subject: Use the Correct Type of Transmission Fluid to Prevent Mechanical Problems [print this page] Use the Correct Type of Transmission Fluid to Prevent Mechanical Problems
You mean that there is more than one type of transmission fluid? Never mind that they should change their car, truck or vans' automatic transmission fluid on a bi-yearly basis.
Simply put there is more than one type of auto transfer fluid. Next in line is that as an auto owner you have to change or top up the fluid with the exact and correct type. Servicing of an auto type ( as opposed to manual or standard ) transmissions which break down or need repair due to inadequate maintenance including the wrong type and specifications of tranny fluid as you hopefully have not experienced yet - is highly specialized, time consuming and costly.
What are the various types and variations of automotive automatic transmission fluids? Firstly there is type "A". "Type A' fluid was widely used in the past for the first and relatively simple, and none demanding early automatic transmissions models and setups. However, type "A' fluid was replaced by Dexron. Dexron in turn was replaced by "Dexron II".
For the most part now Type "F" and "Dexron II" are the two most common types of automatic transmission fluids that most motorists and auto owners need know and will encounter throughout their driving careers. Most Ford transmissions should have the type F whereas other transmissions used Dexron II. How to tell. The fluid type should be clearly labeled on the container with a clear visible stamp or emblem on the exterior of the plastic bottle or case.
It is most important to be able to distinguish that Type F and Dexron II fluids are not the same by any manner, form or characteristics they employ in working transmissions.
