The Mazda Tribute brake light utilizes 4157, 7443, 3157, and 2458 bulb sizes depending on the specific production version. Available data for the lighting components covers the 2001 to 2011 range.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The Mazda Tribute uses three distinct bulb types across its model years for the brake light position: the 3157, 4157, and 7443. All three are dual-filament wedge bulbs rated at 12V, which is standard for automotive applications.
The 3157 and 4157 are both T25 wedge bulbs sharing identical wattage ratings of 27W on the high filament and 7W on the low filament. Despite these shared characteristics, the two are not the same part number and are not listed as interchangeable within these specifications.
The 7443 is a T20 wedge bulb rated at 21W/5W, making it a lower-wattage unit than the T25 types used in other model years of the Mazda Tribute. The T20 and T25 designations refer to different physical sizes, which affects socket fitment.
For the 2001-2004 Mazda Tribute, the brake light position calls for the 3157 bulb. The 2005-2006 model years require the 7443, and the 2008-2011 model years require the 4157.
The dual-filament design of the 3157, 4157, and 7443 bulbs serves two functions within a single housing: the high-wattage filament activates for braking, while the low-wattage filament operates as a running or parking light.
The Center High Mount Stop Light on the 2008-2011 Mazda Tribute uses the 12961 bulb, which is a Philips part number rather than an ANSI standard designation. It is a T10 miniature wedge bulb with a W2.1x9.5d base, rated at 12V and 5W.
The Center High Mount Stop Light on the 2001-2006 Mazda Tribute uses the 168 bulb, an ANSI-standard T10 miniature wedge rated at 12V and 4.9W. Both the 168 and 12961 share the T10 form factor, though the 12961 carries a manufacturer-specific designation and a slightly higher wattage rating.
The W2.1x9.5d base specification on the 12961 describes the physical base configuration of that bulb, indicating a wedge-type contact with a 2.1mm wire width and a 9.5mm insertion depth. This base type is common across many T10 miniature wedge bulbs used in automotive interiors and auxiliary lighting.
The 168 bulb used in the Center High Mount Stop Light position for 2001-2006 is a single-filament unit, consistent with its role as a dedicated stop light rather than a combined stop and running light.
Substituting a T20 bulb such as the 7443 into a socket specified for a T25 bulb such as the 3157 or 4157 would present a fitment conflict, as the physical housing sizes differ between the two wedge series.