What is the difference between Aisin ATF and AFW transmission fluids?
2 Answers
These two products are not comparable, as one is used for manual transmissions and the other for automatic transmissions. The introductions of ATF and manual transmission fluid are as follows: Introduction to ATF: ATF is a high-end product that combines multiple functions such as lubricating oil, hydraulic oil, and gear oil. It circulates throughout various components of the automatic transmission, performing multiple tasks including lubrication, anti-wear, anti-corrosion, anti-rust, cooling, and cleaning. Manual transmission fluid: Generally referred to as gear oil, the American Petroleum Institute classifies automotive gear oils into five grades (GL-1 to GL-5) based on their quality levels. GL-1 to GL-3 have lower performance requirements and are used for lubricating spur and bevel gears under general load conditions, as well as gears in transmissions and steering mechanisms.
I've been driving for almost a decade and often do my own maintenance. The main differences between Aisin ATF and AFW transmission fluids lie in their formulations and application scenarios. ATF is the traditional automatic transmission fluid, suitable for older vehicle models, with moderate viscosity and good stability. However, if used in newer vehicles, it can easily cause gear shift jerks. AFW is a fully synthetic upgraded version, specifically designed for modern transmissions, with stronger additives and superior anti-wear performance, providing smoother driving and better fuel efficiency. When selecting transmission fluid, I always refer to the vehicle manual—choosing the wrong one can damage the transmission or lead to costly repairs, so I recommend getting it checked at a professional shop. The oil change intervals also differ: ATF typically needs replacement every 40,000 km, while AFW can last up to 60,000 km. In short, AFW is more suitable for newer models that prioritize efficiency. Don’t mix them just to save money—proper maintenance keeps your car trouble-free.