Activematic is a series of automatic transmissions with a manual control option installed on Mazda models. Thanks to the combination of automatic and manual modes and to different software settings, these transmissions have balanced operating characteristics, ensure excellent acceleration dynamics, fast gear shifting, driving comfort, and fuel economy.
How it works
Activematic is built on the base of a classic hydraulic automatic transmission. Specialised firmware allows for the AAS (Active Adaptive Shift) function. It ensures adaptive shifting in accordance with the road conditions. To switch to the manual mode, the driver slides the gear lever into a special slot marked “M”. Moving the lever to “+” or “-” shifts gears up or down respectively. Paddle shifters can also be used.
Most versions also offer the DAM (Direct Activematic) function. It allows the driver to shift gears up or down for a short period of time without switching to the manual mode, which is convenient for manoeuvring, driving downhill, and some other situations.
Popular Activematic transmissions
| Gearbox code | Manufacturer | Number of speeds | Max engine capacity, L | Max torque, N⋅m | Car layout | Production start | Model applications |
| FN4A-EL | Ford | 4 | 2.3 | 200 | FWD | 1999 | Mazda 5; Mazda 3; Mazda 2; Mazda 6 |
| FS5A‑EL | Ford | 5 | 2.5 | 250 | FWD | 2005 | Mazda CX-7; Mazda 3; Mazda 6; Mazda 5 |
| SJ6A-EL | Aisin | 6 | 5.0 | 480 | RWD, AWD | 2006 | Mazda MX-5; Mazda RX-8 |
| AW6A-EL | Aisin | 6 | 4.0 | 450 | FWD, AWD | 2004 | Mazda CX-7; Mazda CX-9 |
| GF4A-EL | Mazda | 4 | 3.0 | 260 | FWD | 1999 | Mazda Familia; Mazda Capella |
Common malfunctions of Activematic transmissions
| Malfunctions | Transmissions |
| The bushes of the transmission wear out with time, which causes it to vibrate when operating. | GF4A-EL |
| Solenoid valves wear out prematurely, which often results in jerks and vibrations during use. | GF4A-EL; FS5A‑EL |
| The transmission can overheat if the radiator is not cleaned in time, which results in electronic malfunction. | GF4A-EL |
| Wear of the rear cover causes low oil pressure. This results in slipping and burning-out of the friction plates. | FN4A-EL |
| The seals, rubber moulded pistons, and brake bands have a short lifespan. | FN4A-EL; FS5A‑EL |
| The bearings break down quickly and the transmission shaft becomes misaligned. | FS5A‑EL |
| The reverse drum wears out prematurely, making engaging the gear impossible. | FS5A‑EL |
| The hydraulic valve body solenoids are sensitive to soiling. Inobservance of transmission fluid and filter replacement intervals can be harmful for them. | AW6A-EL; SJ6A-EL |
Comment