Checking Fluid Level & Condition

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: 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: One way of determining whether the transaxle should be disassembled is by noting if the ATF is muddy, varnished or smells strange or unusual.

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 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 transaxle filler tube.

NOTE: On models with GF4A-EL, it may be necessary to inspect the ATF in the cool range of 59-77°F (15-25°C), before warming up the engine.

Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches 150-170°F (66-77°C). While depressing the brake pedal, move the gearshift lever to each range (Park to Low), pausing momentarily in each range. Shift back to the Park position. On models with GF4A-EL, verify that the ATF level is in HOT range on dipstick while the engine is idling. SeeFig 1 . On models with LA4A-EL, verify that the ATF level is between MIN. and MAX. on dipstick while the engine is idling. See Fig 2 .
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⁾ Poor Breather Hose Installation Or 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, 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 specks are found, overhaul transaxle and detect defected parts. If necessary, exchange transaxle. 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 Transaxle Dipstick Markings (GA4A-EL)

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 2: Identifying Transaxle Dipstick Markings (LA4A-EL)

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.