🧪Fluid Capacities
Mazda MX-5 Fluid Capacities
All fluid capacities for your Mazda MX-5: engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering, and more.
Quick Answer
The Mazda MX-5 requires multiple fluids maintained at specific levels. Engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all have different capacities depending on your engine and model year.
2019-2024
2019-2024Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidElectric power steering — no fluid needed
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Many newer models use electric power steering — no power steering fluid required
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2013-2018
2013-2018Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidElectric power steering — no fluid needed
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Many newer models use electric power steering — no power steering fluid required
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2007-2012
2007-2012Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2001-2006
2001-2006Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
1995-2000
1995-2000Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
1990-1994
1990-1994Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much coolant does a Mazda MX-5 hold?
- The Mazda MX-5 cooling system holds 6-10 quarts total depending on the engine. A drain-and-fill replaces about 50-60% of the coolant. For a complete flush, you'll need the full capacity amount.
- What type of transmission fluid does a Mazda MX-5 use?
- The Mazda MX-5 transmission fluid type depends on whether it's an automatic or manual transmission and the model year. Automatic transmissions typically use ATF WS, Dexron VI, or manufacturer-specific fluid. Manual transmissions use 75W-90 gear oil.
- Does a Mazda MX-5 have power steering fluid?
- 2015+ Mazda MX-5 models with electric power steering don't use power steering fluid. Older models with hydraulic power steering use ATF or manufacturer-specific fluid — check your owner's manual.
- What brake fluid does a Mazda MX-5 use?
- Most Mazda MX-5 models use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point and is preferred for performance driving. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) in a system designed for DOT 3/4.