Hello everyone, I'm new here but I currently own a 2008 Mazda3 2.3L.

Because I have bad experience with mechanics and the dealer ship - I decided to change all my fluids from now on. Yesterday I went to change the oil and I noticed a nasty black spot under the engine/transmission. Then I looked closer and it appears that something is broken or missing..... can you take a look at the pics below and let me know what this means....

The car only has 26k on it and so far the car runs fine.... but I'm sure that hole is not supposed to be there.


Thanks everyone.

 

If I recall correctly, the "hole" in the transmission allows access for a tool that locks the flywheel from moving while working on the transmission or engine.

The dark residue spot looks like a seal that could be leaking ever so slightly. However, to ensure it is not from the environment your car was in, clean the area and place cardboard or paper under the car while it sits for a prolonged period of time. Then, check it frequently (once a day). If you cannot see a leak or residue building up, than check it once a week. If a few months go by and nothing reappears, than the residue was from the environment.

You are still in the factory warranty. If the residue presents itself after you clean it, take it to a Mazda dealer and let them know you have a seal leakage. Then, explain what you have done to come to that conclusion.

 

Wolfgang, Thanks for replying.

I ended up bring the car in to have it checked. The tech feels or tried to convince me that there was a leak from the engine filter area and some how the oil ended up where the spot is.... bunch of krap! if that was the case the entire bottom of the engine and trans.... would be oily and dirty.

I'm going to check every weekend and make sure I don't see any more oil stains under the engine.


Again I thank you for your time.

Have a good one.

 

Remember to keep all receipts when doing your own oil changes and fluid changes.... if you do not that will void your warranty.

As for the hole, that is a inspection hole... Supposed to be there.

As for the leak, looks like a rear main seal or oil pan (meets inside the bell housing right below the rear main, common leaking place) Recommend taking it to your dealer... not a easy job to do on jack stands, and can void your warranty.

As for what the technicians said, it likely did NOT cause this. The entire area would be oil soaked while wind blows through.