Hey! I have an 88k mile 2010 Mazda 3 with the 2.5L I4 and 5 speed auto. I tried replacing the ATF filter but when I removed all the fluid pan bolts the pan seemed to be glued shut and I couldn’t remove it. I didn’t force it off worrying that I would be damaging the aluminum transmission case. Luckily there was a drain bolt so I drained 4 quarts of fluid out and replaced fresh new Mazda M5 specific fluid. I’m planning on doing this every 30k miles. Will my transmission last with just fluid changes or should I take it to a mechanic and have them try to remove the fluid pan and replace the filter?
The way you ended up changing the fluid is EXACLTY how you should do it. I have always only done a drain/refill every 40-45k miles and have never had a trani issue. Always used factory OEM fluid. Even got 220k miles out of a VW passat auto trani before I sold it still woking fine. Those were notorious for trani failure because fluid is stated as "life time"!!! That is a joke. ALL oils deteriorate.
the pan is probably stuck on with silicone sealant. GENTLY pry the lip with a non-marring tool. Maybe try driving in a wooden wedge.
