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Guide

Low severityTransmission2 min readUpdated
On this page
  1. Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
  2. Toyota WS
  3. Honda ATF DW-1
  4. Ford Mercon V / LV / ULV
  5. GM Dexron VI
  6. Chrysler / Mopar ATF+4
  7. CVT Fluid
  8. DCT Fluid
  9. Manual Transmission Fluid
  10. Differential Fluid
  11. Common mistakes
  12. Using "universal" ATF
  13. Mixing ATF brands
  14. Skipping the trans fluid service
  15. Using ATF in CVT
  16. Related guides

Transmission Fluid Types

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Toyota WS

Used in most Toyota and Lexus 6-speed automatics (2008+) and some 8-speeds. Specifically Toyota WS — DO NOT substitute generic ATF or Dexron.

Honda ATF DW-1

Honda automatic transmissions 2010+. Honda ATF Z-1 was used earlier. Honda is sensitive to using only their ATF.

Ford Mercon V / LV / ULV

Mercon V for older Ford automatics. Mercon LV (low viscosity) for later. Mercon ULV for newest. Wrong type can cause shudder.

GM Dexron VI

Backwards compatible with Dexron III applications. Many GM 6-speed automatics use this.

Chrysler / Mopar ATF+4

Specific to Chrysler. Don't substitute.

CVT Fluid

CVTs use CVT fluid specifically formulated for belt or chain drive. Do NOT use ATF in a CVT — destroys the belt/chain within hours.

Honda CVT fluid, Toyota CVT fluid, Subaru CVT, Nissan CVT all specific to their platforms.

DCT Fluid

Dual-clutch transmissions (DSG, PDK, MCT) use specific DCT fluid that handles wet clutch packs.

VW DSG, Audi S-tronic, BMW DCT all have specific fluids.

Manual Transmission Fluid

Most manuals use GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90 viscosity.

Some manuals use ATF (especially Honda manuals). Others use specifically light gear oils.

Always check owner's manual; substituting wrong fluid affects synchro performance.

Differential Fluid

Hypoid gear oil 75W-90 GL-5 typical. Limited-slip differentials add friction modifier.

Common mistakes

Using "universal" ATF

Universal ATFs claim to work in all applications. In practice, modern manufacturer-specific specs include unique friction modifiers that universals don't match precisely. Use OEM spec.

Mixing ATF brands

Generally compatible if same spec. But always change rather than mix when possible.

Skipping the trans fluid service

Modern "sealed" transmissions aren't truly maintenance-free. Honda specifies fluid service intervals; many "lifetime" claims are marketing.

Using ATF in CVT

Destroys the CVT within hours of operation. Most expensive transmission fluid mistake possible.

Related guides

FAQ

Can I use ATF in a CVT?
No — destroys the CVT. CVTs need CVT-specific fluid. Most expensive single transmission fluid mistake possible.
How often should I change transmission fluid?
Modern automatics: 60,000-100,000 miles depending on platform. CVTs typically 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual gear oil 50,000-100,000 miles. Check manufacturer's spec.