Automatic transmission fluid is a critical component of any automatic transmission. Also referred to as ATF, this fluid ensures proper operation, performance and protection of the automatic transmission.
Can I use any ATF in my car?
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 ATF the same as transmission fluid?
Automatic transmission fluid, commonly referred to as ATF, ensures proper operation, performance and protection of the automatic transmission. This fluid is generally red in color with the exception of the fluid made specifically for Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs).
Which types of ATF is used on today’s vehicles?
These days there are a number of different types of ATF available, each formulated for specific types of transmissions. The most common types are Dexron/Mercon and Multi-Vehicle Synthetic.
What is ATF for cars? – Related Questions
How often should I change ATF fluid?
Wondering when to change your automatic transmission fluid (ATF)? Most manufacturers recommend replacing transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but this varies by vehicle and how it is driven.
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.
What is the difference between ATF and ATF 4?
ATF +4 is a synthetic fluid for finely-tuned transmissions, so if you use a non-synthetic ATF rather than ATF +4 in a car or truck that calls for it, you could break the transmission. You may use ATF +4 in most applications that call for older Dexron and Mercon fluids.
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.
Is Synthetic ATF better?
The main advantage to using a synthetic ATF is superior thermal stability. Performance automatics with high-stall converters generate an immense amount of heat. Heat tends to destroy the fluid’s additive packages and reducing their performance, which can result in inconsistency as read on the time slip.
Is all ATF 4 full synthetic?
Description. Valvoline ATF +4 is the full-synthetic automatic transmission fluid that has been uniquely engineered to meet and exceed the requirements of (FCA) Fiat Chrysler automatic transmissions and is officially licensed and approved for all ATF +4 applications including Chrysler, Dodge and Ram.
Can you mix different brands of ATF 4?
It is further recommended that you do not mix ATF+4® with another automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
What does the +4 mean in ATF?
ATF +4 is a synthetic fluid for finely-tuned transmissions, so if you use a non-synthetic ATF instead of ATF +4 in a car or truck that calls for it, you could damage the transmission. You may use ATF +4 in most applications that call for older Dexron and Mercon fluids.
Is it OK to use ATF in power steering?
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the same fluid used inside the automatic transmission. ATF can also be used in some power steering systems. Some ATF types include Dexron and Mercon. Synthetic power steering fluid is a non-oil-based fluid that’s created in a lab.
Can you mix ATF 4 and dexron?
Yes, you can. The three-speeds can take Dexron II and up, any Chrysler fluid, and they can be mixed. It’s probably better to have all one fluid, but you can add ATF+4. The three speed doesn’t require ATF+4 to function properly; it’s just now the only fluid recommended for all applications.
What ATF does Toyota recommend?
Genuine Toyota ATF – WS is Toyota’s “World Standard” automatic transmission fluid. Specifically formulated for use in Toyota sealed automatic transmissions. Provides optimum frictional performance and durability for consistently smooth shifting over the life of the transmission.
Can I use ATF 4 in Toyota?
ATF TYPE T-IV is a fully synthetic automatic transmission fluid specially engineered to exceed the service fill requirement of all TOYOTA and LEXUS vehicles installed with AISIN WARNER gearboxes, where ATF T-IV fluid is recommended.
Is Toyota ATF dexron?
Dealerships say that Toyota transmission fluid is the same as any dexron III fluid.
What is the difference between ATF and dexron?
Dexron is the trade name for a group of technical specifications of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) created by General Motors (GM).
Is ATF better than power steering fluid?
No because ATF is superior to power steering fluid when it comes to its additives. Power steering fluid lacks detergents that filter dirt and grease away. It also doesn’t have friction modifiers needed to keep excessive heat buildup at bay.