Transmission Fluid You Use?

[maroonmetallic97]

Hey guys, just curious as to what your preferred brand and type of fluid you use when the time comes for a fluid swap?

Are the more expensive brands worth it?



p.s. Try not to flame guys, everyone has their own opinions...

 

[akmac]

I just go with supertech DexVI from Wally World. Since DexVI fluids are all still regulated by GM, they all have to meet their specs. I know some don't like DexVI, but GM recommends it for all transmissions that originally spec'd DexIII. I'm willing to take their word for it.

 

[maroonmetallic97]

Akmac, I'm assuming you swapped your fluid with DexVI.

Any difference in shifting or rpm at speed?

Brand?

 

[Toby Hanson]

When I did my fluid & filter change a couple months back I used the off-brand Dexron II-replacement that AutoZone recommended. The transmission is just as smooth as ever.

 

[akmac]

The shifting is slightly smoother, almost too smooth. But then again, I need a rebuild because I have no TCC lockup. Because of that mine runs at about 2300rpm @ 70mph. It was Walmart's SuperTech brand.

 

[maroonmetallic97]

To be honest I've always used the Advanced Auto Dex III. Never had a problem.

Just got to wondering if there was any benefit to using the more expensive name brands. That's the only way I could justify spending 5-20(!) dollars per quart more.

 

[Hawk]

In the GM's that I own I have 2 fluids I use:

Chrysler ATF type F full synth (for my 4x4)

GM Dex VI full synth (for the cars)

(valvoline makes these also, and a few times I tried theirs over going dealer labeled and saw no difference)

But I would say go with the brand you have had the most luck with. Newer doesn't always mean better.

 

[Merkava_4]

I'm using Walmart brand right now as so far no problems.

 

[dondeere]

I use whatever it came with because I never changed it. Purchased new a 1997 Buick LeSabre Limited. Almost 200,000 miles on it. What a great car. I recommend to keep your money in your pocket. Don't worry!

 

[maroonmetallic97]

I'm not looking for info on how or when to replace it. I know both of those things.

I'm looking to see if anyone has seen any gains from using more expensive fluid.

 

[djprice_69]

My first pan drop earlier this week with a filter change went just fine with Advanced Auto Dex III. I would imagine cleaning the grime off of the magnet, bottom of the pan & a new filter will do more than a flush using the more expensive stuff. Just my two cents!

 

[maroonmetallic97]

I had to go through my trans several times at just 89k. Someone really didn't care about it. That includes dropping the pan and cleaning the magnet. Swapped the filter too.
Now it goes smooth down the road. No "chuggle" or mis-shifts.

I was hoping someone could tell me if it was worth it to spend up to 15 dollars more than the generic fluid.