Have a 2016 CX-5 with the 'so-called' lifetime transmission fluid. I don't really buy into the lifetime transmission fluid (unless you are looking for a short lifetime - ie. the warranty period). Vehicle has 130,000 km on it and I am uncertain of its transmission fluid replacement history. To that end was going to do a drain/fill. I see online many people also replacing filter when they do this. Asked the Mazda dealer about it and they claim they only ever do drain/fill without replacing filter. So what are the Mazda experts here saying (this is my first mazda). Is a straight drain/fill (without filter replacement) adequate? And, maybe do a few of them (one at each of the 2 or 3 upcoming oil changes). Comments? Thank you.

 

I recommend to do a transmission service at 30-40K intervals.
There is lots of information is you search this forum as to why.

As far as empirical data and information you can also see many members that have had their oil analyzed and confirmed why to do the service recommendation I stated.
The largest cause of transmission service issues is caused by not doing a regular fluid and filter service.

ASE

 

Got it. Ok will get the filter and do once i have that. It is somewhat odd (although maybe not) that the mazda dealer I asked said they never change the filter (just do a drain and fill). They also charge $240 for that! Any recommendation on filter brand - should i necessarily spring for the mazda branded one or is the wix or beck/arnley ok. Also, do i really need to do the liquid gasket thing or are the rubber gaskets that come with some of the filters ok to use.
Thanks.

 

Oil Analysis | Blackstone Laboratories

 

The wording is everything. The transmission is called a Lifetime no service transmission. No one that is a Factory trained, or independently trained Auto mechanic should be wording not needed never change or required etc.. We all know what happens to any automatic transmission as miles accumulates regardless of the warranty period.

This is one aspect that I can suggest that ANY filter brand name works and NONME work better then the other. As long as a Branded name.

I do not use anything except a normal gasket no silicone replacing the gasket. Mostly because the way I install them they NEVER leak. But I realize that many DIY as well professionals seem to get leaks. Basically use a cross pattern and multi steps in torquing down.

If you care to see I have pictured several on my thread, I posed for you in another thread.