2002 Mazda Miata MX-5 Owner's Manual - Page 194

J07L_8Q42-EA-01F.book Page 20 Tuesday, March 5, 2002 3:14 PM Maintenance and Care Owner Maintenance 3. Remove the filler cap and attached dipstick. 4. Wipe them clean and put them back. 5. Remove again and inspect the level. 6. It must be between H and L. Add fluid if necessary. Don't overfill. If new fluid is required frequently, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) M Inspecting Automatic Transmission Fluid Level The automatic transmission fluid level should be inspected regularly. Measure it as described below. The volume of fluid changes with the temperature. For that reason, it is best to examine the level after having driven the vehicle for 15 minutes. If necessary, however, it can also be inspected without driving when the outside temperature is above 20°C (70°F). CAUTION • Low fluid level causes transmission slippage. Overfilling can cause foaming, loss of fluid, and transmission malfunction. • Use specified fluid (page 10-4). A nonspecified fluid could result in transmission malfunction and failure. • The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom of the dipstick and the outside temperature is above 20°C (70°F), or if evident automatic transmission fluid leaks are found. 1. Park on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly. 2. Idle the engine. Push down on the brake pedal. 3. Move the shift lever through all ranges and set it at P. 8-20 Form No. 8Q42-EA-01F