glennco

Recently we've been noticing some rough shifts from 1st to 2nd when our 2005 3s is cold. I had it into the dealer for another service(bad water pump already), and the dealer tried to sell me on an ATF flush. So I went and looked in the manual and can't find anything regarding an ATF replacement interval anywhere.

I would have to think you folks have run into this? Has anyone talked to Mazda about the lack of a recommended replacement interval?

thanks,

MazMan

ok i have the same problem except its not just when the engine is cold or maybe it is, i havent really payed attention as to when it does it if the engine is cold or hot so ill make sure about that. and also il go ahead and take it to the dealer and c wat they say and give you a heads up later

KrayzieFox

I change my ATF every 30K miles. It's probably not necessary to change that often, but I do it just to be safe.

MazMan

ok wait a min. lol i just realized wat atf means. man i feel dumb. n e wayz i got a stick not an automatic and i feel a rough shift from 1st 2 2nd. so what would be my problem with the tranny?

sumo_Bob

The recommended Replacement Cycle is 50k miles.

MazMan

what do you mean replacement cycle?

sumo_Bob

I.E. every 50k miles, you should replace your ATF. Assuming you keep the car for 50, 100, 150k, etc...

t24u

On an automatic, I would suggest every 30, or when it starts to get brownish in color. If it's black it's Waaaay late. Alot of it depends on driving conditions too, alot of city driving will darken it up faster.

Using an ATF flush machine is MUCH better than a drain and refill. Very IMPORTANT though, make sure you don't use the wrong kind of ATF. Fully Synthetic ATF, should be safe. I highly recommend BG.

t24u

If you are having a hard time shifting in a manual, it could be the synchros.