What Type of Transmission Fluid is Best for Cars?
2 Answers
Car transmission fluid types depend on the transmission: manual transmissions use gear oil, while automatic transmissions use transmission fluid. Below is relevant information about transmission fluid: 1. Functions of transmission fluid: Changing the transmission ratio to expand the range of torque and speed variations in the drive wheels. Adapting to frequently changing driving conditions, allowing the engine to operate under favorable circumstances. Ensuring the car can only reverse when the engine's rotation direction remains unchanged. Utilizing interrupted power transmission to facilitate gear shifting or power output. 2. Proper maintenance methods for automatic transmissions: Check the automatic transmission fluid by testing its viscosity between fingers; replace the fluid if it changes color or has a burnt smell. Adjust the linkage or cable connecting the gear selector lever to the manual valve, ensuring the manual handle position corresponds to the spring clip position inside the automatic transmission.
When it comes to choosing transmission fluid types, I believe personal experience is crucial. For example, when I used to drive an old manual car, I casually used a universal gear oil, which resulted in severe gear-shifting hesitation. Later, a friend recommended checking the manual, which specified using 75W-90 GL-4 grade oil. After switching to it, the shifting became much smoother. Now, driving an automatic car, the manual specifies ATF-type fluids, such as Mobil’s 3309, which performs excellently in automatic transmissions, whether on highways or in city driving. Climate also plays a big role—in northern winters, low-viscosity oil is recommended to prevent freezing, while in hot regions, high-viscosity oil helps avoid overheating. Don’t forget the oil change intervals either—the manual suggests changing every 60,000 km. I’ve tried several brands, and Castrol’s has proven reliable, though not cheap. In short, don’t guess the type—referring to the manual is the easiest, then pick a brand based on driving habits.
