The type of transmission fluid that should be used in the 2012 mazda3 is mazda fz-atf or dexron vi. the capacity for the vehicle is6.1 pints for the manual and 3.7 quarts for an initial fill or8.2 quarts for a total fill for the automatic transmission. the fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that helps with gear shifts, helps to cool the transmission and to lubricate moving parts. the transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or so. to tell when the fluid is low or going bad you will hear unusual noises coming from the transmission, a burning smell or leaks from the car. the cost to get it changed is anywhere from $ 110 to $ 140 in labor costs and extra for parts.
According to the manufacturer, you should use atf type m automatic transmission fluid in a mazda 3 2012 .
The mazda 3 2012 transmission is recommended to use dexron iii atf fluid.