Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Condition Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- One way of determining whether the transaxle should be disassembled is by noting.
- If the ATF is muddy or varnished
- If the ATF smells strange or unusualCONDITION AND POSSIBLE CAUSE
ATF Condition Possible cause Clear red Normal - Light red pink Contaminated with water - Broken oil cooler inside of radiator
- Poor filler tube installation
- Problem could be occurring to parts inside the transaxle by water contamination. It is necessary to overhaul transaxle and detect defected parts. If necessary, exchange transaxle
Reddish brown Has burnt smell and metal specks are found Deteriorated ATF - Defect powertrain components inside of transaxle: Specks cause wide range of problems by plugging up in oil pipe, control valve body and oil cooler in radiator
- When large amount of metal 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.
Has no burnt smell Normal - Discoloration by oxidation