What is the difference between transmission fluid and engine oil?
1 Answers
Transmission fluid and engine oil are not the same. Although both serve a lubricating function, these two fluids perform different roles. Differences: Engine oil is the lubricant for the engine system, possessing properties such as oxidation resistance, wear resistance, and corrosion prevention. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is primarily used to keep the gear shift system clean and to extend the service life of internal transmission components. Due to the different structures and operating environments of the transmission and the engine, transmission fluid cannot be used as engine oil, nor can engine oil be used as transmission fluid. Functions of transmission fluid: Reduce friction and wear, control clutch friction and synchronizer performance; bear loads (low speed, high torque, and vibration loads), dissipate heat, reduce vibration and noise, and remove contaminants from gear meshing areas (cleaning function); prevent corrosion, pitting, and surface metal tearing, isolate metal surfaces, and prevent direct contact between metal surfaces.