Transmission fluids are essential for any car or vehicle to run smoothly, and it is essential to know which type of fluid suits your car. Unfortunately, there are different types of fluids available in the market, and it is often confusing to pick the right one for your vehicle. In addition, fluids come in different grades with specifications and properties. As a car owner, have you ever asked, ” what transmission fluid is needed for my car?”. Read the article to know the types of transmission fluids available.
What Is Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid is vital for any vehicle as motor oil. Unfortunately, most drivers do not pay close attention to using transmission fluids, without which there is a chance that your car could burn up entirely. To keep your vehicle in condition, it is essential to change the motor oil and transmission fluid regularly.
Transmission Fluid Types
Depending on the manufacturer, model of car, and year of manufacturing, specific transmission fluid is used for proper transmission, performance, and protection. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use proper fluid and change the fluid in proper intervals.
1. Dexron and Mercon
Dexron is the most common ATF used in the market. Most of the GM or Ford cars recommend Dexron transmission fluids for their cars for proper maintenance. Mercon is also recommended by Ford and GM companies for their cars.
2. Multi-vehicle Transmission Fluids
Multi-vehicle transmission fluids also carry the certifications approved by GM, Ford, and Chrysler and suitable for European and Japanese vehicles.
3. Type F Fluids
Type F is used for cars manufactured in the year 1970s. This type of fluids was widely used in the past but not at present as they did not include friction modifiers, which help in reducing friction on the lubricated parts.
4. Synthetic Fluids
Synthetic fluids are most commonly used today and meet the specifications of Dexron and Mercon. Synthetic fluids offer better protection, more heat resistance, cold resistance, friction, oxidation, and shearing. Even though synthetic fluids are costly, most manufacturers are recommending them.
5. Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs)
CVTs are gaining popularity as they are improving fuel economy. CVTs are known as step transmissions as they have distinct gear shifts. CVT fluids are used to ensure proper performance and protection.
6. HFM
Highly Friction Modified or HFMs are types of transmission fluids that provide different characteristics than Dexron or Mercon. Some of the leading manufacturers that use HFM are
Honda
Jeep
Eagle
Hyundai
Toyota
Lexus
Conclusion
The proper time for changing fluid for your vehicle is defined on the owner’s manual, and the intervals may change if the vehicle is operated in severe conditions. VCS is the supplier of high-quality oils and transmission fluids for over 10 years in Canada. Contact us for more information.