Clutch Fluid Replacement/Air Bleeding

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Mazda CX-5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

Do not allow clutch fluid to get on a painted surface. Clutch fluid contains properties which can dissolve the paint. If clutch fluid gets on a painted surface, wash it off with water immediately and wipe the area off completely.
Do not mix different types of clutch fluid, otherwise the clutch may not operate normally.
Do not reuse old clutch fluid, otherwise the clutch may not operate normally.

NOTE:

A common reserve tank is used for the clutch system and brake system.

Remove the front under cover No. 2. (See FRONT UNDER COVER No. 2 REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Remove the reserve tank cap.
Connect a vinyl tube to the bleeder screw.
Turn the bleeder screw to the fully-open position by hand and drain any clutch fluid from the bleeder screw.

Fig 1: Turning Bleeder Screw
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Turn the bleeder screw to the fully-closed position and close.
Add new clutch fluid to the MAX mark of the reserve tank.
Clutch fluid
- SAE J1703 or FMVSS116 DOT-3
Bleed the air from the clutch system.
CAUTION:
- Keep the clutch fluid level in the reserve tank at 3/4 full or more during air bleeding.
1. Connect a vinyl tube to the bleeder screw.
  
  Fig 2: Connecting Vinyl Tube To Bleeder Screw
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
2. Place the other end of the vinyl tube in a clear container, and fill clutch fluid in the container during air bleeding.
3. Working with two people, one should depress the clutch pedal a few times and then depress and hold the pedal down.
4. While one technician depresses the clutch pedal and another technician opens the bleeder screw by hand, drain any clutch fluid containing air bubbles, and then close the bleeder screw by hand again.
  
  Fig 3: Closing Bleeder Screw
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  - When closing the bleeder screw, securely close the bleeder screw until the projection is turned to the position shown in the figure.
  Fig 4: Identifying Bleeder Screw Projection
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
5. Continue to perform Steps 3 and 4 until no air comes from the vinyl hose.
6. Fill the reserve tank to MAX mark with the clutch fluid.
  Clutch fluid
  - SAE J1703 or FMVSS116 DOT-3
Install the reserve tank cap.
Install the front under cover No. 2. (See FRONT UNDER COVER No. 2 REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)