Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Level Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MPV. 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.
Adjust the length of the thermistor probe measure to the measure same as the dipstick and hold the probe with a paper holder.
Insert into the filler tube and measure the temperature.
Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches (60- 70 °C {140-158 °F}) .

Fig 1: Adjusting Length Of Thermistor Probe To That Of Dipstick
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
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-2), pausing momentarily in each range.

Shift back to P position.

NOTE:

If the ATF level is too high or too low in hot condition, the following problems may be the cause.

ATF LEVEL CONDITIONS

ATF level	Condition	Possible cause
Too low	Line pressure is lower than the specification	Air in transaxle oil passage due to slipping or damaged clutch mechanism
Too high	ATF is hot	ATF deteriorated due to slipping clutch or stuck valve

While the engine is idling, verify that the ATF level is in the HOT (65 °C {149 °F}) range. Add the ATF specified type of, if necessary. (See AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) REPLACEMENT .)
ATF type
1. ATF M-III or equivalent
Fig 2: Identifying ATF Temperature Range
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.