11 Apr.
Gearboxes

Mazda CX5: transmission maintenance and repair guide

The CX5 is the Japanese automaker's most successful model, and a pioneer in its field. In fact, it is the brand's first vehicle to fully integrate SkyActiv technologies, which reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

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The gearbox, an essential part of the Mazda CX5's transmission system, can suffer premature wear. What to do in the event of gearbox failure, and how to prevent it? EDEN BOITES explains it all!

Features of the Mazda CX5

Engine and gearbox type

The Mazda CX-5 has seen just two generations since it first went on sale in 2012. Production of the second generation began in 2017 and has since spanned three phases. Mazda has since announced the arrival of a third generation of its flagship vehicle, without however specifying a date.

In terms of powertrains, the CX5 is systematically offered in a gasoline version, such as the 2.5L SKYACTIV-G 194 hp with direct injection, or in a diesel version, with the 2.2L SKYACTIV-D 184 hp, for example.

These engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, but an automatic option is also available on both generations of the Mazda CX5.

The transfer case: a special case of the transmission system

On the Mazda CX5, there are two ways of transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. With front-wheel drive, the front two wheels of the vehicle are driven. In the case of all-wheel drive, all four wheels are involved: the abbreviation 4×4 is used.

In addition to the gearbox, a vehicle with four-wheel drive requires a transfer case. The role of this lesser-known component is to distribute engine power evenly between the front and rear axles by means of the two drive shafts.

The fluid in your Mazda CX5 transfer case needs to be changed every 80,000 km or so to keep it in good working order.

Mazda CX5 transmission maintenance

Daily care of the gearbox

If your vehicle is equipped with a manual gearbox, there are a number of simple things you can do to protect it while driving:

  • Avoid leaving your hand on the gearshift. The clutch fork could come into contact with the gears, ultimately damaging the entire transmission system;
  • Use the neutral position when stopping at traffic lights or in traffic jams. Keeping your foot on the pedal not only strains your leg, but also wears out the clutch release bearing prematurely;
  • Drive smoothly and dynamically. Anticipating bends and decelerations helps you avoid overloading the clutch system. It's also a good idea to pay attention to the engine's revolutions per minute, so you can change gears accordingly;
  • Avoid skipping one or more gears when downshifting.

With an automatic gearbox, maintenance is considerably simplified. The golden rule is never to shift into reverse (R) or park (P) when the vehicle is not at a complete standstill.

Identify signs of malfunction

Several symptoms may alert you to a fault in your Mazda CX5 gearbox. The first is usually the appearance of unusual noises. Cracking noises during gear changes suggest worn synchronizer rings. Coupled with resistance when manipulating the gearshift, these noises often reveal advanced wear of the linkages or a clutch disc.

Excessive vibrations in the passenger compartment can also indicate gearbox wear.

A burning smell is linked to overheating of the transmission system. This occurs when the gearbox oil level is insufficient, or its general quality has deteriorated. In this case, an oil change is required.

Gearbox repair

Gearbox oil change

Not to be confused with engine oil, which has different properties, gearbox oil (also known as transmission oil) ensures the proper lubrication of the entire transmission system. Insufficient quantities can lead to a number of problems, and rapidly damage your Mazda CX5.

To change the gearbox oil :

  • Drive for fifteen minutes to warm up the oil;
  • Elevate your vehicle;
  • Remove the protective cover and place a drip tray under the oil sump to catch the used oil;
  • Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to drain into the drain pan;
  • Use a funnel to pour in the new oil, respecting the level on the dipstick;
  • Refit all the parts and drive for a few kilometers;
  • Check the entire system for fluidity and leaks under the vehicle.

Gearbox oil changes are recommended every 250,000 km for manual gearboxes, and every 60,000 km for automatic gearboxes.

The solution EDEN BOITES

Changing the transmission oil is sometimes all that's needed to solve a gearbox problem. If this is not enough, only a professional mechanic will be able to determine whether the gearbox needs to be completely replaced.

Changing a gearbox can be a costly affair, as it is a complex component. That's why EDEN BOITES offers you a comprehensive catalog of thousands of standard exchange gearboxes and transfer cases.

Find the model you need using the engine code (or gearbox code) on the oil pan, and we'll take care of the rest!

The best prices are available at EDEN BOITES , thanks to our products being meticulously disassembled and cleaned piece by piece. And for maximum peace of mind, each of our boxes comes with a one-year warranty.

Payment, product selection, delivery costs: if you have any questions, contact one of our advisors today and let us guide you!

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