Honda
Element
Owner report available
Mazda
Tribute
Owner report available
Honda Element vs Mazda Tribute
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mazda Tribute comes out ahead of the Honda Element on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Element
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among long-term owners, characterized by deep affection for the vehicle's unique practicality, durability, and versatility. The Element is consistently praised for its cavernous, configurable interior with a flat, rubberized floor, exceptional cargo capacity (including the ability to hold bicycles upright), and easy-to-clean surfaces ideal for pets, outdoor gear, and work materials. Its boxy design is celebrated for providing excellent outward visibility and a distinctive appearance.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" model year or trim. Owner discussions reference vehicles from 2003 through 2011 without singling out a specific year as superior, though the 2011 model is noted as the final year produced.
Known issues
- Engine misfires (codes P0302, P0303): recurrent issue linked to ignition coils, spark plugs, or more serious internal problems like valve issues or head gasket failure. Frequency: recurrent.
- Oil consumption/burning: very high oil consumption (2-3 quarts in 500 miles) reported in some high-mileage examples, often accompanied by knocking. Frequency: recurrent.
- Overheating/cooling system problems: coolant overflow, suspected cracked block or head gasket failure, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
Tribute
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific vehicle's age, maintenance history, and powertrain. The Tribute is generally acknowledged as a practical, value-oriented compact SUV, praised by some long-term owners for its reliability, comfortable ride, good visibility, and solid driver dynamics. Positive feedback often highlights specific examples of high mileage (200,000+ miles/322,000+ km) with minimal major repairs.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Feedback suggests the manual transmission models avoid the pervasive automatic transmission issues.
Known issues
- Automatic transmission failure: includes slipping, sudden engagement of neutral while driving, hard shifting, and complete failure. Rebuilt transmissions are commonly mentioned. Frequency: very frequent.
- Severe rust/corrosion: specifically on rear strut towers, wheel wells, undercarriage, and exhaust components. Can lead to structural failure (e.g., shock tower tearing through). Frequency: very frequent.
- Engine-specific problems: * V6 (3.0L Duratec) water pump failure: can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. Frequency: recurrent. * V6 and 4-cylinder ignition coil failures: coils fail frequently due to a noted bad design.
The verdict
The Mazda Tribute is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Honda Element, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Honda Element is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda Element or the Mazda Tribute?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Honda Element and the Mazda Tribute. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Honda Element or the Mazda Tribute?
The Mazda Tribute seats more passengers than the Honda Element on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Honda Element is classed as a SUV, the Mazda Tribute as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Honda Element or the Mazda Tribute?
The EPA rates the 2011 Honda Element at 20–22 mpg combined and the 2011 Mazda Tribute at 20–32 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Honda Element or the Mazda Tribute?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mazda Tribute than the Honda Element. See the known issues comparison above.