The optimal method for safeguarding your automatic transmission system is employing the finest quality automatic transmission fluid. This implies that you must exercise caution while procuring a replacement fluid. Scores of products are available in the market, but not every product is specifically crafted for your vehicle’s make and model.
Transmission fluid is needed for a better fuel economy, smoother shifting, extended transmission life, reduced maintenance cost, and other benefits. You miss out on all these if you use an old or wrong product.
This review of the best automatic transmission fluids will help make the right decision. Read on for detailed information on the product to buy.
5 Best Automatic Transmission Fluids In 2022 Comparison Chart
| Level Of Oxidation Resistance | Viscosity | Degree Of Fluidity | Resistance To Heat | Anti-foaming | The Ability To Withstand Extreme Pressure | Action | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV (ATF) Full Synthetic | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Genuine Toyota Lexus ATF WS ATF World Standard | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | Check Price |
| ACDelco GM Full Synthetic ATF | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Genuine Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1 ATF | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | Check Price |
5 Best Automatic Transmission Fluids In 2022 Review
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic
I have Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) transmission fluid at the top of our list because of its versatility. Though it is automatic transmission fluid, one can use this fluid for many other vehicle brands and models sold worldwide.
When looking for transmission fluid, the first feature that should ring in your mind is the ability to extend your transmission’s lifespan. That is because replacing the entire transmission system is expensive. And not many car owners would like to go that path. With Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) transmission fluid, you are sure to get extra service life from the system.
This automatic transmission fluid is formulated with full-synthetic oils and long-life friction modifiers to improve the transmission’s efficiency. What’s more, it allows for smooth gear shifting, eliminates the possibility of slippages and shudder, prevents wear and tear in the torque converter, and improves drivability. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) transmission fluid is also manufactured with high-performance seal conditioners that enhance the elasticity of seal preventing leaks that usually occur at high mileage.
Valvoline is also developed with anti-wear technology to reduce friction between the moving metal parts of your transmission system. Additionally, it can offer a better oil flow, even at low temperatures, and film protection at high temperatures. Thus, you don’t have to worry about freezing or breakdown at extreme temperatures.
Pros
- Extends transmission life
- Compatible with various vehicle makes and models
- Reduces leaks even at high mileages
- Smoother gear shifting and ride
- Better thermal properties
Cons
- Pricey
- Not suitable for CVT and ATF+4 transmissions
Final verdict
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) full synthetic automatic transmission fluid is engineered to give your automatic transmission more service life. Buy this for smoother gear shifting and to eliminate slippages and shudder. It promises the best drivability compared to most automatic transmission fluids in the market.
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV (ATF) Full Synthetic
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV is a complete synthetic automatic transmission designed for old and new GM transmissions. It is formulated with base stocks and additive technology to meet the ever-changing requirements of an automatic transmission. This transmission fluid also offers improved anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power and torque transfer from the engine to the transmission system.
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV can also tolerate breakdown at high temperatures. It has the best base oils and advanced additives that improve oil flow in cold temperatures and better film protection at high temperatures. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about temperature fluctuations if you have this transmission fluid to protect your transmission system.
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV transmission fluid provides excellent oxidative stability under all conditions to give you smoother gear shifting.
Pros
- Excellent oxidative stability
- Improved shudder protection
- Immune to breakdown at high temperatures
- Anti-wear technology that improves the transmission’s durability
- Reduces sludge and build-up
Cons
- Not compatible with many brands
Final verdict
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV is designed for all GM cars and trucks that use DEXRON™-VI, DEXRON™-III and DEXRON™-II. This is one of the best replacement transmission fluids to buy for your GM vehicle for better performance and durability. It is also compatible with some imported vehicle makes, but please confirm with your manual before purchase.
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV (ATF) Full Synthetic
Read more: Best CVT Transmission Fluids For Automotive In 2022 [Review And Comparison]
Genuine Toyota Lexus WS ATF World Standard
As the name suggests, the Toyota Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid is specifically for use with transmissions fitted in Toyota Lexus only. Despite that, I am still confident in including it on our list of the best 5 automatic transmission fluids of 2022. This is the best fluid to confidently use if you own a Toyota Lexus. It, furthermore, offers protection to the rubber seals and metal finishes fitted in your transmission. In fact, it also can enhance the elasticity of the seals and improve their performance in leakage prevention.
Toyota Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed with special additives that prevent corrosion and wear and tear. Corrosion can constantly eat away vital parts of your transmission system. Wear also causes the same problem if the friction between the moving parts is significant. Over time, your transmission will fail and require replacement or expensive repairs. But you can have peace of mind knowing that Toyota Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid will be protecting your Toyota Lexus.
Pros
- Chemically-balanced
- Corrosion-resistant
- Smoother shifting even at extreme temperatures
Cons
- Specifically for Toyota Lexus
Final verdict
Transmission fluids can be expensive. Fortunately, Toyota Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid gives a more affordable option to keep your Toyota Lexus automatic transmission healthy and durable. You also get a smoother shifting at low temperatures.
Genuine Toyota Lexus WS ATF World Standard
Read more: Best Transmission Additives For Automotive In 2022 [Review And Buying Guide]
ACDelco GM Full Synthetic ATF
ACDelco Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid is an approved and registered GM product recommended for GM vehicle models from 2006 to the latest models. This product is backward compatible with DEXRON III ATF. In fact, it can be safely used as a replacement fluid for older transmissions.
ACDelco Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid offers improved friction resistance, foam control, oxidation resistance, and many more features. Those are the reasons why it sits on the fourth position on our best automatic transmission fluids list. Moreover, car owners can use it to extend their transmission life while giving them the best driving experience.
This transmission fluid has high-temperature stability so it doesn’t easily break down even at high temperatures. Also, you don’t have to worry about freezing in the winter or when you live in a temperate region. Additional features include high oxidation stability, sludge reduction, and build formation inhibition.
Pros
- Backward compatible
- Improved overall performance regarding viscosity stability, friction resistance, and oxidation resistance
- Prolongs transmission lifespan
- May improve fuel economy
- Extended drain interval
Cons
- Pricey
- Specific to GM vehicle models
Final verdict
ACDelco Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid is backward compatible with Dexron III. Buy it if you have any GM vehicle models from 2006 to the latest. It will keep your transmission healthy, give you more mileage per gallon, and extend the transmission service life.
ACDelco GM Full Synthetic ATF
Read more: What Transmission Fluid Do I Need?
Genuine Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1
The Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1 automatic transmission is best known for its longer service life. Apart from a smooth drive, it is also durable. If you use your dipstick to check for the transmission oil health status, you will be surprised by just how many times you still find Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1 fluid pink in your Honda car.
If you are using an old fluid or other brands in your Honda car, you must be noticing rough patches whenever you shift gears. That is why you should choose Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1 fluid for your vehicle.
Pros
- Smoother shifting
- Low oxidation rates – longer smooth ride
- Improved formulation that meets Honda quality
- Reduced fluid friction for better fuel economy
- In-house formulation to protect seals and O-rings
Cons
- Best suited for Honda models
- Some users report minimal changes
Final verdict
Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1 automatic transmission oil meets all standard requirements for Honda models. It, undoubtedly, gives you the best drivability and longer service life. Also, one can use this in other vehicle brands, but first, confirm with the vehicle manual.
Genuine Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1
Recommendation
You can protect your investment when you use an appropriate automatic fluid. But that is not all! You also get better performance and a smoother ride. So, which of the reviewed products is the best? Everything boils down to the vehicle brand you are driving. If you are looking for a more universal product, Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is the best choice. It can definitely give you the best transmission protection and enhanced performance in different driving conditions.
Other automatic transmission fluids reviewed in this post are model-specific, though some may still be compatible with other models. If you are in the market for new transmission fluid, check the compatibility and only go for the best or most recommended product.
