Preliminary Inspection

NOTE: Any diagnosis should begin with confirming the customer's complaint. If possible, road test vehicle first, and note transaxle performance for future reference during diagnosis.

Transmission malfunctions may be caused by poor engine performance, improper adjustments or failure of hydraulic, mechanical or electronic components. Prior to diagnosing transaxle concerns, always begin by checking fluid level, fluid condition and shift cable adjustment. Ensure engine starts with gearshift lever in Park and Neutral to ensure proper adjustment of park/neutral position switch. Ensure all system-related fuses are okay. Check wire harnesses for proper routing. Verify all harness and component connections are clean and tight. See WIRING DIAGRAMS . If area of fault cannot be located or repaired during preliminary inspection, check self-diagnostic system. See SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM . Repair as necessary.

Perform road test to determine if problem has been corrected. See ROAD TEST under PERFORMANCE TESTS. If problem still exists, diagnose by symptom. See SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS .

Fluid level should be checked with vehicle on level surface. Start engine and shift transaxle into each gear position, ensuring each gear engages. Check fluid level in Park position with engine at idle. Fluid level should be within HOT range area of dipstick. See Fig 1. Ensure the following:

Use only recommended transmission fluid. See appropriate SERVICING article.
If transaxle fluid is excessively hot, allow vehicle to cool for 30 minutes prior to checking fluid level. Excessive heat build-up due to high speed operation, trailer towing, or operation in hot weather will affect fluid level.
DO NOT overfill transaxle. Fluid will foam and may cause transaxle malfunction. Excessive fluid must be removed.
Add fluid in 1/2 pint (.25 L) increments.

Fig 1: Identifying Transaxle Dipstick Markings

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Check for MIL or O/D OFF indicator light illumination with ignition switch turned to ON position. If either MIL or O/D OFF indicators is illuminated, check PCM for DTCs. See RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. If neither MIL or O/D OFF indicators are illuminated or DTCs are not stored in PCM, see SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS .