Checking Fluid Level & Condition

CAUTION: If the ATF level is too low in a HOT condition, air may enter in transaxle oil passage due to slipping or damaged clutch mechanism. If the ATF level is too high in a HOT condition, the ATF may deteriorate due to a slipping clutch or stuck valve.

NOTE: The ATF amount varies according to ATF 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.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Apply the parking brake and position wheel chocks securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Adjust the length of the thermistor probe to the same length as the dipstick. Hold the probe with a paper holder and insert the thermistor probe into the filler tube.

CAUTION: Do not warm the transaxle by performing stall tests. This will damage the torque converter.

NOTE: In some cases it may be necessary to inspect the ATF in the cool range of 59-77°F (15-25°C), before warming up the engine.

Allow engine to warm up to normal operating temperature. ATF temperature should be 140-158°F (60-70°C). While depressing the brake pedal, shift the gearshift lever to each range, pausing momentarily in each range.
While the engine is idling, verify that the ATF level is in the HOT range, approximately 149°F (65°C) on the dipstick. See Fig 1 . Add fluid as necessary. See RECOMMENDED FLUID . DO NOT overfill. If fluid level is to low, check condition of fluid for contamination or burnt smell. See FLUID CONDITION table. If fluid is to high, drain excess fluid. See DRAINING & REFILLING .

FLUID CONDITION

Condition ⁽¹⁾

Possible Cause

Clear Red

Normal

Light Red (Pink)

⁽²⁾ Contaminated With Water From Broken Oil Cooler Inside Of Radiator Or Poor Filler Tube Installation.

Reddish Brown With Burnt Smell & Metal Specks Are Found

⁽³⁾ Deteriorated ATF From Defect Of Powertrain Components Inside Of Transaxle. Specks Can Cause A Wide Range Of Problems By Plugging Up Oil Pipes, Control Valve Body & Oil Cooler In Radiator.

Reddish Brown & No Burnt Smell

Normal Discoloration Caused By Oxidation.

⁽¹⁾	If the ATF condition is a Dark color, overhaul transaxle and repair or replace parts if necessary. If the ATF condition is a Light Pink and/or Reddish brown condition, replace ATF.

⁽²⁾	Problem could be occurring to parts inside the transaxle by water contamination. If necessary, exchange transaxle.

⁽³⁾	When large amount of metal specks are found. Exchange transaxle if necessary. Implement flushing operation as there is a possibility to have specks plugging up oil pipe and/or oil cooler inside of radiator.

Fig 1: Identifying Cool & Hot Range On Dipstick

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.