Mazda recently announced it was recalling 109,000 Mazda Tributes because of a potential rusting problem to the frame parts in states where road salt is heavily used to combat snowy conditions.  The rusting problems could result in steering problems it is said.

The recall covers twenty states and Washington D.C., and comes on the heels of a Ford Escape recall earlier in April that affected 386,000 of those compact SUVs.  As you may or may not know, the Ford Escape and the Mazda Tribute are virtually identical compact SUVs, built as a partnership project between Mazda and Ford.

There have been no reported accidents because of this rusting problem and the recall is purely precautionary at this stage.

The Mazda Tribute was produced from 2001 to 2011, and at the time of its introduction was one of the best buys for the money for anyone looking for a great deal on a compact SUV.  With its 200 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine, it was one of the most powerful in its class, and it handled so well it was called the Miata of SUVs.  Unfortunately, over the span of its life, the competition caught up to it and surpassed it, but still, if you are looking for a great used SUV, the Mazda Tribute is well-worth a look and test drive.

One of the advantages of owning a Mazda Tribute is the fact that its parts are virtually interchangeable with the Ford Escape, so finding replacement parts is a fairly easy process.  Sure, you could pay top dollar for replacement parts at a dealership or auto parts store, but who really wants to pay top dollar in these economic times?  Your best bet is to go to your local salvage yard, like All Import Auto Parts, and pick up your Tribute used parts there for great savings.

At your local salvage yard you will find great deals on wheels, brakes, tires, stereo equipment, transmissions, engines….everything you need while doing your DIY car repair projects, and you will pay a fraction of the cost for those parts.  Why pay more when it isn’t necessary, right?

Remember, if you are in the market for a great handling and reliable compact SUV, then take a look at the Mazda Tribute, and if you are in the market for quality used auto parts, take a look at All Import Auto Parts.  You really can’t go wrong with either decision.