Automatic transaxle

Automatic transaxle fluid (atf) inspection

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1special tools
Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Condition Inspection

One way of determining whether the transaxle should be disassembled is by noting:

  • If the ATF is muddy or varnished.
  • If the ATF smells strange or unusual.
ATF Condition

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Level Inspection Caution
  • The ATF amount varies according to ATF's temperature. Therefore, when checking the ATF level or replacing the ATF, use a thermometer to measure the temperature then adjust the ATF amount to the specified level according to the specified temperature.

1. Park the vehicle on level ground.

2. Apply the parking brake and position wheel chocks securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

3. Adjust the length or thermistor probe to measure the same depth as the depth gauge and hold the probe with a paper holder. Insert into the filler tube and measure the temperature.

  • If necessary, inspect the ATF before warming up the engine. In this case, use the cool range.15-25 ° C {59-77 ° F}

4. Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches 60-70 °C {140-158 ° F}.

5. Shift the selector lever and pause momentarily in each range (DL) while depressing the brake pedal.

6. Shift the selector lever to P position.

7. Verify that the ATF level is in the HOT range (65 °C{149 °F}) while the engine is idling.

  • If necessary, add ATF to the specification.
ATF type
ATF M-V

Test yourself

A quick Mazda 6 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.