The transmission fluid in your Mazda's automatic or manual transmission protects all the internal parts from wear and friction, along with keeping the transmission cool.
Read on as we share in detail why it's important for owners to maintain their Mazda's transmission fluid in good condition to prevent expensive mechanical breakdowns and hopefully not end up stranded on the roadside when your Mazda's transmission fails.
What is Mazda Transmission Fluid?
Mazda's transmission fluid can be either formulated specially for their SKYACTIV Drive automatic transmissions, or their SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmissions.
These automatic transmissions combine the best aspects of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), dual-clutch automated manual transmission, and traditional automatic transmission.
Mazda's advanced automatic transmission technology requires the use of "ATF-FZ" fluids only to fill or top off the fluid level. The ATF-FZ fluid is blue-colored for easy identification and is specially formulated for use in Mazda's SKYACTIV-DRIVE series of auto transmissions. It features a low-viscosity formula with less friction, offering enhanced fuel economy.
Mazda's SKYACTIV manual transmission or SKYACTIV-MT compact, light, and efficient traditional manual transmission requires the use of Mazda Long Life Gear Oil G7 that assists with low fuel cost and provides optimum shift-feel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Transmission Fluid
Regular checks of your Mazda transmission fluid are relatively easy by following the simple steps outlined below:
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
Park your vehicle on a flat surface and start the vehicle's engine to warm up the fluids for a few minutes. To ensure your safety, always ensure that the transmission is in "park" when doing so, and open the hood.
2. Locate the Transmission Dipstick
The easiest way to find your Mazda transmission dipstick is to check in your owner's manual, which will show you where to look.
3. Remove the Dipstick
The transmission dipstick works pretty much like the one for checking engine oil and on Mazdas equipped with SKYACTIV AT transmissions, the dipstick bolt is first removed, then the dipstick is removed. The dipstick is marked with an "FZ" on SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmissions.
4. Check Fluid Level
Wipe off the fluid on the dipstick as you remove it, and then place it back in the tube to check how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick by comparing it against the "full" and "low" or "fill" marks on the dipstick.
5. Assess Fluid Condition
A quick visual inspection will reveal any problems with the color or the presence of any particles.
Simply rubbing the fluid between your fingers should also show if any particles or grime are in the fluid.
Detection of any particles will mean that the fluid needs replacing and the transmission is to be serviced to avoid any damage.
Any burnt smells detected from the fluid will also necessitate the replacement of the transmission fluid.
Adding Mazda Transmission Fluid
Mazda transmission fluid levels found to be below the "low" level indicator or at the "fill" mark means that a top-up of fluid is required in order to avoid any possible transmission breakdown.
How to Add Fluid Correctly
A long funnel should be inserted into the transmission fluid dipstick hole and fluid added carefully in small increments while regularly rechecking the level each time until the fluid level reaches the full line.
Recommended Fluid Types
As mentioned, Mazda's SKYACTIV technology, seen in their automatic and manual transmissions, requires the correct fluids to meet Mazda's OEM specifications and ensure the proper functioning of the transmission.
In fact, Mazda vehicles with SKYACTIV technology utilize lifetime transmission fluid. If a top-up of fluid is necessary, Mazda requires the use of recommended Mazda Genuine ATF-FZ fluid only to fill or top off the fluid level. Blue in color for easy identification and formulated for use in Mazda's SKYACTIV-DRIVE series of auto transmissions, this fluid is a low-viscosity formulation offering less internal friction of components for enhanced fuel economy.
Mazda vehicles with manual transmissions should be maintained with the recommended Mazda Long Life Gear Oil G7. Where Mazda Long Life Gear Oil G7 is not readily available, owners can also use standard gearbox oil of API Service GL-4 (SAE 75W-80) specification.
When to Seek Professional Help
Regular checking of your Mazda's transmission fluid by owners will ensure that your vehicle's transmission continues to perform at its best. However, there are times when a little bit of professional help is needed if you start to experience issues.
Signs of Transmission Issues
Low transmission fluid levels can cause the transmission to slip out of gear or not be able to change gear.
Insufficient acceleration or the ability to maintain forward momentum is not only problematic but can place drivers at risk of an accident.
Unusual burning smells are also a dead giveaway that your transmission is in need of attention. Overheating of the transmission fluid could be the result of dirty or low fluid levels.
Low fluid levels may cause any unusual vibrations emanating from the drivetrain. The continued operation of the transmission may well result in serious damage and costly repairs to internal components.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
It is imperative to regularly check your Mazda transmission fluid to make sure that your transmission continues to give you many more miles of problem-free use.
Regular checking of transmission fluid for both low fluid levels and checking for any unusual color or smell of the fluid will go a long way to preventing any frustrating breakdowns and subsequent heavy repair bills.
A low fluid level in your transmission can cause overheating, failure to change gears, and slipping out of gear while driving, all leading to damage to the gearbox and the risk of being left stranded on the roadside.
Check Your Mazda Transmission Fluid with Central Mazda
Contact the Mazda service department at Central Mazda in Plainfield, CT, to book your vehicle's next scheduled service.
Our Mazda-trained technicians are perfectionists who know your Mazda better than anyone else. Experience the most convenient service experience possible when you allow us to take complete care of your Mazdas transmission service needs.
