
It should be changed every two years or every 40,000 kilometers. When changing the transmission fluid, the oil filter screen should also be replaced, as it cannot be thoroughly cleaned and must be replaced. Below are the functions and characteristics of transmission fluid: Functions of transmission fluid: Transmission fluid is an oil product that keeps the gear system clean, ensuring the normal operation of the transmission and extending the service life of the transmission components. Characteristics of transmission fluid: Most transmission fluids can be used in automatic transmissions available on the market. In fact, each automatic transmission design has different technical requirements. Even the same model of transmission configured in different vehicle models will have differences in torque, weight, speed, structure, etc. Therefore, the original manufacturer specifies its own dedicated transmission fluid. Different transmission fluids are one of the factors affecting the quality of gear shifting.

Over the years of driving my Mazda6 (Atenza), I've learned that transmission fluid shouldn't be changed strictly by mileage. From my experience, automatic transmissions need replacement every 60,000 to 80,000 km, while manuals can last up to 100,000 km. It really depends on driving habits - if you're constantly stuck in city traffic with frequent acceleration and braking, the transmission heats up quickly, causing faster fluid degradation. Once the oil film breaks down, metal particles start grinding the gears. Last year at 70,000 km, I noticed obvious hesitation during downshifts, but after changing the fluid, it became as smooth as when the car was new. Always use genuine or M-V certified fluid - these Skyactiv transmissions are precision machines that demand quality.

Having repaired Mazdas for ten years, the transmission maintenance for the Atenza needs to be discussed case by case. The Skyactiv 6AT is particularly delicate, with the official recommendation to change the oil at 60,000 kilometers. However, tests show that the oil's oxidation resistance significantly declines after 80,000 kilometers. Manual transmission (MT) models can stretch to 100,000 kilometers. Key checks include: smelling for a burnt odor after aggressive driving, checking if gear shifts are rough when the car is cold, and seeing if any warning lights flash on the dashboard. Too many owners wait until the transmission starts slipping before coming in for repairs, only to find that the overhaul costs could cover ten oil changes. It's advisable to replace the filter and oil pan gasket at the same time.


