Description:
Automatic transmission fluid is specially
formulated oil
™
containing numerous
additives to withstand grueling operating conditions. There are several different
types of automatic transmission fluids and should be used according to
the recommendation in your car's owner's manual. Some examples
include:
- DEXRON® III/MERCON® - Recommended for all
automatic transmissions requiring DEXRON® III, DEXRON® IIE,
DEXRON® II, DEXRON® or MERCON ® transmission fluids. It can also
be used where fluids meeting Ford ESP-M2C138CJ or Ford M2C166-H
specifications are required.
- ATF+3®—Formulated exclusively for Chrysler
Corp. automatic transmissions/transaxles where a Chrysler MS-7176,
Mopar® or Mopar ATF+3® is specified.
- Type F (FLM) is a specially compounded fluid meeting the
latest Ford ESW-M2C33F and is compatible with all M2C33 series
Ford specifications. In all 1983 and later model Ford automatic
transmissions use DEXRON ® III/MERCON ® or MERCON ® V Automatic
Transmission Fluids.
Purpose:
Automatic transmission fluid serves a multitude
of purposes. Among other things, it cleans, cools, lubricates, transmits force,
transmits pressure, inhibits varnish build-up and protects the transmission on a
day-to-day basis.
Maintenance Tips/Suggestions: Owner's manual recommendations on
transmission fluid changes vary considerably and may go as high as
100,000 miles or more. For best results, have your car's
transmission fluid and filter changed every two years or 24,000
miles. Always use the type of fluid specified
by your car's manufacturer. This information can be found in the
owner's manual or on the end of the transmission
dipstick. The overwhelming majority of transmission
failures are heat-related, and automatic transmission fluid breaks down rapidly when
subjected to high temperatures. Driving conditions such as trailer towing,
quick stops and starts, ascending and descending mountains, and
wheel-spinning in slippery conditions are but a few scenarios that can devastate
the life of the transmission fluid. Although changing the fluid
yourself is not difficult, it's probably best
left to a qualified service technician. This is also a
good time to drain the transmission fluid
from the torque converter, if possible. Consult your technician to
see if this can be done.
