Transaxle - Troubleshooting: Maintenance Mazda Tribute I

Check Fluid Level and Condition

Note. Automatic transaxle fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid level check, drive the vehicle until warmed, approximately 30 km (20 miles). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather, or while pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.

Under normal circumstances, there is no need to check the fluid level of the transaxle, since the vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. However, if the transaxle is not working correctly, for instance, the transaxle may slip or shift slowly, or there may be some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked.

Fluid Level Check

1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until the vehicle reaches normal operating temperatures.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With your foot on the brake, start the engine and move the range selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Place the range selector in P (park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a clean cloth.
6. Install the fluid level indicator, making sure that it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the fluid level indicator. The fluid should be in the designated areas for normal and room temperature.

Scheme 132

Low Fluid Level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the fluid level indicator and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F).

High Fluid Level

Fluid levels above the safe range can result in transaxle failure. An overfill condition of transaxle fluid can cause shift or engagement concerns, or possible damage.

High fluid levels can cause an overheating condition.

Adding Fluid

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the fluid level indicator or fluid level indicator handle.

If necessary, add fluid in 250 ml (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill condition occurs, excess fluid should be removed by a qualified technician.

Fluid Condition Check

Note. Evidence of fluid contamination, breakdown, or incorrect fluid can cause poor shift quality. If the transaxle fluid condition is suspect, drain the transaxle and replace the fluid with MERCON(R); Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) or equivalent meeting MERCON(R) specification.

1. Make the normal fluid level check as described in «FLUID LEVEL CHECK»(ref-174431-S30884087702005040400000) .
2. Observe the color and odor of the fluid. It should be red, not brown or black. Odor can indicate an overheating condition or clutch disc or band failure.
3. Use a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the fluid level indicator. Examine the stain for evidence of solid particles and signs of antifreeze (gum or varnish on the fluid level indicator).

If particles are present in the fluid or there is evidence of contamination, the transaxle drain plug should be removed and a sample of the fluid filtered through a paper filter and examined. If transaxle failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive particles in the fluid, the transaxle must be completely cleaned and repaired. This includes cleaning and flushing the torque converter and transaxle cooling system. During disassembly and assembly all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After repairing the transaxle, all diagnostic tests and adjustments listed in the diagnosis section must be completed to make sure that the problem has been eliminated.

TRANSAXLE FLUID COOLER

When internal wear or damage has occurred in the transaxle, metal particles, clutch plate material or band material can be carried into the torque converter and transaxle fluid cooler. These contaminants are a major cause of recurring transaxle concerns and must be removed from the system before the transaxle is returned for repair.