-20 lb-ft (24-27 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH10575, Purolator L14476 |
The inaugural 2001 Mazda Tribute debuted with a 2.0L Ford Zetec four-cylinder producing 130 horsepower and a 3.0L Ford Duratec V6 with 200 horsepower. The 2.0L engine requires 4.5 quarts while the V6 needs 6.0 quarts of 5W-20 motor oil.
Oil Maintenance and Service Tips
Checking Oil Level
Check engine oil when the vehicle is on level ground and the engine is warm but off for at least five minutes. The dipstick shows minimum and maximum marks, with proper level between these indicators. Oil level should not exceed the maximum mark to prevent overfilling complications.
Oil Change Best Practices
Replace both engine oil and oil filter during each service interval. For normal driving conditions, change oil every 7,500 miles or six months for 2009-2011 models. Earlier model years benefit from 5,000-mile intervals or six months, whichever comes first.
Severe Driving Conditions
Frequent short trips, extended idling, or towing requires more frequent oil changes at 3,000-5,000 mile intervals. These conditions accelerate oil degradation and increase engine wear. Always torque the drain plug to 18-20 lb-ft to prevent leaks and pan damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of oil does a Mazda Tribute use?
The Mazda Tribute uses SAE 5W-20 motor oil across all model years from 2001-2011. Full synthetic or synthetic blend oil provides optimal protection and performance. This viscosity grade ensures proper lubrication in both cold starts and high operating temperatures.
How much oil does a Mazda Tribute take?
Four-cylinder Mazda Tribute models require 4.5-4.8 quarts depending on engine size, while V6 models need 6.0 quarts with filter replacement. The 2.0L and 2.3L engines use 4.5 quarts, while the 2.5L requires 4.8 quarts. Always verify capacity in your owner’s manual for specific model year confirmation.
What is the recommended oil type for a Mazda Tribute?
Mazda recommends full synthetic or synthetic blend motor oil meeting API SL or higher specifications. Using quality oil maintains engine cleanliness and reduces wear over extended drain intervals. Genuine Mazda oil or equivalent products meeting manufacturer specifications ensure proper engine protection.
What is the oil change interval for a Mazda Tribute?
Newer Mazda Tribute models from 2009-2011 require oil changes every 7,500 miles or six months. Earlier models from 2001-2008 benefit from 5,000-mile intervals or six months under normal conditions. Severe driving conditions necessitate more frequent changes at 3,000-5,000 mile intervals.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in my Mazda Tribute?
While 5W-30 may function in certain conditions, Mazda specifies 5W-20 viscosity for optimal fuel economy and engine protection. Using the manufacturer-recommended viscosity ensures proper oil pressure and lubrication throughout the engine. Deviating from specifications may affect warranty coverage and long-term reliability.
What oil filter fits the Mazda Tribute?
The Motorcraft FL820S is the recommended oil filter for Mazda Tribute four-cylinder engines. Equivalent aftermarket options include Fram PH10575 and Purolator L14476. Always replace the oil filter during each oil change for maximum filtration efficiency.
Conclusion
Maintaining proper oil levels with the correct viscosity protects your Mazda Tribute engine from premature wear and ensures reliable performance. Four-cylinder models require 4.5-4.8 quarts while V6 variants need 6.0 quarts of 5W-20 motor oil. Following manufacturer-recommended service intervals and using quality synthetic oil extends engine life and maintains optimal fuel economy. Regular oil changes remain the most cost-effective maintenance practice for preserving your Mazda Tribute’s longevity.
