2007 Mazda 3 Oil Change Guide

2007 MAZDA 3
22,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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RICKF1950
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  • 2 POSTS
.This is the first car I've not been able to.
I've pulled off most of the plastic belly cover.
I see the filter housin lid (what removes it?)
I think I see the drain plug but I'm not sure its the one (got a pic?)
I want to replace with Castrol synthetic what weight?
20/50?

Please help! I find it easier to work on my BMW 528i, and my shade tree certification is at risk :)
Jun 30, 2008 at 10:01 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
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Ideally 5W20 is recomended, but 5W30 will suffice.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_oil_2.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_oil1_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_oil2_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_oil3_1.jpg

Looks like you pull a drain plug for the filter, then unscrew the housing to change the filter. The oil pan drain plug looks to be on the side of the pan.
Jun 30, 2008 at 10:11 PM
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RICKF1950
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I'm still not sure where the oil drain plug is. Is it a 17mm with something like a screll in the head?
Jul 1, 2008 at 2:22 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
I would think 15 to 17 mm. Not having the car in front of me and limited info makes it tough. My logic says it should be on the lowest point of the oil pan and I would expect that the gasket should be visable.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_oil2_2.jpg

This would be where I would expect it. IF still in doubt, take a couple of clear pics and post them. I have another program at work that may help to define it, but it is probably the same as what I already posted.
Jul 1, 2008 at 10:06 PM

Suggested Repair

Use 5W-20 synthetic oil; 5W-30 is acceptable if 5W-20 is unavailable. Drain the engine oil from the plug on the side or lowest point of the oil pan, likely a 15-17 mm hex with a visible gasket. For the cartridge filter, remove the small drain plug on the filter housing, then unscrew the housing lid and replace the filter.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2007 Mazda 3 asked how to change the oil and filter after removing most of the plastic undercover, and whether 20W-50 Castrol synthetic was appropriate. The expert recommended 5W-20, with 5W-30 acceptable, and explained that the filter housing has its own drain plug before the housing is unscrewed. The oil-pan drain plug was described as being on the side of the pan, expected at the lowest point with a visible gasket and likely a 15-17 mm head. The owner remained unsure of the exact plug, and the expert suggested posting clear photos if it still could not be identified.

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