How often should the transmission fluid be changed for the Mazda 3 Axela?
3 Answers
The transmission fluid for the Mazda 3 Axela should be changed every 3 years or 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The functions of transmission fluid are: 1. To keep the shifting system clean; 2. To lubricate the transmission components. Taking the 2020 Mazda 3 Axela as an example, it is a compact car with body dimensions of 4662mm in length, 1797mm in width, 1445mm in height, a wheelbase of 2726mm, and a minimum ground clearance of 135mm. The 2020 Mazda 3 Axela is equipped with a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 117ps, a maximum torque of 148Nm, and a maximum power of 86kW.
I've been driving my Mazda Axela for several years now, and following the manual's recommendation to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 kilometers or 5 years has been a worry-free and reliable experience. I remember once when I forgot to change the fluid on time during a long trip, and the gear shifts started feeling rough. When I took it to the repair shop, the fluid had turned black with a lot of impurities. A technician friend told me that if not changed promptly, insufficient lubrication could accelerate gear wear and even cause the transmission to overheat and break down. Now, I make it a habit to check the fluid level regularly—just using a dipstick to ensure the fluid remains clear and bright. If you mostly drive in congested city traffic, the fluid tends to degrade faster, so it's better to change it a bit earlier. In short, sticking to the manufacturer's manual is always the right move. Don’t skimp on maintenance to save a little money, or you’ll end up with costly and troublesome repairs later.
In the automotive repair industry for a long time, I've encountered many Mazda Axela owners asking about transmission fluid. The standard is to change it every 60,000 kilometers. Over time, the fluid oxidizes and thickens, reducing its lubricating effectiveness, which not only affects gear shifting smoothness but can also cause internal transmission overheating and damage. I often remind everyone that daily driving conditions are also crucial; for example, frequent short trips or heavy loads can quickly dirty the fluid. If you're doing it yourself, you can use the dipstick to check the fluid level and color—clear is still good, but if it's cloudy or black, it's time for a change. Prevention is key; spending a little on fluid changes can prevent major issues like gear slippage or parking failure. If owners are unsure, bringing the car to a shop for a simple check is safe and worry-free.
