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Home >> Mazda >> 2002 >> Tribute LX, 4WD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 175 (Automatic Transaxle [Service, Removal & Installation Ja5A-El)) >> Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Inspection >> Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Level Inspection

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Level Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
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 of the thermometer probe so that the length is the same as the depth gauge, and hold the probe with a suitable clip.
  4. Insert the thermometer probe into the filler tube and measure the temperature.
  5. Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches (60-70°C (140-158°F)). 
    CAUTION:
    • Do not warm up the transaxle by performing stalls. This will damage the torque converter.
    Fig 1: Adjusting Length Of Thermometer Probe
    G01011446Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
    NOTE:
    • In some cases it may be necessary to inspect the ATF in the cool range 15-25°C (59-77°F)  before warming up the engine.
  6. While depressing the brake pedal, shift the selector lever to each range (P-M), pausing momentarily in each range.
  7. Shift back to P position.
    NOTE:
    • If the ATF level is too high or too low under hot conditions, see Fig 2.
    Fig 2: ATF Fluid Level Troubleshooting
    G01011447Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  8. While the engine is idling, verify that the ATF level is in the HOT (65°C (149°F))  range. Add the specified type of ATF, if necessary. (See AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) REPLACEMENT .)

    ATF type 

    ATF M-V 

    Fig 3: Locating ATF Temperature Ranges On Dipstick
    G01011448Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.