What brand is Mazda's transmission?
2 Answers
Mazda uses transmissions manufactured by Mazda Motor Corporation of Japan. Mazda Motor Corporation, founded in 1920, officially began producing small trucks in Hiroshima in 1931 and started manufacturing passenger cars in the early 1960s. It has a very comprehensive product line, covering various models such as economy cars, SUVs, and sports cars, with family vehicles consistently occupying a dominant position in its production line. Mazda transmissions include 6-speed manual transmissions, 4-speed automatic transmissions, 5-speed semi-automatic transmissions, and 4-speed semi-automatic transmissions. A manual transmission is a gear-shifting device used to alter the engine's speed and torque transmitted to the drive wheels, enabling the car to achieve different traction and speed under various conditions such as starting from a standstill, climbing hills, turning corners, and accelerating. When using Mazda's transmission in daily driving, pay attention to the following points: Do not go too long without changing the transmission fluid. Although many models now feature maintenance-free transmission fluid, 'maintenance-free' does not mean it never needs replacement. Prolonged failure to change the transmission fluid can damage internal components such as bearings and the housing. Avoid coasting in neutral for extended periods. While driving manual transmission vehicles, many 'experienced drivers' may coast in neutral, but for automatic transmission vehicles, this can cause the transmission to overheat and produce a certain impact when shifting back into D (Drive) gear. Never shift into D/R (Drive/Reverse) gear before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Many drivers, aiming to demonstrate 'smooth' operation, shift directly into reverse gear before the vehicle has fully stopped, which can cause significant damage to the transmission gears and, over time, lead to gear grinding and other malfunctions. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in D gear. When facing steep slopes, automatic transmission vehicles may overheat due to high load or shift up too early, resulting in insufficient climbing power. In such cases, use manual mode to limit lower gears or sport mode to protect the transmission. Do not tow the vehicle over long distances. If an automatic transmission vehicle breaks down, use a flatbed tow truck to move it onto the tow platform while the vehicle is in N (Neutral) gear. Do not use tow ropes or similar methods to drag the vehicle directly.
Mazda's transmissions in most modern models are their own in-house developed brand, called SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission. This is my personal experience after driving the Mazda6 for several years—exceptionally smooth and reliable, with no jerky sensations. Mazda's insistence on in-house development is quite smart, as it perfectly complements their efficient engines, significantly reducing fuel consumption, making city driving worry-free and fuel-efficient. Although some older models previously used Japanese Aisin or Jatco transmissions, now mainstream models like the Mazda3 and CX-5 all feature their own transmissions. I've studied the design principles; it uses an advanced lock-up system to reduce energy loss, providing quick acceleration response and a fatigue-free experience on long drives. If you're buying a new car, the transmission is mostly Mazda-branded, but pay attention to model differences. Manual transmissions are simpler, while automatics are more refined. I recommend test-driving to experience the dynamic performance and avoid getting old stock mixed with other brands.
