Hi, I have a 2005 mazda 3 hatchback, recently i have noticed oil over the gearbox, it doesnt seem like motor oil because its not that thick(but im not sure). I took the car to the dealer last week. they checked it for 30 min and couldnt find the leak, so they told me to wash the engine and come back ..after that they kept the car running for 1 hour then took it for a drive for 30 min then checked the engine and the car's under again and there was no oil ..so they told me that there is no leak and that oil must have been spelled during an oil change. Now, the problem has came back today after going for a trip of about 100 miles.

Do you have any idea what could be the cause !?

thank you in advance

[IMG]local://upfiles/18342/639B4D8FAF1546F08A594D72C506F0B4.jpg[/IMG]

 

I noticed the same thing on my last oil change. I have an 08 and it was only my second oil change. I'm due for another one and am going to check it again. If anybody has any info, it would be nice.

 

I want to ask if this problem could be to overfilling of ATF ?! anyone knows the sypmtoms of that ?

 

The reddish color of the fluid seems to suggest it's ATF, have you checked the ATF level? (BTW ATF level should be checked when the engine is running, check the high-temp mark.)

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AmberChase

 

Im doubting that the previous owner has over filled it with ATF as this fluid accumelates in the same area in the picture only after long trips especially hilly areas. does anyone know if there is a overflow pipe for the ATF in mazda 3 2005 ?! or is there any where else for the fluid to leak from ?!
please help me guys

 

Once you have cleaned the engine bay, take note on the oil level and ATF level, after the long trip when you have the "oil" leaking out, re-check the oil and ATF levels, you should be able to tell which fluid is leaking.

Or you can just compare the samples of oil and ATF, to see which fluid is out.


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Sub_Rosa

 

Depending on where the 'leak' is, it could be a motor mount. They are hydraulic, and can rupture. I noticed a small puddle of 'oil' under my passenger side suspension. I checked the oil, not low, also monitered it for the last 90 or so miles. Mount is right above that, and is soft. Not a hard replacement.

Perry

 

Perry,
It's only #3 mount, the one on the upper RS of the car that is hydraulic. The others are "solid" rubber.
#3 is the weakest link in the engine mount department.

 

Thanks for the clarification. I assumed that they all were hydraulic. Is there a better than stock replacement for the hydraulic one? I need one fast.

Thanks,
Perry