Mazda 2003 Miata MX-5, Owner'S Manual

Page: 199 / 257

8-20
Maintenance and Care
Owner Maintenance
Form No. 8R09-EA-02G
3. Remove the filler cap and attached
dipstick.
4. Wipe them clean and put them back.
5. Remove again and inspect the level.
6. It must be between H and L. Add fluid
if necessary.
Don’t overfill.
If new fluid is required frequently, consult
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
▼
Inspecting Automatic
Transmission Fluid Level
The automatic transmission fluid level
should be inspected regularly. Measure it
as described below.
The volume of fluid changes with the
temperature. For that reason, it is best to
examine the level after having driven the
vehicle for 15 minutes. If necessary,
however, it can also be inspected without
driving when the outside temperature is
above 20°C (70°F).
1. Park on a level surface and set the
parking brake firmly.
2. Idle the engine. Push down on the
brake pedal.
3. Move the shift lever through all ranges
and set it at P.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid (ATF)
•
Low fluid level causes transmission
slippage. Overfilling can cause
foaming, loss of fluid, and
transmission malfunction.
•
Use specified fluid (page 10-4). A
nonspecified fluid could result in
transmission malfunction and
failure.
•
The vehicle should not be driven if
the fluid level is below the bottom
of the dipstick and the outside
temperature is above 20°C (70°F),
or if evident automatic transmission
fluid leaks are found.
CAUTION
J07R_8R09_EA_02G.book Page 20 Monday, July 1, 2002 11:30 AM