What oil should be used for Honda AT transmission?
2 Answers
Honda AT transmission recommends using GAC Honda's dedicated ATF-Z1 automatic transmission fluid. Benefits of transmission oil change: Makes gear shifting smoother, cleans and lubricates the shifting system, prolongs the service life of the transmission device, ensures normal operation of the transmission, and to some extent reduces fuel consumption. Symptoms of not changing transmission oil: Decreased power, sluggish performance during acceleration with loud engine RPM but no actual speed increase, burned transmission causing overheating and damage to bearings and gears, difficulty starting, short travel distance when pressing accelerator at low gears despite RPM increase, gear shifting hesitation with unsmooth transitions and abnormal noises from the transmission.
When driving my Honda, I often struggle with choosing the right transmission fluid. Honda's automatic transmissions are particularly picky about fluids and require specialized OEM products, such as the ATF DW-1 model. Generic supermarket fluids won't cut it. Once, I tried saving time with a no-name brand, and the car developed severe jerking—costing me hundreds in repairs. I've since learned my lesson and strictly use Honda-recommended fluids as per the manual, changing every 40,000 km or two years. Aged fluid can damage internal transmission components, leading to poor shifting or increased noise. It's wise to check fluid levels before driving; if it appears cloudy or discolored, replace it immediately. Beginners can look up their car's model and year online to find the correct fluid specification—don't get tricked into buying the wrong type. In short, proper maintenance is a small investment that saves big money. With the right fluid, your car will run smoothly and quietly.
