What is a transmission fluid change or flush?
The transmission fluid change is the tried-and-true process that your owner’s manual specifies when it calls for a transmission service. Your mechanic drains the transmission fluid, replaces the filter, then refills the transmission with fresh, new fluid. The transmission fluid change lets your mechanic get a close look at the transmission pan and the filter. This can reveal the presence of metal particles or other debris, which can indicate a bigger problem that needs to be fixed before it gets worse. This makes the fluid change an ideal preventive maintenance procedure.
The transmission flush process uses a machine to replace an automatic transmission’s fluid. Many auto repair shops own these expensive machines. The old fluid, dirt and sludge is pushed out under pressure, and new fluid replaces it. Flushing usually costs significantly more than a fluid change, due to the cost of the machine. Many shops tend to price the procedure for high profits.
Which should I get, a transmission fluid change or a flush?
The flushing process does not require the pan to be removed or the filter to be changed, so the diagnostic and preventive benefits of seeing what’s in the pan and changing the filter are lost. Additionally, many vehicle manufacturers do not recommend or require include a transmission flush as part of their vehicles’ recommended maintenance schedule. So why do it? Stick with the transmission fluid change that is specified in your owner’s manual.
However, if your maintenance schedule specifically calls for a flush, or your transmission fluid has been ignored for too long and picked up metal particles or other contaminants, a flush is the way to go.
What are the symptoms related to transmission fluid issues?
If your transmission fluid or filter gets clogged, you may notice the engine revving when you're not accelerating the vehicle — this is called transmission slipping. If you notice this, take your car in for maintenance immediately, as the damage will only get worse.
Changing the transmission fluid (and filter, if equipped) typically is a maintenance item, and should be done on a regular schedule. On some vehicles, flushing the transmission is part of the maintenance schedule; otherwise, a flush is only needed if debris is detected in the fluid.
Can I drive with a transmission fluid problem?
Driving a vehicle that has passed the manufacturer specified service interval is not recommended, in general. The vehicle can be safely driven, but skipping maintenance may cost you far more in the long run. If you're past the scheduled maintenance mileage, you should take your car in for service as soon as you can.
If the vehicle has any transmission issues that give you drivability concerns, or any of the symptoms noted here, the vehicle should be towed to a repair facility for diagnostics.
How often do transmission fluids need to be replaced?
Changing the transmission fluid is typically a scheduled maintenance item. Still, transmission issues can happen any time. It is more common to see high-mileage vehicles in poor condition because of neglected maintenance. Performing factory maintenance on schedule is the best way to help prevent transmission failure.
Manufacturers set different service intervals, so be sure to check your maintenance schedule here or in your owner's manual.
The Mazda 3 was equipped with the 4F27E or FN4A-EL transmission. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Mazda 3 transmission problems, look at cost estimates and figure out what you can do about them.
Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model. What Transmission Do I Have?
Mazda 3: 4F27E Transmission
Mazda 3: FN4A-EL Transmission
Mazda 3 Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate
Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.
Replacement Mazda 3 Transmission Prices:
| 4F27E | 1856 |
What are the DTC codes related to Mazda 3 transmission problems?
P0766 – Failed Shift Solenoid D – This DTC can be stored when there is a problem with a shift solenoid or the valve body.
P2703 – Failed Friction Element D – This trouble code can be triggered by a failed friction element like a clutch disc.
P0720 – Failed Input Speed Sensor or Output Speed Sensor – This trouble code is caused by a bad
speed sensor on the transmission.
P0730 – Incorrect Gear Ratio – This issue could be caused by a number of problems, including a fault in the transmission control module, dirty transmission fluid, or a bad transmission solenoid.
P0657 – Voltage Problem in the ‘A’ Circuit – This transmission problem is often caused by a short, or bad ground on the PCM or PCM wiring harness.
P0700 – Malfunction in the transmission control system – This
DTC is often triggered when there is a problem with the TCM, a wiring harness, a solenoid, or the valve body.
P0715 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Malfunction – This code typically gets stored when the input sensor cannot read the engine RPM, which can prevent the transmission from appropriately shifting gears.
P0717 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor No Signal – This trouble code is generated when the PCM does not get a signal from the input speed sensor, which
will prevent the computer from being able to determine when the transmission needs to shift.
P0791 – Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor ‘A’ Circuit – This error can occur when there is a problem with the intermediate shaft speed sensor, most likely due to a bad sensor, wiring problem, or a failed shift solenoid.
P0793 – Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal – The computer will generate this DTC when it cannot communicate with the intermediate
shaft speed sensor.
Mazda 3 Recalls
2010 Mazda3 – 09V126000 / 5409d
Summary
Mazda recalled 25,400 copies of the 2010 Mazda3, equipped with the automatic transmission. It seems that the clearance between the engine harness and the housing of starter motor may be insufficient. Because of this, the covering of the harness may be damaged through vibration during vehicle operation, possibly causing a short-circuit between certain harness wires and the starter housing. A short-circuit can result in engine control malfunction and/or poor transmission shift quality.
Consequence
The main fuse may blow out causing the engine to stall and inability of restart, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
This recall began on May 6, 2009, and dealers were instructed to inspect the engine harness and add a protector clip on the affected section of the harness. If necessary, the harness will be repaired as well. Owners can contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500, referring to Mazda recall number: 5409d. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236
Mazda 3 Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
2004-2008 Mazda3 – TSB 05-12/08
Problem:
On some vehicles, the shift position lamp in the instrument cluster does not come on in the “P” position, and the engine does not start. However, the engine can be started in the “N” position. This is due to rust on the connect- ing point of the shift cable and lock cable lever causing the select lever not to move to the location where it is recognized as “P” range. There is no issue about the transmission reaching Park. This is only an issue about the confirming “P” indicator in the instrument cluster. A slit on the mud guard has been removed to prevent salt water from getting to the location where rust would occur.
Solution:
If rust is present on the connecting point of the shift cable and lock cable lever, then the lock cable lever will have to be replaced with modified one (part # B2YE-46-310). Also, it’s strongly recommended to replace the nut and washer as well.
2004-2005 Mazda3 – TSB 05-010/05
Problem:
Some automatic equipped versions of the Mazda may exhibit intermittent shift shock during 1-2 upshift. This issue is caused by improper PCM calibration.
Solution:
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will have to be reprogrammed with the updated calibrations.
Common Problems with the Mazda 3 Transmission
Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light
Can I drive with a transmission problem?
If your Mazda 3 can still make it up and down the road, you might say “It’s fine, I’ll just drive it until I can get it fixed”. But that is not always a good idea, depending on the symptoms. You see, there are a lot of (very expensive) moving parts inside of a transmission, and if something isn’t right, continuing to drive with a transmission problem could damage something else.
How often does a Mazda 3 transmission need to be replaced?
The overall lifespan of a Mazda 3 transmission largely depends on how well it was maintained. Factory design flaws also factor into this equation, along with how/how hard you drive. But on average, we’ve seen the Mazda 3 transmission last for between 130,000-180,000 miles. A high quality replacement transmission however, can last considerably longer if all of the factory design flaws have been addressed and the vehicle has been maintained.
How are Mazda 3 transmission issues diagnosed?
It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Mazda 3 transmission problems might be, but you won’t truly know unless you have the right tools and experience. A good mechanic or transmission repair center will be able to connect your truck to a computer and find out which diagnostic trouble codes (DTC’s) have been stored. Once they know what to look for, they can perform a visual inspection to verify the problem.
How is a Mazda 3 transmission replaced?
In order to replace your Mazda 3 transmission, the truck has to be lifted from the ground in order to gain access to all of the parts that will need to be unbolted. Then the transmission can be lowered to the ground (typically with a transmission jack), so the new transmission can be installed. Once it is in place, for the 6L80, the vehicle PCM will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission using the latest GM subscription.
Recommendations for Mazda 3 transmission issues?
To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Mazda 3 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.
How to Solve Mazda 3 Transmission Problems
Solution A: Buy a Used Mazda 3 Transmission
The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used transmission or used transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.
Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Mazda 3 Transmission
Another option would be a rebuilt transmission or rebuilt transmission. A local repair shop will remove your transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.
Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Mazda 3 Transmission
Many owners depend on their vehicle to commute and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured transmission.
Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Problem Does Your Mazda 3 Have?
Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!