Before you begin:
* Consult your owner's manual: This is crucial. It will provide specific information for your vehicle, including torque specifications, fluid type and capacity, and location of the drain and fill plugs.
* Gather necessary tools and supplies: This will include a drain pan, torque wrench, new ATF fluid (consult your manual for the correct type and amount), funnel, jack and jack stands (essential for safety!), sockets and wrenches (sizes will vary depending on your car), and possibly a pump to help refill the transmission. You may also need new transmission pan gasket and filter.
* Warm up the transmission: Run the engine and let the transmission warm up to operating temperature. This will make the fluid flow more easily.
* Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Ensure the car is securely supported on jack stands, not just the jack.
General Procedure (Consult your manual for specifics):
1. Locate the transmission pan: This is typically located underneath the vehicle, near the transmission.
2. Position the drain pan: Place the drain pan under the transmission pan's drain plug.
3. Remove the drain plug: Carefully remove the drain plug using the appropriate socket and wrench. Let the fluid drain completely. This can take some time.
4. Remove the transmission pan: Once the fluid has drained, you'll likely need to remove the transmission pan itself. This involves removing several bolts. Be careful not to lose any of these bolts, and be aware that some fluid will still remain in the pan. Replace the transmission pan gasket.
5. Replace the transmission filter (if applicable): Some Mazda 6 models have an external transmission filter; others have the filter integrated into the pan. If it's a separate filter, replace it now.
6. Clean the transmission pan: Clean any debris from the transmission pan.
7. Reinstall the transmission pan: Carefully reinstall the transmission pan with a new gasket, and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (use a torque wrench).
8. Locate the transmission fill plug: This is usually on the side of the transmission.
9. Refill the transmission: Using a funnel, carefully add the specified amount of new ATF fluid. You may need to add fluid gradually, checking the fluid level frequently. The level check method varies depending on your model—some use a dipstick, some require specialized tools. Consult your manual.
10. Check fluid level: Once you've added the correct amount of fluid, check the level again. This is very important to prevent overfilling, which can cause damage.
11. Start the engine and check for leaks: Run the engine for a few minutes, then check for any leaks around the transmission pan and fill plug.
12. Check fluid level again: After running the engine, check the fluid level again, and top off if necessary.
Important Considerations:
* Partial vs. Complete Fluid Change: A complete fluid change involves multiple flushes, which are difficult to perform without specialized equipment. A partial change, as described above, is simpler, but it doesn't replace all the fluid.
* Fluid Type: Use the correct type and amount of ATF specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage your transmission.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the correct specifications. Over-tightening can damage the transmission pan or its gasket.
Again, this is a general overview. It is highly recommended that you consult your owner's manual and consider seeking professional help for this task. Improper fluid changes can lead to significant transmission damage and costly repairs.
