Retainer Removal Note

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:

Be sure to follow the removal procedures below to prevent the leakage of blow-by gas caused by the damage to the tab of the oil separator or the oil separator itself.

Insert a flat blade screwdriver with its tip wrapped in a shop rag into the gap between the retainer and the oil separator as shown in the figure.

Fig 1: Inserting Flat Blade Screwdriver Into Gap Between Retainer And Oil Separator
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Spread the side surface of the retainer outward to dismount it with attention to the tab.