The best automatic transmission oil depends on the following factors:
Gearbox type
*Aisin
*ZF
*GM
* Jatco
Type of fluid required by the transmission
* ATF (automatic transmission fluid)
* CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid)
* DCTF (Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid)
Manufacturer’s recommendation
*Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual.
Viscosity Recommendations
*Lower viscosity for colder climates
*Higher viscosity for hotter climates
Oil base
* Synthetic: more expensive, but provides better protection in extreme conditions.
* Semi-synthetic: balance of price and performance.
* Mineral: cheapest, but only suitable for older gearboxes.
Brands
*Valvoline
* Mobil 1
*Castrol
* Amsoil
* Red Line
Recommended oils for automatic transmissions:
Aisin
* Valvoline MaxLife ATF
* Castrol Transmax Import Multi-Vehicle ATF
ZF
* ZF LifeguardFluid 8
* Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF
GM
* Dexron VI
* ACDelco DEXRON-VI ATF
Jatco
*Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2
* Valvoline SynPower CVT
Regular Maintenance
* Regular transmission fluid maintenance and changes are important to extend the life of the transmission.
*Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended service intervals.