Automatic Transmission Fluid Types. Car and truck makers have different specifications for the ATF in their vehicles. Check your car or truck’s owner’s manual to see which type you need. In general, synthetic ATFs allow a car or truck to shift more easily and smoothly, which prolongs the life of the transmission.
Can I use any type of automatic transmission fluid?
Unless you’re talking about a classic car or an antique, you can be pretty sure your car doesn’t use Type F. Dexron III/Mercon – This is one of the most common fluids on the market. … If your owners manual recommends any form of Dexron, or any Mercon – other than Mercon V – this is the fluid you want.
What transmission oil do I need for my car?
What Transmission Fluid Do I Need?
| Car Make | Transmission Fluid Type |
|---|---|
| Ford Mercury Lincoln | Mercon V |
| Ford (DuratecHE) MAZDA (Europe / Asia) | Mercon LV |
| GM Toyota (pre-2004) | Dexron VI |
| All Honda (except CVT) Acura (except CVT) | ATF DW-1 |
What is the difference between Type F and Dexron transmission fluid?
What is the difference between DEXRON® III/MERCON® and type F transmission fluid? The Valvoline Type F transmission fluid is a high quality NON-friction modified fluid. DEXRON® III/MERCON includes friction modifiers in the fluid additive package.
Will any transmission fluid work?
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.
Does transmission fluid brand matter?
Brand doesn’t matter but fluid specifications really do, especially with automatic trans fluids. Put the wrong stuff in and your clutch packs burn out fast. Same applied to limited slip differentials. It has to do with the ‘friction modifiers’, additives designed to make the clutches slip (or not) properly.
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 happens if you 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.
Can I mix Type F transmission fluid?
The two fluids mix with no problem. You can also use 7176 in older TFs but it won’t give the firmer shifts of Type F.
Why You Should Never flush your transmission fluid?
Pressure flushing can cause aging seals to start leaking. When it leaks more than a quart it could burn up the unit. Flushing does not cause the transmission to fail but it may speed up the process because it pushed metal particles back through the system.
What is the average life of an automatic transmission?
Time and mileage vary between car drivers and how they use or abuse their transmissions. Still, typical automatic transmissions last around 150,00 to 200,000 miles or approximately 7 years. Cases exist in both extremes; extreme longevity and early failure.
How do I know when my transmission fluid needs to be changed?
Signs That You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid
- Puddles under your car. …
- Roaring sounds when you accelerate or go around corners. …
- Difficulty shifting. …
- Engine revving when going around corners.
- A chattering noise when you start driving. …
- A slight burning smell.
- Warning light.