Is it OK to mix synthetic transmission fluid with regular?

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Is it OK to mix synthetic ATF with a conventional and/or synthetic blend ATF? Yes. Synthetic ATF and conventional fluids are 100 percent compatible with each other.



Also know, can you mix different transmission fluids?

Some transmission fluids are very incompatible with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids. While it's not uncommon for someone to mix up which fluids should go in their car, putting the wrong transmission fluid in your car could be your vehicles fast pass to an early grave.

One may also ask, what happens if you use the wrong automatic transmission fluid? Automatic transmissions must only use the fluid specified by the automaker, such as General Motors' Dexron series or Toyota's Type T. Using the wrong fluid can cause poor lubrication, overheating, and possibly transmission failure. A mechanic might not be able to reverse the damage, even by flushing the transmission.

Similarly one may ask, is Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid better?

The cooler operating temperatures offered by synthetic ATFs can make a big difference to component longevity. The best automatic transmission fluids usually claim to improve vehicle fuel mileage, but renewing the fluid will almost always do that. (Here are some other ways to improve your miles per gallon.)

What transmission fluid is compatible with Mercon V?

For your 2002 Ford application, we recommend the use of our Valvoline MaxLife Dex/Merc ATF product to meet the Mercon V specifications recommended by your manufacturer. This product is 100% compatible for mixture or replacement in your vehicle and will not void any new car warranties.

39 Related Question Answers Found

Is it OK to mix synthetic fluid with regular transmission fluid?

Is it OK to mix synthetic ATF with a conventional and/or synthetic blend ATF? Yes. Synthetic ATF and conventional fluids are 100 percent compatible with each other.

Is ATF 4 the same as dexron 3?

Moreover, this Valvoline ATF is essentially a version of the old Dexron III and Mercon ATFs. Since 1998, Chrysler has been using a synthetic ATF, either ATF+4 or ATF+5, which Chrysler specifically says is not compatible with either Dexron or Mercon.

Can the transmission be damaged by changing the transmission fluid?

While changing your transmission fluid won't damage the condition of your transmission, if you haven't been changing it frequently enough, you may discover that your transmission slips.

How long can a car run without transmission fluid?


It's recommended that you replace the transmission fluid anywhere from 50,00 to 100,000 miles, but sometimes a higher-quality transmission fluid can last up to 150,000 miles. If you wait too long to change the transmission fluid, you'll likely encounter issues such as transmission failure and trouble shifting gears.

Does transmission fluid brand matter?

You would normally see that on the back label. For instance, it might say "can be used in place of Mercon V, Mercon, Dexron, etc. Type of ATF absolutely does matter.a lot! Brand doesn't matter much but type sure does especially when mixing with existing ATF.

How do you know when to change your transmission fluid?

If you hear grinding or squealing, pull over as soon as possible and check your transmission oil or fluid level while the engine is still running. When you do, also note the color of the fluid. If it is anything other than bright red, you may need a transmission fluid change.

What is the difference between ATF and ATF 4?

ATF +4 is a synthetic fluid for finely-tuned transmissions, so if you use a non-synthetic ATF instead of ATF +4 in a car or truck that calls for it, you could damage the transmission. You may use ATF +4 in most applications that call for older Dexron and Mercon fluids.

Is it bad to change transmission fluid on high mileage?

Changing the transmission fluid on a high-mileage car is risky. Don't do it unless your transmission is running fine and the fluid is first-rate, because it can make transmission failure imminent.

Is all ATF 4 full synthetic?


The use of “synthetic” in ATF+4® is not a definitive “yes” or “no” question. The important factor is not so much how companies choose to use the term “synthetic” to market their lubricants, rather it is that ATF+4® has been formulated to meet the exact requirements of FCA (formerly known as Chrysler) transmissions.

What can I use instead of ATF 4?

If you do not plan to use licensed ATF+4 for whatever reason, at the minimum, use a high quality substitute such as Mobil 1 Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF or Amsoil ATF.

What is the best dexron 3 transmission fluid?

Dexron 3
  • Valvoline DEXRON/MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid - 1gal (773636)
  • Triax Synthetic Blend Multi-Purpose ATF -Dexron III/Mercon/Allison with SureShift Technology Compatible with TES 389, GM, Ford, Chrysler.
  • Toyota Genuine Fluid 00718ATF00 Dexron III Transmission Fluid - 1 Quart.

What is dexron 2 transmission fluid?

DEXRON is the trade name for a group of technical specifications of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) created by General Motors (GM). Originally the DEXRON name was associated exclusively with automatic transmission fluids, later GM released DEXRON gear oils and other lubricants under the DEXRON brand.

What does Dex Merc mean?

Valvoline DEX/MERC ATF is a high-quality transmission fluid formulated to meet the challenging demands many automatic transmissions. Its responsive low-temperature fluidity is beneficial in both electronic and hydraulic controlled transmissions and transaxles.

How long does synthetic ATF last?


This new generation fluids that last a lifetime are the synthetic ATFs which do not need to be changed. They are however only installed and used in new vehicles. However, the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association recommends changing the fluid every two years or every 50,000 km.

Is all dexron VI synthetic?

DESCRIPTION: ACDelco DEXRON-VI ATF is a high performance, synthetic blend formulation that meets or exceeds the stringent requirements of GM's DEXRON-VI specification and provides warranty protection for current GM vehicles. It also provides improved performance in older GM vehicles, wherever DEXRON is specified.

How do u flush transmission fluid?

Disconnect the hose that returns the transmission fluid from the cooler and place the end into a bucket full of fresh transmission fluid. Start the car and run the transmission back and forth through the gears a few times until the fluid coming out of the transmission looks clean or you are nearly out of fresh fluid.