ATF Level Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda 626. 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.

Park the vehicle on level ground.
Apply the parking brake and position wheel chocks securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

Fig 1: Engaging Parking Break With Wheels Chocked
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Adjust the thermistor probe to the same length as the dipstick and hold the probe with a paper holder. Insert into the filler tube and measure the temperature.

Fig 2: Adjusting Thermistor Probe To The Length Of Dipstick
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches 60-70 °C {140-158 °F}.
CAUTION:
- Do not warm the transaxle by performing stalls. This will damage the torque converter.
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.
While depressing the brake pedal, shift the selector lever to each range (P-1), pausing momentarily in each range.

Fig 3: Selecting Gear Shift Lever Positions
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Shift back to P position.
NOTE:
- If the ATF level is too high or too low when hot, the following problems may be the cause;
Fig 4: ATF Levels - Conditions & Possible Causes
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 5: Identifying ATF Dipstick Cool & Hot Range Levels
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Ensure that the ATF level is in the HOT (65 °C {149 °F}) range. Add the ATF specified type of, if necessary. See eAUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) REPLACEMENT .
ATF Type

ATF (e.g. DexronregIII)