Are All Transmission Fluids The Same?

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 kind of transmission fluid you use?

Some transmission fluids are very incompatible with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids . Your car transmission needs the correct fluid, as specified by your car manufacturer, to run correctly and to the fullest length of life.

Is transmission fluid different for each car?

The fluid requirements for CVT transmissions are very different versus a typical stepped gear transmission . Each specific CVT fluid is formulated for a specific transmission; however, oil marketers have been able to demonstrate good performance with a single CVT oil across many different transmission designs.

What happens if I use the wrong transmission fluid?

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.

Is tranny fluid universal?

Ultra1PlusTM Transmission Fluid Full Synthetic ATF Universal is a universal automatic transmission lubricant which is suitable for use in nearly all makes and models of automatic transmissions including passenger cars, light trucks, heavy-duty trucks, commercial vehicles, as well as off-road vehicles.

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 use any brand transmission fluid?

Fluid Type

Start by checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This will show you exactly which type of transmission fluid you need, so you’re prepared to pick the best one in that class. Keep in mind that most cars use either Dexron or Mercon, but some imports will require brand-specific transmission fluid .

What are the signs of low transmission fluid?

• Noises. ...
• Burning Smell. ...
• Transmission Leaks. ...
• Slipping Gears. ...
• Slow Gear Engagement. ...
• Vehicle Accelerates Poorly. ...
• Check Engine or Transmission Warning Light Is On.

Can changing transmission fluid ruin transmission?

Changing your fluid cannot cause any damage by itself, if everything is fine inside the transmission . The issues start to appear when you change the fluid if your clutches are already worn or damaged from use. If you go and replace the fluid after they are already worn out. this can cause slipping.

Is it OK to mix synthetic transmission fluid with regular?

Synthetic transmission fluid is less likely to break down in high-heat environments, allowing the transmission to last longer. According to Mobil and Valvoline, both of which offer synthetic and mineral-based transmission fluid for a range of automobiles, mixing regular ATF and synthetic transmission fluid is allowed .

Can I use DEXRON 3 instead of ATF 4?

Fina’s product data sheet for its “Dexron-III/Mercon ATF” says it is recommended for “all late model GM...Chrysler and most imported car...automatic transmissions, as well as, (sic) those in Ford vehicles that call for a Mercon fluid.” But, again, a fluid compatible with Dexron III or Mercon is not going to be ...

Are there different types of transmission fluid?

In general, there are two main types of transmission fluids: automatic transmission fluid and manual transmission fluid . There is also synthetic transmission fluid and specialty fluids used and specified in various types of transmissions including CVT and dual clutch models.

Is transmission fluid generic?

Generics are always cheaper and appear to be the same, but there are some differences . It is also the case with transmission fluid and other fluids your vehicle needs to function properly. The major difference between generics and manufacturer recommended fluids are usually the fillers used to produce the generic.

Can I use dexron III instead of dexron VI?

DEXRON-VI can be used in any proportion in past model vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, in place of DEXRON-III (for instance, topping off the fluid in the event of a repair or fluid change). DEXRON-VI is also compatible with any former version of DEXRON for use in automatic transmissions.

Why you should never change transmission fluid?

Remember, dirty fluid is not an effective lubricant, so it won’t disperse well . Once the clutch packs lose their grip, old fluid may be all that’s creating the friction needed to keep your transmission from slipping.

Why does my transmission slip after fluid change?

Old or burnt lubricant becomes discolored and creates varnish deposits floating around . So, how can changing transmission fluid cause problems? The answer is the leftover deposits won’t go away but stay in the system as the residue and stick to the internal filters, which block the liquid from flowing smoothly.

Can I change my transmission fluid without changing the filter?

Many transmission manufacturers use only a screen on the fluid pickup to filter out any casting flaws or debris that could be poured down the dipstick. Some manufacturers do not recommend changing the filter . The fluid will break down and needs to be changed, the filters do not plug up on a healthy transmission.

Can you mix automatic transmission fluid brands?

Yes. Synthetic ATF and conventional fluids are 100 percent compatible with each other .

Can I just add transmission fluid?

Insert long funnel into automatic transmission fluid dipstick hole. Carefully add automatic transmission fluid in small increments and recheck level each time until fluid level reaches “warm” line . CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFILL OR SPILL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID ON HOT ENGINE PARTS!

Will check engine light come on for transmission fluid?

Your transmission fluid plays an important role in keeping the parts of the system lubricated. If the parts of the transmission are not properly lubricated, extreme friction can occur, which could result in damage. As a result, the check engine light can be triggered . Check the fluid levels and add some, if needed.

Can transmission fluid get low without a leak?

We researched several professional sources to find out the cause. A vehicle will lose transmission fluid only when there’s a leak . Because there is no combustion with this fluid, it cannot burn off or evaporate while in an air-tight space. If you are running low on this fluid, it is because of a leak.

Is it safe to change transmission fluid on high mileage?

Changing the transmission fluid on a high-mileage car is risky . Don’t do it unless your transmission is running fine and the fluid is first-rate, because it can make transmission failure imminent.

What is better transmission flush or drain?

In any case, choosing a fluid flush or a drain and refill is better than not performing any kind of maintenance on your transmission . With some vehicles, a fluid flush or change is irrelevant as they may have a sealed transmission. Refer to your owner’s manual to be sure.

Should I flush my transmission after 100k miles?

Do You Need to Have the Transmission Fluid Changed? The simple answer is yes. But service intervals for new vehicles can exceed 100,000 miles before this needs to be done .

Who makes the best automatic transmission fluid?

• #TOP 1. ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9395 Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid – 1 gal. CLICK FOR PRICE Read Review. ...
• #TOP 2. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid 1 GA. ...
• #TOP 3. Ford XT-10-QLVC 5 Quart Mercon-Lv Automatic Transmission Fluid 1 Pack.

Is dexron 6 full synthetic?

Valvoline Dexron VI/Mercon LV ATF is the full-synthetic automatic transmission fluid that has been uniquely engineered to meet and exceed the requirements of the General Motors Dexron VI specification and is officially licensed and approved by GM.

Can you use synthetic transmission fluid in older cars?

Yes, synthetic automatic transmission fluid is certainly compatible with older transmissions . It can provide a nice performance and protection upgrade. Synthetic ATF will have similar viscosity and frictional properties to conventional ATF.

Are all Dexron fluids compatible?

Yes, DEXRON-VI fluid can be used on any vehicle type that calls for DEXRON transmission fluid .

What color is ATF +4?

Is Dexron III still available?

All Dexron-III (H) licenses expired permanently at the end of 2011 , and GM now supports only Dexron-VI fluids for use in their older automatic transmissions. Aftermarket fluids asserted by their manufacturers to meet Dexron-III(H) and earlier standards continue to be sold under names such as Dex/Merc.

How can you tell the difference between transmission fluid?

You’ll be able to differentiate between those fluids and transmission fluid by the consistency and smell . Identify the consistency and smell of the leaking fluid. Transmission fluid is a slick liquid that’s oily to the touch, much like engine oil or brake fluid. It usually smells similar to petroleum.

How often does transmission fluid need to be changed?

If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles . If you have automatic, you can typically boost that range up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles. There’s no harm in changing your fluid early.

What is the difference between Dex 3 and Dex 6?

Dexton VI is an improved, semi-synthetic blend. Dextron VI is backward compatible, but Dextron III is not forward compatable . GM no longer licenses the Dextron III formula. If your original transmission was designed to use Dextron III, you can still use it (if you can find it).

Is ATF and Dexron 3 the same?

ATF Dexron-III is an automatic transmission fluid formulated to meet the requirements of the General Motors Specifications GM 6297M for a Dexron®III Fluid and Ford Mercon® for Ford transmission.

What can be used in place of Dexron VI?

The best trans oil is actually one Allison recommends, a TES-295 synthetic to replace both Dex III and Dex VI.

Are there different types of transmission fluid?

In general, there are two main types of transmission fluids: automatic transmission fluid and manual transmission fluid . There is also synthetic transmission fluid and specialty fluids used and specified in various types of transmissions including CVT and dual clutch models.