Gearbox Mazda AW6A-EL

The Mazda AW6A-EL 6-speed automatic transmission and its all-wheel drive version AW6AX-EL were produced from 2005 to 2016 and installed on the Model 6, CX-7, CX-9 and MPV minivan. By design, these gearboxes are only variations of the popular Aisin TF-81SC automatic gearbox.

Mazda gearboxes: F3A, G4A‑EL, GF4A‑EL, F4A‑EL, AW6A‑EL, FW6A‑EL / GW6A‑EL, SJ6A‑EL.

Specifications

Production years 2005 – 2016
Type automatic transmission
Number of gears 6
Type of drive front / all wheel
Engine volume, l up to 3.7
Torque output, Nm up to 450
Recommended oil Toyota ATF WS
Oil capacity, liter 7.0
Replacing the oil every 60,000 km
Replacing the filter every 60,000 km
Gearbox lifespan, km ~300 000
Weight, kg 91

Gear ratios Mazda AW6A-EL

Using the example of a Mazda CX-7 2010 with a 2.3 liter turbo engine:

Main 3.749
1st 4.148
2nd 2.369
3rd 1.556
4th 1.155
5th 0.859
6th 0.686
Reverse 3.394

The transmission was installed on:

  • Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2005 – 2008; 6 II (GH) in 2007 – 2012;
  • Mazda CX-7 I (ER) in 2006 – 2012;
  • Mazda CX-9 I (TB) in 2006 – 2015;
  • Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 – 2016.

Disadvantages of the Mazda AW6A-EL gearbox

  • This gearbox is installed with powerful units and the torque converter clutch wears out quickly.
  • Renew the oil more often, as this dirt clogs the solenoids in the valve body.
  • A worn clutch causes vibrations, which breaks the oil pump bushing.
  • The remaining problems here are related to overheating due to a clogged heat exchanger.
  • High temperature reduces the life of Teflon rings and the lubricant pressure drops.
  • Then the clutches start to burn, starting with clutch pack C2 (4-5-6 gears).
  • The differential is considered another weak point; the splines in it are often cut off.
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