Dexron iii vs dexron vi. "2) DEXRON®III and DEXRON®VI fluids are no longer approved for use in Commercial OnHighway transmission products and have been removed from the Allison Approved NonTES 295 or NonTES 468 fluids list. Mineral based DexronIII would be well below a Dexron 6 after 30,000 miles, the actual overtake would be much sooner but in no time it could be down in the 5 cSt range. As @3Play stated dexron III will work fine but personally I don’t use it. DO NOT used Dexron VI in place of manual transmission fluid in any manual transmissions or transfer cases that specify Dexron III, as a failure may result. Navigating Dexron ATF Generations: Dexron II vs Dexron III vs Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is the lifeblood of automatic transmissions, ensuring smooth gear shifts, cooling, and protection of vital components. They may not even sell anything labeled dexron iii anymore as they don’t license it anymore if I remember. Not a suitable replacement for DEXRON III or DEXRON VI. Choosing the right Dexron III ATF is essential for ensuring smooth shifting, long transmission life, and reliable performance across a wide range of vehicles. It can also be used to top off dexron 3, however, you can't use dexron 3 if you already have dexron 6 originally in your trans, or if it has been flushed with dexron 6. Dexron VI often surfaces when discussing automatic transmission maintenance. are too much trouble). The T56 Service Manual states; Most T56 transmission models use Dexron II automatic transmission fluid. Out of curiosity, why is this? What will my options be as Dex 3 is phased out entirely? The performance requirements of the III allowed mineral oil to meet them, though many offerings such as the AMSOIL Torque Drive mentioned by N0DIH use a Group IV synthetic PAO basestock. What Is The Difference Between Mercon 5 and Dexron 3? Most of the time, the Mercon 5 and Dexron 3 are interchangeable, and many models accept both of them. It just can't be legally sold with the GM-licensed branding of "Dexron III" on the label. Dexron has been a renowned and trustable name for all the time in the industry. I based my 40% difference on the viscosity difference of the Dexron III vs Dexron VI as new out of the bottle for some aftermarket companies as I can't get the actual specs for Dex III and VI. Dexro VI has enhanced oxidation and improved wear protection. So it says something similar on the label and the fine print states it is "Dexron III compatible". Of course, these comparisons are being made between a conventional Dexron-III (H) and Dexron-VI. Successor of Dexron III (F) automatic transmission fluid. Dexron 3 Vs Dexron 6, in this differences you can clearly identified which Mobil is for what, even easily differentiate for table. The TM calls for Dexron VI in the transfer case (as well as transmission). Regarding this, a controversy pops up, “Dexron 3 vs. So, it must have differences and some extra benefits. My manual says to use Dextron II or III for Power Steering Fluid but from what I read Dextron VI replaced Dextron II or III Transmission Fluid and While newer fluids like Dexron VI offer enhanced performance, Dexron III is adequate for older vehicles not requiring advanced features. Transmission fluids have changed over the years and now the Dexron number may be up to VI. The dex III will shear to or below what the Dexron VI starts out life as, and the Dexron VI maintains its virgin viscosity for much much longer. Dexron VI offers enhanced lubrication and improved temperature performance compared to Dexron III, extending fluid life significantly. I suppose the rack's manual is trying to say Dexron can be used for topping off, while the jack's manual specifies MIL-H-5606 as a factory fill and for refilling. Not looking for suggestions on other brands (amsoil, redline, ect. Anyway, my local auto parts store sells Valvoline Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluids of the Dexron VI and ATF+4 varieties (both of which should satisfy my manual's requirements of an ATF+3 or Dexron III) So, my question is, what is the difference between these two different types of fluids (Dexron vs ATF+4)? The original DEXRON (B) transmission fluid was introduced on April 1, 1967. Is there really a difference or is the ps fluid just a markup dextron 3? Cheers. Dexron 6”. The license for Dexron III expired in 2006, and therefore, technically NO ONE is making a true Dexron III fluid anymore, only fluids that are compatible with the original Dexron III. Which one is better for the vehicle and which ingredients are applied to the fluids? This article provides you with all of the question answers. In conclusion, Dexron 4 is the better choice for most people, but Dexron 3 can still be used in some situations in terms of Dexron 3 vs 4. Get expert advice to keep your transmission running smoothly. How great are the benefits of using MIL-H-5606 over Dexron III? I'm going to assume the only benefits of using Dexron III would be cost and availability. The GM site says to STAY AWAY FROM DEX III, and only use DEXRON VI. The debate surrounding Dexron III vs. Actually, the biggest difference between Dex III and Dex VI is the viscosity. ” In other words, TES-668 is synthetic Dexron, like Dexron VI, but with a higher starting cSt of Dexron III… Hi gang, Its time again for my trans fluid change. I use Dexron VI mostly. any incarnation (GM or Pennzoil) of Dexron VI? Power steering fluid level low. But I've heard people say that GM actually backtracked on the use of Dex VI in transfer cases and actually still recommends Dex III. The replacement for Dexron IIE is Dexron III but Gm has let the patent expire and you should be able to find the III under different brand names. So, while talking about Dexron vs Mercon, we need to understand the basic function of both of these transmission fluids. Any advice on the pros/cons of Mobil 1 vs. . Probably would work OK though. Over the years, the original DEXRON (B) was supplanted by DEXRON-II (C), DEXRON-II (D), DEXRON-II (E), DEXRON-III (F), DEXRON-III (G), DEXRON-III (H), DEXRON-VI (J), DEXRON HP, DEXRON LV ATF HP, and DEXRON ULV, which is the latest fluid to date. With upgrades from time to time, Dexron has gained more credibility. What's the scoop? Dexron iII vs vI, If you need a top-notch transmission oil with a guarantee for high performance, you should go for Dexron VI. If fluid p/n 88861800 US (88861801 Canada) is not yet available when servicing a manual transmission or transfer case, Dexron III can be used in its place. Dexron III vs. Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum > Toyota 4Runner Forum > 3rd gen T4Rs > Dexron 3 vs Dexron 6 in Transmission DEXRON-VI can be used in any proportion in past model vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, in place of DEXRON-III (for instance, topping off the fluid in the event of a repair or fluid change). Dexron VI is often claimed as the proper fill yet Dexron VI didn't appear until 2005, which means this transmission was originally a factory fill with Dexron III. If you are confused and swaying your way between these two types, you are in the right place to eradicate your dilemma. For a few bucks more you can get Power Steering fluid that seems to be dextron 3. What do yall think? Archived post. The owners manual recomends ATF (for my 06 M6) that meets both Dexron III and Mercon H requirements. DEXRON II (E, F) DEXRON III (G, H) DEXRON VI Honda Z-1 MERCON MERCON LV MERCON SP Nissan Matic-J Toyota T-IV or Toyota WS Not for use in vehicles requiring Ford Type F fluid or Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVTs) Super Tech transmission fluid provides protection against wear and transmission shudder Resistant to thickening due to high C5 Tech - DextronIII vs Dextron VI - I've had conflicting answers on whether or not Dextron VI is suitable for the 99 C5 standard transmission. Feb 11, 2006 · Assuming it'll run fine on Dex III, keep in mind that the main difference between the two fluids is that the useful life of Dex III is half that of Dex VI. I went to my local Pontiac Dealer today to pick up 5 quarts of Dexron III to replace the The performance requirements of the III allowed mineral oil to meet them, though many offerings such as the AMSOIL Torque Drive mentioned by N0DIH use a Group IV synthetic PAO basestock. That being said, if you're going to go with T-IV I wouldn't substitute Dex III because of the extra additives. Durante las pruebas de estabilidad a la oxidación de GM, DEXRON ® -VI § superó a DEXRON ® -III § en cuanto a la resistencia oxidativa, ya que demostró su capacidad de proteger por más tiempo, reducir la formación de depósitos y proporcionar un funcionamiento constante en los cambios de velocidad. Though i plan to use dexron vi i am not sure its safe to use it when mixed with mercon. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Q8 Auto D Vl is also backwards compatible with all previous Dexron specified fluid applications. Dex VI is a much thinner ATF. Dexron III was released in 1993 from GMs transmission oil series and is part of the group 2+ base oils and additives that have improved friction stability, material compatibility, and high-temperature oxidation stability compared to Dexron 2. DEXRON-VI is also compatible with any former version of DEXRON for use in automatic transmissions. Wondering if you can use Dexron VI instead of Dexron III? Learn the key differences, compatibility, and whether Dexron VI is a suitable replacement for Dexron III in your vehicle. Have a power steering unit that specifies dextron 3. The ongoing discourse between Dexron VI and Dexron HP pervades the automotive community. Changing all the fluids in a new (to me) M1152A1. Because here is all that you need to know, without much effort of digging deeper. Can anyone advise Thank you What is the difference between Dexron And Mercon? The key difference is that Dexron is a GM formula, while Mercon is a Ford formula. T-IV is a slightly modified Dexron III for partial lock-up torque converters (I think, correct me if I'm wrong). Thats fine, and I'm ok with using something like Valvoline's Dex/Merc ATF (Blue bottle), but Valvoline also makes a "Maxlife" Dex/Merc (Red Bottle). Conclusion: If you are choosing between Dexron 3 and Dexron 6 you should look at all important factors such as similarities, maintenance, performance, and the specific needs of your car’s transmission. This guide highlights each product’s strengths, compatibility notes, and Valvoline Dex/Merc ATF is the automatic transmission fluid that has been uniquely engineered to meet and exceed the requirements automatic transmissions in vehicles that specify Dexron-III fluids. Dexron VI: Dexron VI has better low-temperature fluidity and extended life, but Dexron III is cost-effective for suitable models. Finding IIE or III may be difficult. 2006 was probably about the time they started phasing it in and getting rid of dexron iii. También se puede usar el Dexron III en Fords fabricados entre 1983 y 1996. I used to use maxlife and I concur it works great as @Aqua Puttana posted. Jan 23, 2023 · The Dexron 6 and Dexron 3 are both incredibly heat resistant and prevent friction that can damage your systems and if this is a huge consideration for you then both are great choices, however, the Dexron 6 does have more modern technology and advancements so you can expect better performance. Instead, it has certain specifications and applications defined by the automaker. Fluid is required to lubricate the inner components of automatic gearboxes. But VI is supposed to harm the seals on an Allison transmission. ¿Qué vehículos usan Dexron 3? Dexron III: fue desarrollado específicamente para vehículos GM anteriores a 2005, aunque hay muchos autos europeos que también lo usan. Last time was definitely Dexron III, but now i understand the fluid recommendation is "new" Dexron VI. I have personally used Dex VI in many Dex III spec'd transmissions and can say that every one of them shifted a lot better and the fluid has held up quite well in contrast to the Dex III. It meets the requirements of Volvo 97342, ZF Lifeguardfluid 5, 6 and 8, and GM Dexron VI, and exceeds the Aisin Warner JWS 3309 (T-IV) & JWS 3324 (WS), AW-1. Pretty much, the general rule is that if your transmission is coming from GM, regardless of what car it is in, you're likely safe by following GM's most recent recommendation, that being Dexron VI. Do I use ATF or power steering fluid? Dexron vi and mercon lv VS just dexron vi? So i plan on changing my transmission fluid and my car (2000 bonneville ssei) calls for dexron iii. The biggest improvement with Dexron-VI, IMO, will be shear stability. Dexron VI is backwards compatible, so you can use that. Q8 Auto D VI is recommended for 99% of all modern passenger car automatic transmissions. Dexron 3 Vs Dexron 6 Transmission Fluids Dexron-3 and Dexron-6 are two of the most well-known oil types and widely used across the globe. Dexron 6 is often considered over Dexron 3 due to its high compatibility with various transmission systems. Sometimes I use the Fuchs it just depends on my mood when I’m ordering. This has the same low temperature characteristics as Dexron IIE, but with modifications to anti-oxidancy and friction material. Also recommended for any other vehicle manufacturers that call for DEXRON ® -VI, Type III or II (E). I looked into this. Had no idea dexron III synthetic meets the spec Unless the info has been updated since this was posted, a footnote says Dex VI isn't on the list of non TES 295 fluids. Personally, in my vehicles which specify a Dexron III, I use a good Dexron III fluid like N0DIH mentioned vice taking the lower viscosity of the VI. Dexron VI is a lot more stable at higher temperatures and lasts longer. What’s the difference between DEXRON II and III? 2025 update: use DEXRON-VI service fill for GM automatics, plus HP/ULV info and key exceptions. Dexron® VI: Este aceite es de menos viscosidad que el Dexron III que reemplaza. Dexron 6 is much more shear stable and a total replacement for Dex3. Improved Friction Stability Jan 10, 2026 · Dexron VI is claimed to be backward compatible with Dexron III, but as zombiewolf says you can still buy fluid made to the Dexron III formula. " Since Dexron VI is not allowed to thin out (lower its viscosity) as much as Dexron III during use, it requires the use of higher-quality, more shear-stable (less prone to thinning while in use) formulations. I've read a few forums/threads saying that switching to the "new" Dexron VI caused harder shifting, but once they switched back to Dexron It's a bit thinner than the old Dexron III that the transmission was designed for, but not THAT much thinner and what the #@$%!- maybe it'd get me an extra . 2 mpg. Jun 10, 2022 · Discover the advantages of Dexron VI ATF over Dexron III. Dexron 3 Vs Dexron 6 is a common debate nowadays. Dexron 6 is a precise up-gradation of the older ones. On my car I am specifically warned to use Dexron III in the manual transmission and specifically warned not to use Dexron VI. The big three North American car manufacturers, GM, Ford, and Chrysler (now Stellantis) recommend the following: General Motors: Dexron VI LV ATF Chrysler/Stellantis: ATF +4 Ford: Mercon LV ATF Own a Ford or GM vehicle with a high-speed automatic transmission? GM recommends all previous transmissions (pre-2006) be serviced with Dexron-VI as a replacement where Dexron-III was used. Subscribed 24 13K views 6 years ago "Are Dexron III And Dexron VI Compatible? more Dexron VI is often claimed as the proper fill yet Dexron VI didn't appear until 2005, which means this transmission was originally a factory fill with Dexron III. This advanced Dexron full synthetic power steering fluid goes well with tighter inner tolerances and better shear, making it prevalent, even outweighing the Dexron ATF 3. Apr 19, 2025 · Mixing Dexron VI with Dexron III may dilute benefits and lead to performance issues, so it’s best to avoid it. Like Castrol has both dextron 3 and ps fluid. The following selections are well-regarded Dexron III or compatible fluids from trusted brands, useful for many GM, Ford, and other American-made transmissions. Un Dexron VI sintético empieza con menos viscosidad que un Dexron III mineral, pero resiste cizallamiento, para mantener la viscosidad necesaria. Both are formulated for automatic transmissions, yet their unique attributes differentiate them. Later, Dexron VI emerged, offering improved oxidation stability and shear stability. General Motors initially developed Dexron III as a standard for their automatic transmissions. The coefficient of friction is the same in Dexron 6 vs Dexron 3. Recommended for use in GM transmissions model year 2006 and newer calling for DEXRON ® -VI and replaces DEXRON III (H) and DEXRON II (E). l18m, 95jv, 91nti, rujxf, txafd, o5klss, 4wdci, f77m8, vzlmp, gcbvsz,