Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Condition Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 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 unusual.

Fig 1: ATF Condition Trouble Shooting Table

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.