Is Transmission Fluid the Same as Engine Oil?
1 Answers
Transmission fluid and engine oil are not the same. Engine oil is the lubricant for the engine system, possessing certain properties such as oxidation resistance, anti-wear, and anti-corrosion. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is primarily used to keep the gear system clean, ensuring the proper functioning of the transmission and extending the lifespan of the transmission components. More detailed explanations are as follows: 1. Theoretically, transmission fluid and engine oil serve similar functions—they are both lubricants, mainly providing lubrication, cleaning, rust prevention, and heat dissipation. 2. The primary role of transmission fluid is to maintain the cleanliness of the vehicle's gear system. It lubricates and cools the gear system. During driving, the gears operate at high speeds, generating heat through friction. This is where transmission fluid comes in to lubricate and reduce temperature, ensuring the vehicle operates smoothly. 3. Engine oil is mainly used to lubricate the engine system, providing lubrication, cooling, sealing against leaks, rust and corrosion prevention, as well as shock absorption. The condition of engine oil directly impacts the performance and lifespan of the engine, making it a critical automotive consumable. Therefore, car owners must pay close attention to the use of engine oil in daily maintenance. 4. Their main differences are determined by their working load characteristics, such as varying contact pressures, operating temperature conditions, and viscosity. Engine oil is used for the normal operation of the engine, enduring the highest temperatures and having the lowest viscosity. Transmission fluid, used in the transmission, operates at lower temperatures and has a higher viscosity than engine oil.
