Mazda transmissions are a popular choice for drivers looking for reliable and affordable transmissions. But who makes Mazda transmissions? Are they manufactured in-house, or are they sourced from another company? In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Mazda transmissions and find out who manufactures them.
Who Makes Mazda Transmissions?
Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that mass production of transmissions has begun at its newly established transmission plant, Mazda Powertrain Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (MPMT), located in the Chonburi prefecture of Thailand. The decision to establish MPMT was based on the need to increase production capacity in response to the growing global demand for Mazda vehicles.
MPMT will enable Mazda to better serve customers in Southeast Asia, where the company plans to expand its sales operations. In addition, by producing transmissions locally, Mazda will be able to reduce costs and improve competitiveness.

What Does a New Mazda Transmission Feel Like?
In the test vehicle, there are shifts with the new transmission, even moderate throttle, felt nearly instantaneous—quite like a racing bicycle with a high-end derailleur (and a good sign, given the brand’s ‘zoom-zoom’ intent)—with none of the lumpiness or noticeable pause in momentum felt in Mazda’s existing five-speed automatic. There were no hunting or transmission-temp warning lights on during an extended highway drive, and the six-speed never seemed overworked.
As with any car in this class, though, there will be some occasions where you wish for more power and more gears—on long uphill grades, mostly—but the six-speed auto equation results in better mileage numbers than would a traditional five-speed manual. And that was one of Mazda’s primary goals with this new engine and transmission: to improve fuel economy without making any wholesale changes to the driving experience.
What Type of Transmission Does Mazda Use?
Mazda’s SKYACTIV-Drive is a six-speed automatic transmission that combines the best aspects of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), dual-clutch automated manual transmission, and traditional automatic transmission. The goal of the SKYACTIV-Drive is to provide an engaging and efficient driving experience. To that end, the transmission features a wide gear ratio spread and close gear spacing. This allows for quick and responsive acceleration, as well as improved fuel economy.
In addition, the SKYACTIV-Drive is designed to be lightweight and compact, further improving fuel economy. And because it uses a six-speed gearbox, the SKYACTIV-Drive is able to take advantage of the engine’s low-end torque, providing good real-world performance. All in all, Mazda’s SKYACTIV-Drive is a Transmission that offers drivers an engaging and efficient driving experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Rebuild a Mazda Transmission?
The average cost of a transmission rebuild is between $1,800 and $3,400. However, the cost can vary significantly depending on the model you own. For example, a rebuild on a Mazda3 will typically cost less than a rebuild on a Mazda6. The reason for this difference is that the Mazda 3 is a smaller car and thus has a smaller transmission. In contrast, the Mazda 6 is a larger car and has a larger, more complex transmission.

As such, the rebuild costs for these two models will vary accordingly. In addition to the model of your Mazda, the cost of your transmission rebuild will also be affected by your location. For example, if you live in an area with high labor rates, you will likely pay more for your rebuild than someone who lives in an area with lower labor rates. Similarly, if you need to have special parts ordered for your rebuild, you will also incur additional costs.
Overall, the price of your transmission rebuild will be determined by a number of factors, including the type of Mazda you own, your location, and the complexity of your transmission.
How Many Transmissions Can a Car Have?
A car’s transmission is one of the most important components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. There are three types of transmissions in use—manual, automatic, and CVT transmissions—each geared toward specific needs and driving styles. Manual transmissions are the most common type, offering drivers more control over the car’s gears and speed.
Automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in newer cars, as they offer a smoother ride and can be less strenuous on the engine. CVT transmissions are designed for efficiency, offering seamless shifting between gears to help improve fuel economy [1].
How Long Do Transmissions Last?
Transmissions are one of the most important parts of your car, and they can also be one of the most expensive to replace. A transmission typically lasts for around 150,000 miles, but with proper care and maintenance, it can last for up to 300,000 miles. The average American drives 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year, so a new transmission could theoretically last you for 20 to 30 years.

Of course, there are a number of factors that can affect the lifespan of your transmission, including the type of car you drive, the way you drive, and the conditions in which you drive. For example, if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in stop-and-go traffic, your transmission will likely need to be replaced sooner than someone who mainly drives on the freeway.
Can a Transmission Go Out Without Warning?
Most people believe that transmission can go out without any warning, but this is not always the case. There are several warning signs that your transmission is about to fail. If your vehicle shifts gears without warning at any speed or refuses to go into any gear, the transmission is either about to fail or has already failed. If the gear shift in your car is difficult to get into gears, causes grinding noises, or just won’t move at all, the transmission is dying or has died.
Another common symptom of a failing transmission is leaking fluid. If you notice a red or brown fluid under your car, it is likely transmission fluid. This is a sure sign that your transmission is in need of repair or replacement. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage. With proper care and maintenance, your transmission should last for many years.
However, if you ignore the warning signs, you could be facing an expensive repair bill or even having to replace the entire transmission.
Conclusion
Mazda transmissions are manufactured in-house at the Mazda Powertrain Manufacturing facility in Thailand. The new SKYACTIV-Drive transmission is a six-speed automatic that offers drivers the best aspects of CVT, dual-clutch automated manual transmission, and traditional automatic transmission.
With proper care and maintenance, a new transmission can last for up to 300,000 miles. If your vehicle’s transmission is shifting gears without warning or is difficult to get into gears, it may be failing and will need to be repaired or replaced.