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Mazda 5 Transmissions: Overview, Problems, Fluids

By: Author Stefan K.

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Minivans

Mazda 5 Transmissions: Overview, Problems, Fluids

The Mazda 5 is a compact but roomy and feature-rich minivan. Interestingly, its first generation was sold as Mazda Premacy. It was sold as Mazda 5 from the second generation onward, especially outside Japan. Its fan base witnessed massive changes in terms of design in its 2008 Mazda 5. Some visible changes include a new center console design, new styling on the rear and front, and a new gauge cluster. The thing is that the Mazda 5 has continued to surprise car enthusiasts throughout its journey so far. Today, however, we will discuss our research concerning its transmissions used in its various generations. So, what is the wait? Let’s jump straight into it.

The first generation has 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions. It came with 4- or 5-speed automatic and 5- or 6-speed manual transmissions in its second generation. On the other hand, the third generation of Mazda 5 has 4-, 5- or 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions.

Let us admit here that the above description is not a complete picture of transmissions used in Mazda 5. It only reflects a bird’s-eye view. We will discuss transmissions with more details that went inside the Mazda 5 going forward. We will see different models of transmissions that go inside it throughout its three generations. In addition, we will find out the cost of replacing them and how long they last. Likewise, we will uncover the problems that often appear during the lifetime of those transmissions. So, let’s get the ball rolling.

What's Inside show

What Transmissions Has The Mazda 5 Used?

The Mazda 5 has used several transmissions that went inside them throughout its three generations. Let us see them down below.

First Generation (1999 – 2004)

  • 4-speed FN4A-EL automatic
  • 5-speed manual

Second Generation (2004 – 2010)

  • 5-speed manual
  • 6-speed manual
  • 4-speed FN4A-EL automatic
  • 5-speed automatic

Third Generation (2010 – Present)

  • 6-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic (AWD)
  • 5-speed FS5A-EL automatic
  • 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic

How Long Does A Mazda 5 Transmission Last?

How well a transmission of Mazda 5 is maintained ultimately decides its longevity. Besides, how you drive it and factory design defects also play a role in it. However, on average, it lasts somewhere between 130,000 and 180,000 miles. A high-quality transmission can last longer, provided that the factory design flaws are addressed. A driver also maintains it well.

Also read: The Complete Cost Of Maintaining A Mazda

How Much Does A Mazda 5 Transmission Cost?

Are you pondering over the cost of replacing the transmission of the Mazda 5? For you, we have highlighted the prices down below. It will help you have a general idea about the transmission cost.

  • 4-speed FN4A-EL automatic: $1,795.00 (SPPrecision)
  • 5-speed FS5A-EL automatic: $2,318.00 (GoPowerTrain)

Common Mazda 5 Transmission Problems

Like anything else, the transmissions of Mazda 5 also pop up issues during their lifetime. Below, we discuss a few common problems that drivers face while driving.

FN4A-EL

  • The problem with the FN4A-EL transmission is a quick-burning of friction components of reverse packages and overdrive.
  • Quickly burning of these elements is a consequence of the design peculiarities of these kinds of gearboxes.
  • It is usually the oil leaking from the Teflon ring and the deterioration of drum seating position on the cover support that burns these friction elements.

FS5A-EL

  • When a car switches gears, drivers may begin to feel shaking, slipping sensations, and grinding. It is usually an indication of the transmission problem.
  • Some drivers with the FS5A-EL transmission have experienced odd sounds like humming and clunking.
  • The transmission of a car may not fully engage when a driver puts it in drive or reverse.

Also read: How Much Can A Mazda 5 Tow?

How To Solve Mazda 5 Transmission Problems

  • Buy a Used Mazda 5 Transmission

The simplest way is to buy a used transmission to overcome the problem. Though there is no way to figure out the condition of the internal elements, you can buy them at a low cost from online stores. As a result, you will save yourself from spending too much money.

  • Buy a Rebuilt Mazda 5 Transmission

A rebuilt transmission is another option other than buying a used one. A local repair shop may install a few new parts in your transmission. Notwithstanding, it is essential to note that not every rebuilder is experienced and skilled enough to do the task. In case a rebuilder maladjusted some parts, problems could show up again.

  • Buy a Remanufactured Mazda 5 Transmission

The third option is to invest in a remanufactured transmission. It is a better option than a rebuilt transmission since it saves you and your transmission specialist time. In a rebuild, a rebuilder would remove, disassemble, reassemble, and install back in your vehicle. The whole process can take 3-5 days. On the contrary, there is no need to spend time rebuilding. A remanufactured transmission is already complete and gets shipped directly from the remanufacturer.

Differences Between Transmissions

The FN4A-EL is a 4-speed automatic transmission. On the other hand, the FS5A-EL is a 5-speed automatic transmission. It means both have a multi-speed transmission. Both of these do not need the driver input to change forward gears under usual driving conditions.

The FN4A-EL is an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transaxle transmission. For the record, Mazda and Ford have developed it. The name for Ford for this transmission is 4F27E. The FS5A-EL is the 5-speed successor to the given transmission that shares many of the same parts.

There is also a notable yet subtle difference in the height of the reverse piston of FS5A-EL compared to the FN4A-EL. The reverse piston of the FN4A-EL transmission is 34.925mm. However, the FS5A-EL has a reverse piston that is 36.957mm in height.

For FN4A-EL, reverse clutch steel plates come in 1.60mm and 2.08mm thicknesses for FS5A-EL.

When it comes to the top pressure plate, both the FN4A-EL and the FS5A-EL use 5.74 mm thick.

Both transmissions also use a similar size of the reverse frictions that is 1.63 mm thick.

Moreover, the Belleville Spring of both the transmissions is also 1.40 mm thick and has 12 fingers.

Interestingly, only the FS5A-EL uses a 2.08 mm thick dish plate. It goes at the bottom of the reverse clutch pack.

Transmission Fluids And The Mazda 5

It is undoubtedly crucial to take proper care of your car when you want it to function smoothly and last long. When it comes to transmission fluid, car manufacturers often recommend changing it every 45,000 miles. That said, different transmissions need different types of transmission fluid. Down below, we give you an overview of transmission fluid that goes well with the transmissions of Mazda 5.

References

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