Using the wrong fluid can
cause poor lubrication, overheating, and possibly transmission failure
. A mechanic might not be able to reverse the damage, even by flushing the transmission. Mistakenly adding motor oil or brake fluid can also destroy your transmission.
Are all transmission fluids the same?
Automatic transmission fluids have specific viscosities, friction coefficients, and additives. ATFs are engineered to work with the design of specific automatic transmissions.
They are not all the same
.
Does it matter what transmission fluid I use?
Each car has its own recommendations from the manufacturer on which transmission fluid your car needs. Some transmission fluids are
very incompatible
with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids.
Is it OK to mix transmission fluids?
Is it OK to mix synthetic ATF with a conventional and/or synthetic blend ATF?
Yes
. Synthetic ATF and conventional fluids are 100 percent compatible with each other.
Do cars need specific transmission fluid?
Yes,
even a manual needs transmission fluid
. The type of fluid can vary from car to car, however. Some manuals require conventional engine oil, and others function best with automatic transmission fluid. So make sure you're putting in the fluid that's specified for your car.
Can you mix old and new transmission fluid?
This fluid starts to lose its standard properties and should be changed to keep the transmission parts and its performance at its peak. Mixing old and news fluids
wont give you the ideal viscosity
and the reduces the performance of the transmission system.
Can I fill my transmission fluid through the dipstick?
The transmission itself is full of fluid that keeps everything running smoothly. … To avoid this, you can use the transmission fluid dipstick to monitor the level of fluid inside of the automatic transmission and, if necessary, add fluid
to the transmission
.
Is Synthetic Transmission Fluid better?
A synthetic fluid has the capability of providing your transmission with a smoother operation. Because of superior engineering, the synthetic fluid
is better at lubricating your transmission
and is able to sustain its viscosity in a broad temperature range. … This will likely be true even with variations in temperatures.
What is the difference between dexron III and dexron VI?
Dexron VI is
a lot more stable at higher temperatures
and lasts longer. It can also be used to top off dexron 3, however, you can't use dexron 3 if you already have dexron 6 originally in your trans, or if it has been flushed with dexron 6.
What is the difference between ATF 3 and ATF 4?
Graphs in the paper show that the friction coefficient of fresh ATF+3 and ATF+4 is essentially identical, but as the fluid ages ATF+4 retains the “as new” coefficient while
ATF+3 degrades
.
Why You Should Never flush your transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid is highly detergent which can wash the varnish off clutches, causing it to slip.
Pressure flushing can cause aging seals to start leaking
. When it leaks more than a quart it could burn up the unit.
What vehicles use Type F transmission fluid?
Havoline Automatic Transmission Fluid Type F is recommended for automatic transmissions in
Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln passenger cars and light trucks
manufactured by Ford Motor Company and certain other makes prior to 1977, and some makes from 1977 to 1981 (consult the vehicle owners manual).
Does Toyota recommend transmission fluid change?
Toyota recommends that vehicles featuring an automatic transmission have their fluid changed
every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
. Vehicles with manual transmissions should have their fluid changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
How much should a transmission fluid change cost?
It depends on where you take it. At a mechanics shop or dealer, the price will likely range
between $80 to $250
. However, if you're willing and able to do it yourself, it should fall between $50-$100.
Is it better to drain or flush transmission fluid?
Proponents of transmission flushes will often argue that
a flush is a better service
because it replaces more of your transmission fluid. It's true that removing your transmission pan or draining your transmission via its drain plug (as your car manufacturer intends) only removes about 70% of the fluid inside.
Can I change transmission fluid myself?
You should change your automatic transmission fluid according to the manufacturer's recommendation— whether that's 30,000 or 100,000 miles. … Read on to learn how to change transmission fluid. A transmission flush-and-fill from a shop will cost you $149 to $199. But you can do it yourself and save about $100.
