Lawrie Marsh
Hobart, Tas.
Q
The handbook for our 2005 Mazda2 automatic specifies checking the automatic transmission fluid level every 20,000 k, but there is no recommended interval for changing the fluid for vehicles in Australia or New Zealand, even though in other countries it is to be changed every 50,000 km. My local dealership said they believed the transmission was "filled for life" - but, when pressed their chief mechanic suggested changing the fluid at 100,000 km. Why would Australian/NZ cars differ in this respect from those in other markets, and what would you recommend we do please?
Graham Smith
Ask Smithy
A
Carmakers assess local conditions when setting service routines, and Mazda has decided not to recommend an interval for changing the fluid in their cars sold here. Auto transmission specialists generally recommend changing oil every 50,000 km and having a full service done every 100,000 km or so. I would have the fluid changed in your car.
