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Mazda 3 2001: Changing transmission fluid

Asked by Mike Fenton

We were told originally that the auto transmission in our 2001 Mazda 3 was sealed and not to change fluid. Is this true? It has done 270,000kms with no problems.

Answered by CarsGuide

14 Jul 2017 Graham Smith

Virtually all of today’s automatic transmissions are ‘sealed for life’. That is, they are filled with fluid at the factory and never need checking or topping up with fluid. But the fluid does get hot and can be contaminated over time, so it’s a good idea to have the fluid changed regularly. Some auto transmission mechanics will say it should be done every 20,000 km or so, or every year, others will say something different. It is more important if a car has been used for towing, because the fluid comes under greater stress in that situation. But in your case, I would suggest you leave well enough alone and not worry about it.

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