Mazda vehicles are known for their exceptional safety, reliability, and performance, but they’re not perfect. Some are infamous for having problems with their transmission systems.
Certain models are more widely reported to have complications with shifting gears and even transmission breakdowns. It’s important to know which vehicles to be wary of, especially if you’re in the market for a Mazda.
Which Mazda Models Suffer From Transmission Issues?
The Mazda 3, Mazda 6, Mazda CX-5, and Mazda CX-9 are the models that get the most complaints about their transmission.
Mazda 3
The most common complaints drivers have about Mazda 3’s transmission system include rough shifting and transmission failure.
Mazda 6
Many drivers experienced problems with the transmission of the Mazda 6, such as slipping gears and erratic shifting.
Mazda CX-5
Many drivers have complained about the Mazda CX-5’s shifting, remarking it can clunk into gear. Full transmission breakdowns can also happen.
Mazda CX-9
Common complaints about the Mazda CX-9’s transmission system include delayed responses, transmission fluid leaks, slipping gears, and reverse gear failure.
Common Mazda Transmission Problems
The most common transmission problems Mazda vehicles have include erratic shifting, slipping gears, reverse gear failure, overdrive gear failure, harsh gear shifting, and problems with shift flares when accelerating.
Erratic Shifting and Slipping Gears
One of the most common problems for Mazda vehicles with automatic transmissions is gear slippage. Sometimes the gears would fail to change or randomly change while driving.
This problem typically happens when there’s something wrong with the vehicle’s neutral safety switch. Some Mazda models can have loose connectors or easily damaged wiring, so it’s a good idea to check on it every now and then.
Failing Transmission Control Modules
Another problem common across many Mazda vehicles is faulty transmission control modules, also known as TCMs. This component is responsible for controlling the transmission of a vehicle by helping gifts shift smoothly and efficiently. This typically occurs because the TCM is mounted directly on the transmission in numerous Mazda vehicles, making them overheat and malfunction.
Reverse Gear Failure
Some Mazda models can have problems engaging the reverse gear. Changing the transmission fluid can typically fix this issue, but other solutions might be needed depending on the cause. For example, fractured reverse drums or worn-out pistons can prevent a vehicle from engaging the reverse gear. Bear in mind that changing the fluid won’t always fix this issue so it’s a good idea to consult a mechanic just in case.
Delayed Gear Shifting
Another widely reported problem with automatic transmission Mazdas is harsh gear shifts, specifically trouble engaging 4th and 5th gears. There might also be a delay when gears are changed, which often coincides with erratic shifting.
Broken springs or excessive wear inside the vehicle’s valve body can cause delayed gear shifting. This problem also occurs when the pressure of the transmission fluid is too low.
Overdrive Gear Failure
Some Mazda models have problems engaging the overdrive gear. This typically occurs when the overdrive servo is worn or if there’s something wrong with the vehicle speed sensor. Low transmission fluid pressure is another potential cause.
Once this issue occurs, it will become increasingly frequent until it is fixed, so don’t put off resolving it.
Shift Flares When Accelerating
Some drivers of Mazda vehicles have experienced shift flares during mild accelerations. This is often caused by degraded, contaminated transmission fluid, or damage to the valve body. This problem typically coincides with delayed gear shifting, especially downshifting.
What Repairs Are Necessary To Fix Transmission Issues?
If your Mazda’s transmission system starts acting up, the repairs your vehicle will need to undergo depend on the problems that manifest.
For example, if there’s a problem with the quality of the transmission fluid, it’s a good idea to get either a fluid check or a transmission flush. Similarly, if transmission components become inoperative, it’s best to replace them.
Transmission Fluid Change
If there are problems with your transmission system, always check your transmission fluid first. Inspect the fluid to ensure it isn’t contaminated or compromised in any way.
If the transmission fluid is too low, refill it. If it has too much moisture or gunk, change it.
Experts recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This process is often done during maintenance, but you can do it as needed if the fluid is contaminated.
Transmission Flush
A transmission flush is more thorough than a transmission fluid change. It involves flushing out the old, contaminated fluid and adding new, clean transmission fluid. Bear in mind that transmission flushes should be a last resort.
Drivers of vehicles with automatic transmission systems should always get a transmission flush whenever they service their vehicles.
Repairs and Replacements
If inoperative parts are the cause of your transmission troubles, you must repair or replace them. Unless you’re an experienced DIYer with in-depth auto repair knowledge, it’s best to hire a professional to do it for you.
Disassembling a transmission system and inspecting all its components requires a lot of mechanical expertise. The costs of repairs and replacements vary depending on which components are inoperative and need attention.
Vehicle Maintenance
Performing maintenance on your vehicle is important if you want to prolong its lifespan and keep all of its components operative.
Bringing your vehicle to a professional for maintenance and troubleshooting can help you identify causes for some of the issues you’ve been having with the transmission system. It’s strongly recommended to take your Mazda to a mechanic at least twice a year for maintenance.
Keep Reading: Related Posts
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
