Automotive
The Mazda Tribute, developed in collaboration with Ford and based on the Ford Escape platform, offered drivers a versatile compact SUV with a comfortable, roomy interior and strong build quality. Originally positioned as Mazda’s entry in the growing compact crossover segment, the Tribute shared much of its underpinnings with the Escape but featured Mazda-specific tuning and styling elements, especially in earlier model years.
Available in three trim levels - DX, LX, and ES - the Tribute offered both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive options. The base DX model came equipped with a 130-horsepower inline-four engine and a 5-speed manual transmission, which was underwhelming in power but economical for city driving. For buyers seeking more performance, Mazda offered a 200-horsepower V6 engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission - available at an added cost. This V6 engine was a better match for the Tribute's size and weight, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo.
The LX trim added much-needed comfort and utility features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, fog lights, a cargo cover, and split-folding rear seats for better storage flexibility. These features helped position the Tribute as a practical everyday vehicle for families and commuters alike.
At SherlockLock, we frequently support Mazda Tribute owners with automotive locksmith services tailored to vehicles in this generation. Whether you're dealing with key fob issues, worn ignition cylinders, or require a complete lock change, our experienced technicians offer fast, affordable solutions. For models with remote entry, we also provide keyless remote programming and emergency unlocking - ideal for when your Tribute’s central locking system malfunctions or you’re locked out on the go.
The second-generation Tribute, introduced at the 2007 Montreal International Auto Show, arrived at a time of change for Mazda and Ford. While their partnership was winding down, the vehicle was still developed under the joint engineering program and continued to share production lines with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. Although Mazda was starting to evolve its design language during this period, the Tribute retained much of its Ford-derived styling due to platform and tooling constraints.
In 2008, Mazda rolled out a significantly updated Tribute. Though still built on the existing CD2 platform, this update marked the addition of a hybrid powertrain, previously restricted to Ford and Mercury models. With rising fuel costs and increasing environmental awareness, the Tribute Hybrid became a valuable offering for drivers looking for eco-friendly options in a compact SUV.
To minimize production costs, styling changes for the 2009 hybrid variant were subtle - slightly revised front-end aesthetics and interior refinements - while mechanical upgrades were focused on fuel economy and emissions. The hybrid system, a parallel setup similar to the Escape Hybrid’s, provided smooth electric-gasoline transitions, making the Tribute Hybrid a solid choice for urban commuters and eco-conscious drivers.
As with all electrified and keyless-entry vehicles, SherlockLock supports Tribute Hybrid owners with specialized locksmith solutions. These include high-security key cutting, remote battery replacement, transponder key reprogramming, and ignition switch repair - ensuring that Tribute owners throughout Massachusetts and Greater Boston stay mobile, secure, and worry-free.
Whether you drive a first-generation DX or a fully equipped Tribute Hybrid, SherlockLock is your trusted locksmith partner. Our automotive locksmith team understands the unique lock and ignition setups across all Tribute model years and provides prompt, reliable service - whether you're locked out, need a spare key, or require ignition servicing.
