In changing the oil in my new ('04) Mazda61 for the first time, I've run up against a problem with the filter drain plug. Tne instructions given on the Mazda6tech site for changing the oil on this (2.3) engine call for a 1/4 inch allen wrench under "tools required" but specifiy a 6.5mm wrench futher down. But, my this car, at least, neither is correct. A 1/4 inch allen is too big and a 7/32 is too small. Now, 1/4 in 6.35mm, which means that a 6.5mm hex wrench would be too big as well. So, what is the correct size? A 6mm hex is 6.35 inches, which would seem to be about right, but I'm reluctant to go buy one until I know for sure.
I called the local Mazda dealer service department and asked what's the right size. They said they never bother with the drain plug but simply remove the filter housing and cartridge.
It's possible that this odd size may be the result of some changes in manufacture. The oil drain plug on this 2004 is not 15mm, as indicated on the 6tech site, but 13mm.
I called the local Mazda dealer service department and asked what's the right size. They said they never bother with the drain plug but simply remove the filter housing and cartridge.
It's possible that this odd size may be the result of some changes in manufacture. The oil drain plug on this 2004 is not 15mm, as indicated on the 6tech site, but 13mm.