No matter the type of transmission box you own, it is sure to need high-quality transmission fluid to keep things up and running.
Now, I'm not too uptight about the fluids we select for the transmission, but one dear reader requested that I talk about the best transmission fluid. And I'm not one to let go of the opportunity of diving deep into the market to search for the best product.
Hi! This is Stacy Smith bringing a list of the five best transmission fluids available and a helpful buying guide to assist you in your purchase. Since my family owns two MT82 vehicles, I decided to find the best transmission fluid for MT82 cars.
So, without wasting any time, check out my detailed reviews below…
Top 5 Transmission Fluids For MT82
1. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Transmission Fluid
Fully synthetic and versatile, the Valvoline Multi-Vehicle transmission fluid is a high-performing product that uses Max Life technology. This automatic transmission fluid is recommended for Dexron VI, Mercon LV, and DEX/MERC, among others.
Product Highlights
Two things about this transmission fluid stood out during first inspections - its fully synthetic base stocks and the use of advanced additives in the formula. With high-performance seal conditioners in the mix, this product can effectively maintain and preserve the elasticity of seals. Additionally, this fluid helps prevent leaks in the system when it comes to high mileage vehicles.
In order to improve transmission durability, this formula is developed with anti-wear technology that keeps the internal parts working smoothly for longer. In more ways than one, this fluid successfully prevents transmission breakdown and extends transmission life in nearly all kinds of vehicles.
Since the proprietary blend of components uses high-quality base oils and premium additives, you get the best ingredients for maximizing transmission life. Besides, the product has a better than average oil flow rate at lower temperatures than other fluids and also offers superior film protection at higher temperatures.
What's There To Like About It?
Probably the best part about choosing this transmission fluid is the versatility of use. If you have two vehicles and one of them is manual while the other is automatic, you can use the same product for both cars.
With a trusted brand like Valvoline, you get a well-rounded transmission fluid that takes care of fluid leaks while minimizing wear and corrosion. Even if you live in a place with an extreme climate, there is no need to worry about the transmission if you have this product.
What's There To Not Like About It?
As I mentioned earlier, this fluid is designed for many types of vehicles, yet there are some cars or trucks that will not benefit from it. Buyers need to read the print a bit carefully before buying so that they do not end up wasting money on a product they cannot use.
Pros and Cons of Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Transmission Fluid
Pros
Cons
- SUITABLE FOR USE IN 95% of ATF VEHICLES in operation with US registered light duty applications.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE CONDITIONING AGENTS prolong seal elasticity to prevent leaks
- IMPROVE DURABILITY & TRANSMISSION LIFE with anti-wear technology to avoid costly repairs, Superior anti-shudder performance
2. Castrol Transmax DEX/MERC Transmission Fluid
Next, I've decided to include Castrol Transmax DEX/MERC transmission fluid which is used for all Ford models from 1983 to 1996. This fluid is also used for General Motors 2005 models and earlier.
Product Highlights
Designed specifically for older car models, the Castrol Transmax is a product that covers all essential factors a transmission box needs. One of the first things to note is that this transmission fluid offers enhanced friction durability. Apart from maintaining its integrity, the fluid also ensures smoother transmission processes.
Plus, the fluid is precisely engineered to extend transmission life and function. Mercon and Dexron -IIIH have various specifications, and this product manages to meet its requirements. Oils that meet this specification are better at friction control and do not shudder as much. They also provide better foam control and generally have a longer fluid life.
In addition, this fluid is also used in power steering applications where Mercon is needed. Driving in the city, highway, or under scorching temperatures is no problem with this transmission fluid. It has superior temperature protection properties and resists oxidation that might change the fluid viscosity.
What's There To Like About It?
I liked that this product came in a variety of styles for different vehicles. You can choose between automatic, high mileage, import automatic, Mercon V, and Type F options and find the one that suits your car the best.
Additionally, this choice is ideal if you are struggling to find a decent transmission fluid for older models of Ford and General Motors models. I was impressed at its ability to increase transmission life, especially in the older car models.
What's There Not To Like About It?
While the Castrol Transmax is compatible with older Ford and GM car models, the Valvoline multi-vehicle fluid goes with Ford, GM, Toyota, and Honda models. In general, the Castrol transmission fluid is not as versatile as Valvoline, and its applications are slightly limited.
Plus, Valvoline has additives like seal conditioners that Castrol doesn't have.
Pros and Cons of Castrol Transmax DEX/MERC Transmission Fluid
Pros
Cons
- Enhanced friction durability for smooth transmission performance
- Superior high temperature protection to effectively resist oxidation
- Unsurpassed protection against copper corrosion
3. Red Line Manual Transmission Fluid
The Red Line manual transmission fluid is a fully synthetic gear oil and transaxle lubricant that is ideal for high-performing cars and trucks. The GL-4 lubricant classifies as SAE 75W80, but its functions are not limited to this.
Product Highlights
First off, the Red Line synthetic oil provides high-performance gear protection and increases the Syncro life drastically. When it comes to gear oil viscosity, the product satisfies the requirements of 75W and 80W with motor oil viscosities of SAE 30, 5W30, and 10W30. The reason why this product is popular is mainly due to its ability to offer quick gear changes in manual vehicles.
Since other synthetic oils are designed for automatic vehicles, they may be too slippery and lack a balanced grip. But with this manual transmission fluid, users get better friction control for a better response to hand movements.
Usually, GL-5 oils contain potent ingredients like reactive sulfurs that cause damage to internal car parts. But, this product does not contain any such reactive and is entirely safe for brass Synchro rings. The rings are not at risk of damage, and you can use them in GL-1, GL-3, and GL-4 applications without any worries.
What's There To Like About It?
Manual car types are better off with a manual transmission liquid, and this option is ideal if you do not want a generalized transmission oil. Since the company's establishment in 1979, you can be sure to receive the best gear oil for manual cars without any compromises.
This fluid is a popular choice for several car types, including Honda, BMW, Ford Focus, Range Rover LT77S, Mitsubishi, and many more. After the application, most users feel an immediate difference in shifting gears manually.
What's There To Not Like About It?
Although I liked this product, I am aware that everyone may not enjoy using this transmission fluid. Instead, some users may prefer to stick to automatic or multi-vehicle options.
Plus, the gear oil by Red Line is not as temperature resistant as the one from Valvoline or Castrol. Users noticed a crunchy feeling while shifting gears, and operating the shifts was more difficult during the winters.
Pros and Cons of Red Line Manual Transmission Fluid
Pros
Cons
- LONGER SYNCHRO LIFE - High-performance gear protection, satisfies the gear oil viscosity requirements of 75W, 80W and motor oil viscosities of SAE 30, 10W30, 5W30
- OFFERS QUICKER SHIFTS - MLT Gear Oil with balanced friction control for most manual transmission synchronizers. Other synthetic gear oils are often too slippery
- SAFE FOR BRASS SYNCHROS - As it lacks the reactive sulfurs found in most GL-5 oils that cause damage. Recommended for GL-1, GL-3 & GL-4 applications
4. Royal Purple Synchromax Manual Transmission Fluid
Since I am reviewing fluids for MT82 transmission types, it only makes sense to include another manual fluid option, the Royal Purple Synchromax. This high-performance synthetic oil comes fortified with Synerlec and provides smoother shifts while driving.
Product Highlights
Royal Purple has come up with Synchromax, which works well on manual transmission systems that may require automatic transmission fluid. It is the ideal choice if the car instructions state that transmission fluid must be of the lightly-viscous lubricant variety.
Powered with a high-performing synthetic proprietary blend, this transmission fluid offers a range of functions that improve user experience. The Synerlec additive technology is responsible for the smooth shifting of gears, reduced gear shuddering, lowering noise, and temperature control.
Moreover, this product is compatible with all sorts of friction materials, and it works effortlessly as a lubricant to smoothen the gear functions. Also, this fluid is excellent at preventing rust formation and corrosion by protecting the parts against oxidation. As a result of lowered friction and next to no incidences of rust, the transmission performance is enhanced incredibly well.
What's There To Like About It?
One of the main differences users will experience is the reduced noise and clutter from the transmission and a smooth gear-changing experience. The difference is noticeable after a few gear changes, and the friction in the internal system is reduced to the minimum.
Since this product uses advanced technology (Synerlec) and includes additives that enhance transmission performance, the operating temperatures are lowered as a result. This prevents the car from heating up due to strain on the transmission box.
What's There To Not Like About It?
Similar to Red Line, the Royal Purple Synchromax is also specially designed for manual shift gears. But, it might not cater to the same range of vehicles that Red Line does. Also, this product does not form additional film layers like the Valvoline fluid to protect against heat.
While Royal Purple does lower the friction in the system pretty well, the technology used by Castrol might be slightly better.
Pros and Cons of Royal Purple Synchromax Manual Transmission Fluid
Pros
Cons
- Greater wear protection
- Package Dimensions: 28.575 H x 8.636 L x 8.89 W (centimetres)
- Package Weight: 0.839 kilograms
5. Genuine Chrysler Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid
Mopar is the final option I've decided to shortlist today, and I think you should check it out since it is made using good quality ingredients. This automatic transmission fluid lasts in the system for a long time and improves gear movements significantly.
Product Highlights
The Genuine Chrysler Mopar ATF is specially developed to improve all aspects of the transmission box. One of the reasons it is included in the list is for its ingredients that provide excellent lubrication to gear parts and help them move smoothly.
Even if the car has been running for a long time, the gear oil does not change in structure and continues to work efficiently. The synthetic formula ensures that all internal parts of the gear are well-oiled and function effortlessly. This also reduces the clunking noises and harsh sounds that come from transmission if it is not well lubricated.
Besides, it is formulated to last for miles on end since it is powerful enough to withstand changing speeds and exposure to heat. Apart from thermal management, this transmission fluid is ideal for reducing the wear and damage that the parts will eventually go through.
What's There To Like About It?
I liked that this transmission fluid had the strength to withstand high loads and high heat while driving. It makes for the perfect gear oil if it matches the specifications that come with your car.
The brand likes to say its product will "fill for life," meaning one oil change is sure to last a very long time. In short, I think the product gives its fill for the price point.
What's There To Not Like About It?
While this product is good in its own right, I think other brands like Valvoline and Castrol did a better job at producing a versatile product. Even though the fluid claims to last a long time, it changes color only after a few hundred miles of driving.
Apart from that, this transmission fluid is generalized and not specialized for manual transmissions.
Pros and Cons of Genuine Chrysler Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid
Pros
Cons
- Specially developed
- Provides excellent lubrication under high load, high heat
- Factory filled ATF+4
Buyers Guide
Some of you may already know about the basics of transmission fluids and their gear lubricating properties. But, there is more to a gear oil than you think, and a handful of factors differentiate an excellent transmission oil from an average one.
Here are some aspects that you should keep in mind before buying a new brand of transmission fluid for MT82 or similar vehicles-
1. Type Of Transmission Fluid
Transmission types can be categorized in two different ways, and the first one divides them into three main types - conventional, synthetic, and synthetic blends. The synthetics ones are much more effective in the long run, and most experts recommend brands that use fully synthetic oils in their transmission fluid blend.
Synthetic fluids can withstand temperature better and do not break down easily, but they can be pretty expensive. Conventional ones are cheaper but may not last as long and will need replacements frequently.
Transmission fluids are also categorized into three other categories - Type F, Dexron III /Mercon, and HFM fluids. Type F fluids were made for Ford cars with bronze clutches but are not used in recent years since bronze clutches are not available anymore.
Probably the most common transmission fluid type in modern times is the Dexron III/Mercon, which is compatible with General Motors, Ford, and other cars. Similarly, HFM-style fluids are also a popular fluid option for most vehicles. To find the perfect match, read the instruction manual before buying any of these types.
2. Compatibility
Before you start looking at brands, make sure to check your car's make, model, year of build, and oil compatibilities. The wrong kind of oil will go to waste if it does not match the vehicle specifications, even if the fluid belongs to a good brand.
Some lubricants are universal, so they will match with just about any car. I think this is a pretty helpful type of transmission fluid because you can use the same product on different vehicles. This saves time on deciding which other option to buy for each car separately.
Reading the instruction manual for your car and the transmission fluid becomes crucial if you want to avoid wasting money on a product that's not compatible. Also, a mismatch can end up ruining your transmission, and the repairs might result in a hefty bill.
3. Additives
Internal car systems are prone to oxidation, rust formation, and even foaming. In transmissions, this results in a tight gear that takes effort to shift, and it could also be incredibly noisy when you drive the car. Anti-wear and anti-rust additives are used in most synthetic transmission oils, and they form an extra layer of protection over internal parts.
Personally, I think the difference is instantly noticeable, especially when you switch to a better fluid with antioxidants and exclusive ingredients. Transmission enhancers can maintain gear oil integrity for long which is why its viscosity remains the same even after miles of driving.
4. Price
There's a balance you've got to strike when it comes to buying a good product in your pre-decided budget. Just because a transmission fluid is expensive doesn't mean it's the right one for your car. Similarly, it's unwise to select the cheapest option from the shelves and make do with it.
Instead, a quick comparison of the rest of the factors with the price will help you discover oils that fall within your budget.
5. Location
Driving in moderate climates is pretty easy, but people living in frigid locations have to take extra precautions for the well-being of cars. Vehicles are prone to damage anyway when temperatures drop below zero, and transmission oil also needs to adjust to these freezing temperatures.
Similarly, vehicles in hotter regions have the danger of overheating, which can break down the fluids in the transmission. Make sure to buy a product that is resistant to extreme temperatures so that the vehicle runs properly regardless of the temperature it is exposed to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vehicles require a number of oils to keep them fresh and running, but the same oils cannot be used for every purpose. Motor oil (or engine oil) is used specifically in the engine to lubricate the parts, prevent corrosion, and increase fuel economy.
But transmission fluid is used only in the transmission box that allows one to change the gears while driving. This fluid is designed for maintaining the gears, and you cannot use it as a replacement for motor oil.
Changing transmission fluid depends on car usage - heavy mileage cars will require frequent oil changes to run without being noisy. I like to change the fluid every 20,000 miles, but on average, you can wait for 30,000 to 60,000 miles before changing transmission oil.
There is a simple way to check if the transmission needs a fresh change of oil. Start the car and keep it running for five minutes, then insert the dipstick to get an oil sample and wipe it on a cloth. Repeat the process on a fresh cloth and analyze the second sample of transmission fluid.
If the oil looks dark or smells burnt, it might be time to replace it with some fresh transmission fluid.
My Final Recommendation
Overall, the Valvoline multi-vehicle transmission fluid turned out to be the best of the lot. It was compatible with up to 90% of the vehicles, making it the most versatile option out of the top five in this list. The fluid also reduced incidences of rust and leaks, prevented corrosion, and offered protection against higher temperatures.Â
But if you can’t find this product, you can always go for Castrol Transmax DEX/MERC instead. Apart from Valvoline fluid, this was the only other option that felt well-rounded enough for most vehicles. I think you’ll surely like it if you own an older car or require high mileage.Â
And that’s all for my recommendations for the day. I hope you can find the best transmission fluid for MT82 after going through the buyer’s guide.Â
See you later!Â