What Are the Types of Manual Transmission Fluid?
3 Answers
Manual transmission fluids come in types such as Dexron, Dexron II, Dexron III, and ATFF. Manual transmission fluid helps keep the gear system clean and lubricates to extend the lifespan of the transmission components. Effects of overfilling manual transmission fluid: 1. Increased internal operating resistance of the transmission, leading to abnormal oil leaks; 2. Agitation of the fluid by rotating components can cause air bubbles; 3. Abnormal oil pressure may lead to air blockages in the control valve's oil drain holes, causing poor drainage; 4. May result in gear shifting shocks. Precautions for changing manual transmission fluid: 1. Choose the appropriate viscosity when changing the fluid to avoid power loss; 2. Do not mix different types of transmission fluids to prevent adverse effects on the vehicle; 3. Avoid using low-quality transmission fluid; 4. Ensure no contaminants are introduced during the fluid change process.
I've been tinkering with a lot of manual transmission oil change issues, and the model selection is quite particular. The most common viscosity grade is SAE 75W-90, which is suitable for most sedans and SUVs. For example, the API GL-4 grade specifically protects synchronizer components and has excellent anti-wear effects. If you drive in cold regions, 75W series oil can prevent freezing and starting difficulties. Some models, like older Japanese cars, may use SAE 80W or 85W oil, which is cheaper but has poorer fluidity. Enthusiasts with modified cars might opt for GL-4 or GL-5 grades to handle high loads, but be aware that GL-5 oil contains corrosive additives and should not be used indiscriminately in regular cars, as it can damage gears. I always remind my friends to check the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals, usually every five years or 60,000 kilometers, to avoid gear-shifting stiffness and ensure smooth driving. Remember, synthetic oil is durable but expensive, while mineral oil is cost-effective and suitable for low-mileage vehicles.
As a manual transmission owner with over a decade of driving experience, I've noticed the wide variety of gear oil specifications. My compact family car uses GL-4 grade SAE 75W-80 synthetic oil, delivering butter-smooth gear shifts; while my neighbor's pickup truck prefers SAE 80W-90 GL-5 oil for superior load-bearing capacity. Vehicle types make big differences: compact cars often use 75W-series oil to prevent cold-start issues, European models like Volkswagen may specify 75W-85 specialty oil, whereas American vehicles tend to favor 75W-90 universal type. I remember when I mistakenly used wrong oil last time, it caused stiff shifting until I switched back to the manual-recommended fluid. A money-saving tip is using compatible branded universal GL-4 oil - never opt for cheap no-name products; check oil level and color every 40,000-50,000 km - replace if it turns black. Always select viscosity seasonally: thicker for summer, thinner for winter to ensure safe driving.
