Does the Transmission and Differential take the same fluid on a Acura TSX?
I was wondering if the differential fluid in 2013 Acura TSX is separate from transmission fluid, or is it part of the same fluid system. In other words, if I get the transmission fluid replaced, will the differential fluid be replaced at the same time?
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hello, I would not recommend to use transmission fluid for the differential. Yes, Acura did use a transmission fluid for the rear differential originally called Z1 but a new fluid (DW1) was formulated and Z1 production ceased. However the fluid needed for your rear differential fluid exchange is DPSF. I suggest to use the DPSF fluid because that meets the new specifications of Acura. DW-1 has been used in differential exchanges before on your particular vehicle by some but that would not be my first choice. The DPSF fluid will not be as expensive if you order offline. A great website to do so is http://acura.bernardiparts.com/Acura-Automatic-Transmission-Fluid%20__ACURA-TRANSFLUID.aspx
There you can get all of your differential fluid for about $25.
There you can get all of your differential fluid for about $25.
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Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
Differential and transmission fluid are two different automotive fluids primarily because they serve two difference functions. One fluid is for vehicles with manual gearboxes and the other for automatic transmission vehicles.
Idemitsu ATF Type H-Plus is formulated specifically for use in Honda and Acura vehicles where Honda ATF Z-1 or DW-1 fluid is specified.
Acura Differential Fluid (VTM-4) was developed exclusively for the Acura MDX active torque rear differential. Provides the required co-efficient of friction for proper limited slip operation.
Yes. A transaxle is just a transmission for a front wheel drive car that has the differential built into it.
There are two types of differential fluid. One is mineral oil, which is a natural, crude oil-based fluid. The other is synthetic differential fluid, which is created in a lab. As with all synthetic oils, synthetic differential fluid oils can be fine-tuned for optimal performance.
The best way to determine which differential fluid is correct for your application is to reference your vehicles owner`s manual. Using the appendix, locate the section under fluids, transmission fluid, transfer case fluid, or lubrication.
Some transmission fluids are very incompatible with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids. Your car transmission needs the correct fluid, as specified by your car manufacturer, to run correctly and to the fullest length of life.
From the factory, the transmissions require two completely different transmission fluid formulations and/or specs. It would be best to put the bottle back. We don`t recommend using any fluid that says it can be used in a wide variety of transmission brands or types.
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. Mistakenly adding motor oil or brake fluid can also destroy your transmission. 7.
What is Axle Fluid? Every front or rear axle has oil called differential fluid or gear oil. Differential fluid is found in the axle housing to cool and lubricate the differential. It lubricates gear, clutch packs, bearings, and the ring and pinion gear that move power to the wheel axles from the driveshaft.
Unlike manual transmissions it is crucial for automatic transmissions to use the recommended automatic transmission fluid. It is not possible to use (automated) manual transmission fluid in an automatic transmission.
Will automatic transmission fluid work in a manual transmission? Yes – provided the original equipment manufacturer recommends it. It`s important to check your owner`s manual to make sure before dumping ATF in your manual transmission. In fact, some manuals may call for a gear lube or even a motor oil in older units.
Over time, the differential fluid gets dirty, breaks down, and needs to be replaced. So, it is necessary to have your differential serviced regularly. It is recommended to have the differential fluid changed every 40,000 to 60,000 miles.
75W90 GL-5 Gear Oil
The go-to gear oil for most differentials.
yes they can. i do it often, but i always do a 50/50 mix to be more accurate.
So, can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil? Yes. If it`s something you do only occasionally, mixing shouldn`t damage your engine.
Because the differential is at the rear and under the car, it gets none of the star treatment that the engine up front does. But if lubrication in the car differential fails, you won`t be getting very far for very long. Fortunately, you only need to change this oil every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
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.
Hello! Yes, you can add transmission fluid without changing it. However, it is important to keep in mind that adding new fluid to old fluid may not always be the best solution. Transmission fluid serves as a lubricant for the transmission`s moving parts, and it also helps to cool and clean the system.
Dexron VI replaced Dexron II and III, and can be used in General Motors domestically built or import transmissions that specified Dexron II or Dexron III. Dexron VI is a low viscosity transmission fluid and should also be used with the full synthetic low viscosity transmission fluid.
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 also compatible with any former version of DEXRON for use in automatic transmissions.
The easiest way to make sure you`re using the right type of ATF is to check the owner`s manual. It`ll tell you exactly which ATF the manufacturer recommended for your car. You may also find a recommendation on the dipstick. Either is a reasonable resource for determining the right type of fluid for your transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Types. Car and truck makers have different specifications for the ATF in their vehicles. Check your car or truck`s owner`s manual to see which type you need. In general, synthetic ATFs allow a car or truck to shift more easily and smoothly, which prolongs the life of the transmission.
Your differential will have better heat transfer, and the oxidization process will be slowed on the new fluid which increases the life of these valuable components.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Does the Transmission and Differential take the same fluid on a Acura TSX?
ANSWER : Hello, I would not recommend to use transmission fluid for the differential. Yes, Acura did use a transmission fluid for the rear differential originally called Z1 but a new fluid (DW1) was formulated and Z1 production ceased. However the fluid needed for your rear differential fluid exchange is DPSF. I suggest to use the DPSF fluid because that meets the new specifications of Acura. DW-1 has been used in differential exchanges before on your particular vehicle by some but that would not be my first choice. The DPSF fluid will not be as expensive if you order offline. A great website to do so is http://acura.bernardiparts.com/Acura-Automatic-Transmission-Fluid%20__ACURA-TRANSFLUID.aspx
There you can get all of your differential fluid for about $25.
There you can get all of your differential fluid for about $25.
There is automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission. Is it okay to leave or do I need manual transmission fluid?
ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.
New cars don’t have transmission fluid dipsticks Transmission fluid changing
ANSWER : That’s a very good question. The reason they have gone with no dipsticks is because they don’t want people messing with transmissions other there at the dealership. Some cars went through that a couple of decades ago. They make it a very involved, convoluted process all through, in order to change the fluid on these modern cars. They have special adapters you have to put. Some of them have to have scan computers in order to read the data and what’s in there, and then be able to change it. A lot of these companies claim that this new fluid is the "lifetime" fluid.
Most new use synthetic fluid can last a long time but any fluid is going to get dirty and wear out over time. I would change it at least every 80,000 – 100,000 miles but if you’ve got one that is really hard to change, you are better off hiring a mechanic to do it.
On some of the cars, it would be too hard for the do-it-yourself because of all that equipment you need. The professional mechanics already have that. Just call any good mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, and they will be able to perform a transmission fluid service for you.
Can I use alternative Transmission fluid to the quotes recommended fluid if i’m bringing my own parts?
ANSWER : I would recommend buying the correct fluid. The reason is because I want to make sure your car is taken care of and is running as long as possible. You wouldn’t want to put something foreign in your car that it may not accept unless you’re willing to accept risks. Different fluids have different chemicals in it. It may cost more right now, but you won’t have to spend money buying a new transmission or having one rebuilt.
My car is leaking transmission fluid – I can’t diagnose the leak
ANSWER : Based on the NHTSA database covering consumer complaints, as well as government mandated recalls and factory service bulletins, for your specific year, make and model, I do not see evidence of widespread complaints about transmission fluid leaks. Such leaks are, in fact, common in transmissions made by any car company, particularly if the transmission is older than say 10 years. There is a manual shaft seal, oil pan gasket, output shaft seals, case seals, torque converter seal (inaccessible) and so forth all of which are potential leak points on your transmission.
If you want to identify and resolve these leaks, certainly a certified Mechanic from YourMechanic could come out and perform a transmission leak inspection and let you know where the leak points are and what it will cost to resolve them.
1998 mercedes benz c280 transmission fluid leak from top
ANSWER : Hi there. Unfortunately, we are not able to receive pictures or video to pinpoint damage or identify parts for vehicles through this platform. The best way to identify this item is to search online for a detailed schematic of your C280 Mercedes-Benz or contact a local MB specialist mechanic or the dealership service department to determine the parts name and function. You might also want to have a MB specialist mechanic install and inspect your vehicle for further transmission fluid leaks to ensure the repairs are correctly completed.
Do I need to get the transfer case fluid and transmission fluid changed?
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I looked at your maintenance schedule for your vehicle and found that for up to 150,000 miles, it only says to inspect the fluid level and not change it. The fluids are special fluids and if you did need any work done (i.e. if there is a leak present or other mechanical problem) then make sure the correct Ford certified fluid is used.
When it is time for you to have your transmission fluid serviced, consider having a certified automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to perform the service for you.
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Can too much transmission fluid cause speedometer malfunctions?
ANSWER : Hi there. In most cases when you overfill the transmission fluid it can cause excessive foaming of the fluid or possible internal component failure due to excessive pressure inside the hydraulic lines. Sensors like the speed sensors however are rarely impacted by this situation. However, in regards to the possibility of probability of this; I would say perhaps a 10% chance.
