What is Another Name for Transmission Oil?

[BrantleyFitz]

Gear oil has different classifications and models. Transmission oil is one type of gear oil. Types of transmission oil: Transmission oil is generally divided into three types: manual transmission oil, automatic transmission oil, and continuously variable transmission oil. Manual transmission oil is commonly known as gear oil, automatic transmission oil is commonly referred to as ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid), and continuously variable transmission oil is commonly called CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid). Performance and maintenance methods of transmission oil: Transmission oil functions to reduce friction, minimize wear, control clutch friction, and optimize synchronizer performance. It also supports load-bearing (low-speed high torque, vibration loads), heat dissipation, vibration and noise reduction, and removes contaminants from gear meshing (cleaning function). Additionally, it prevents corrosion, pitting, and surface metal stripping by isolating metal surfaces to avoid direct contact. Transmission oil should be promptly replaced when experiencing symptoms such as vehicle shaking, gear shift hesitation, or a transmission overheating warning on the dashboard.

[Brayden]

In our industry, we usually call transmission fluid 'gearbox oil,' and experienced drivers refer to it the same way. The type specifically for automatic transmission cars is called ATF, which stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid. For manual transmissions, some people call it gear oil, but it's best not to confuse it—the real gear oil is used in the differential. This fluid must be changed regularly as required by the vehicle; otherwise, the transmission might fail prematurely. I've seen cases where people didn't change it for seven or eight years, resulting in jerky gear shifts like riding a horse, and repairs cost them thousands.

[MacWalker]

The terminology varies by region. In auto repair shops, mechanics often refer to it as transmission fluid because it's specifically designed to lubricate the gears and bearings inside the gearbox. Some car enthusiasts make finer distinctions, calling it ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for automatic transmissions and MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid) for manual transmissions. A special note: the fluids used in turbocharged vehicles and electric vehicles are different, with EVs requiring more precise formulations for their transmission systems. Just helped my neighbor check his old Fit – it was having gear-shifting difficulties due to low-quality gearbox oil, but after switching to full synthetic fluid, the shifts became much smoother.

[LaChase]

It's commonly called gearbox oil, and in Hong Kong, it's also referred to as engine oil. The formulations for automatic and manual transmissions are completely different, and the bottles will be labeled ATF or MTF. When choosing, make sure to check for the original factory certification, such as Volkswagen requiring G052-certified oil. During the last maintenance, the technician mentioned that many CVT transmissions now require specialized oil, as mixing can cause slippage. This oil isn't just for lubrication; it also serves a hydraulic transmission function. Oil that's reached the end of its life will turn black and contain metal shavings.