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.

Inspect the ATF for the following to determine whether the transaxle should be disassembled.
- The ATF is muddy.
- The ATF smells strange or unusual.

ATF CONDITION

Condition			Possible cause
Clear dark red		Normal	-
Light red (pink)		Contaminated with water	Damaged oil cooler Poor filler tube installation: Problem could occur to parts inside the transaxle due to water contamination.If necessary, replace the transaxle.
Reddish brown	Has burnt smell and metal particles are found	Deteriorated ATF	Defective powertrain components inside the transaxle: Particles cause wide range of problems by clogging the oil pipe, control valve body and oil cooler. A large amount of metal particles are found. If necessary, replace the transaxle. Flush the system due to possible clogging of the oil pipe or oil cooler.
Reddish brown	Has no burnt smell	Normal	Discoloration by oxidation