Through the stand, the cold and glass flasks: a comparative test of power steering fluids. Power steering fluid Dexron III or ATF which is better to pour Atf ws can it be poured into the power steering

Stable, long and effective work Hydraulic power steering of the car is guaranteed timely replacement power steering fluids and compliance with operating rules. The compositions existing today differ from each other not only in color, but also in their main characteristics: viscosity, density, composition and other hydraulic indicators.

The following types of fluids can be filled into the power steering:

  • classic ATF, which is used in automatic transmissions;
  • an analogue of PSF-3 and ATP - Dexron liquid, which differs in a set of additives;
  • Multi HF;
  • liquid PSF-3.

Hydraulic fluid ratings usually do not consider formulations from automakers, since each of them creates original oil for a specific car model. The comparison is mainly made with universal analogues of PSF-3, suitable for most vehicles.

Motul Multi HF Fluid

High-tech multifunctional synthetic liquid of an unusual green hue. It was created specifically for cars of the latest generations, which are equipped with power steering, hydraulic drives and hydraulic shock absorbers. Power steering fluid Multi HF reduces the noise emitted by systems when low temperatures. It has anti-foam, anti-wear and anti-corrosion properties.

It is often classified as an analogue of PSF-3, since it can be used for shock absorbers, power steering and other hydraulic drives.

Advantages

The following are distinguished:

  1. Has approvals for almost all car brands.
  2. Can be mixed with similar oils.
  3. Created specifically for high-load operation in hydraulic pumps.

Flaws

Users cite the price as the main drawback. Too much high price- from 1000 rubles and above.

Pentosin CHF 11s

High quality, one of the analogues of PSF-3, widely used by many automakers. It can be poured into both the hydraulic booster and air suspension, shock absorbers and other car systems that require this type of fluid to operate. Can be used in extreme conditions, maintains its temperature-viscosity balance in the temperature range from -40 to +130 ˚С. The disadvantage of the analog power steering fluid PSF-3 is its high cost. A distinctive feature is high turnover and a large list of approvals from automakers.

Pentosin, an analogue of power steering fluid PSF-3, is used by German automakers. It can be used in any car except Japanese ones.

Advantages

The following are distinguished:

  • highly inert liquid, can be mixed with ATF, but is most effective when used in its pure form;
  • resistant to low temperatures;
  • can be used on cars of both domestic and foreign production;
  • Compatible with different types of seals.

Flaws

These are called:

  • the cost is too high - from 800 rubles and above;
  • maintains a stable state of the system, including the pump, but does not eliminate noise during operation.

Comma PSF MVCHF

Semi-synthetic hydraulic fluid for central power steering and is often used in air conditioners and stabilization systems directional stability, roof hydraulic systems. The same color as PSF-3 and similar multi-liquids - green. Can be mixed with CHF11S, Dexron and CHF202 specifications.

Has domestic and foreign approvals automobile concerns, using in vehicles appropriate liquids. Experts recommend using Comma PSF in European brands of cars - both cars and trucks.

Withstands low temperatures: manufacturer says temperature Range down to -54 ˚С, however, car owners note that operation at -25 ˚С does not worsen its characteristics.

Advantages

There are these:

  • the liquid has all the approvals European brands cars;
  • does not lose its characteristics at low temperatures;
  • high quality coupled with an affordable price - about 600 rubles per liter;
  • has dexron specification.

Flaws

Unlike other PSF-3 formulations, this liquid cannot be mixed with similar ATF fluids and other means for power steering.

Ravenol Hydraulik PSF Fluid

German hydraulic fluid synthetic type. Unlike the same Multi or PSF-3, which are characterized by a green color, Ravenol has an uncharacteristic red tint. It is characterized by high resistance to oxidation and a high viscosity index. The fluid is based on a hydrocracked base oil, to which additives, inhibitors and polyalphaolefins are added. Mainly used for power steering modern cars all types of transmission. The manufacturer claims thermal stability and preservation of characteristics at temperatures down to -40 ˚С.

This is suitable for Japanese and Korean cars.

Advantages

The following are distinguished:

  • neutral towards non-ferrous metals and rubber seals;
  • protects parts under any extreme conditions due to the formation of an oil film on their surface;
  • affordable price - from 500 rubles per liter.

Flaws

The approval list consists mainly of Japanese and Korean automakers only.

Liqui Moly Zentralhydraulik-Oil

Synthetic hydraulic oil green in color with the addition of zinc-free additives. Liquid German made, ensuring the operation of various hydraulic systems: hydropneumatic suspension, power steering, shock absorbers, active engine damping support system. It does not have approvals from major Korean and Japanese automakers and is not used by all European automakers, despite the possibility of multi-purpose use.

The liquid can be poured into systems designed for classic ATF and PSF-4 oils. It is most effective in its pure, undiluted form.

A high-quality liquid analogue of PSF-3 for Hyundai and many other car brands does not lose its characteristics at low temperatures and under extreme operating conditions. The disadvantage is that the cost is too high, which makes the liquid virtually inaccessible.

Advantages

The following are distinguished:

Flaws

Consider the following:

  • has a considerable price - 1000 rubles per liter;
  • a small number of recommendations and approvals for use in various brands cars.

Motul Dexron III

Transmission fluid of a semi-synthetic type, created as a result of technosynthesis. It has an unusual red color for such compounds and is used in systems that require Mercon and Dexron fluids: transmissions, power steering. Motul Dexron maintains fluidity at low temperatures and maintains a stable oil film at high temperatures Oh. Can be used in the same systems and conditions as Dexron II D, PSF-4, Dexron III, Dexron II E.

Advantages

The following are distinguished:

  • retains its properties and characteristics over a wide temperature range;
  • affordable price - from 550 rubles;
  • can be used in power steering different classes Dexron.

Febi 32600 Dexron VI

Fluid used in demanding steering columns and automatic transmissions, which are operated using Dexron 6 class compounds. Can be used in any systems and mechanisms as a replacement for Dexron II and Dexron III. The composition is made in Germany, made from high-quality additives and base oils. ATF Dexron is considered one of the most best analogues PSF-3 composition for Hyundai and other car brands, since it has a suitable viscosity level.

Advantages:

Let's consider these:

  • can be used as a replacement for Dexron transmission fluids of lower classes;
  • affordable price - from 450 rubles per liter;
  • for universal ATF intended for power steering and gearboxes, it has good viscosity.

Flaws

Only one can be selected. It has approvals only from European and American automakers.

Liquid Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus

Universal gear oil. Intended for use in rotation converters, automatic transmissions, hydraulic clutches and power steering. Differs in red color. The composition includes synthetic components and additives that improve friction properties at the time of gear shifting and ensure chemical and antioxidant stability and preservation of the properties and characteristics of the composition at low temperatures. It has good air-displacing and anti-foaming properties. The liquid is produced in Germany, is absolutely neutral to sealing materials, but can provoke corrosion of parts made of copper and its alloys.

Advantages

You can consider the following:

  • maintaining the viscosity of the composition under the influence of different temperatures;
  • affordable price - from 450 rubles.

Flaws

Causes corrosion of copper alloys.

Castrol Dexron VI

Red transmission fluid designed for automatic transmissions. Mainly used in modern models automatic transmission with maximum level fuel economy, low viscosity. Country of origin: Germany. Manufactured from high-quality base oils with the addition of special additives. Meets the requirements of such automakers as GM and Ford, and is approved by the Japanese standard JASO 1A.

Castrol Dexron VI is often recommended by experts as a worthy and quality replacement original ATF Dexron for Korean or Japanese cars.

Advantages

Let's highlight the following:

  • affordable price - from 600 rubles;
  • has approvals and meets the specifications of most global automakers;
  • The composition includes a package of additives that protects copper alloys from corrosion.

Flaws

It is unknown how the fluid behaves when used in hydraulic power steering or hydraulic transmissions.

Eneos Dexron ATF III

Transmission oil with a wide range of applications, used in power steering, automatic transmissions, Step-tronic and Tip-tronic. Keeps the vehicle's transmission clean and in good working order for more than 50 thousand kilometers due to its high thermal-oxidative stability. It has a red-crimson hue and contains anti-foaming additives that give the composition air-displacing properties. Meets the requirements of the GM concern. On sale you can find both liter and four-liter containers with the composition. Manufacturer: Japan and Korea. Retains its properties at temperatures down to -46 °C.

Included in the TOP 5 best analogues of PSF and ATF fluids for power steering.

Advantages

Let's highlight the following:

  • reasonable cost - from 400 rubles per liter;
  • has better lubricating properties;
  • retains properties and characteristics at negative temperatures.

Flaws

Aggressive impact on parts made of copper alloys.

In one of our recent articles, we talked in detail about manual and automatic transmissions. Today we will tell you about one of them, which is recommended to be used as a lubricant not only for gearboxes, but also all-wheel drive transmissions, power steering. We are talking about service Dexron fluids(Dextron or Dexron).

What is Dexron

Speaking about transmission fluids, it should be noted that some automobile manufacturers developed their own tolerances and standards for these oils, which subsequently became generally accepted characteristics for companies specializing in the production technical fluids for cars. These include the General Motors concern, which back in 1968 released the first transmission fluid for automatic transmissions ATF transmission(Automatic Transmission Fluid) of their cars. The company's marketers gave this product the name Dexron, which became a registered trademark for the group technical specifications transmission fluids for automatic transmissions. Underneath it, General Motors and other manufacturers of technical fluids still produce transmission oils for automatic transmissions.

The original Dextron fluid has been produced since 1968, but four years later General Motors was forced to stop producing it. There were two reasons: weak technical properties and... protest of environmentalists. The fact is that in the composition of Dextron-B, the manufacturing company used oil from whale sperm, which served as a friction modifier (friction modifier). Since whales are considered an endangered species of wild animals, the Endangered Species Act was passed in the United States in 1973, according to which it was prohibited to use any substances of rare species of flora and fauna in the production of industrial and food products.

The second reason is purely technical. Whale oil did not withstand the high temperatures that developed in automatic transmissions produced in the 1970s and lost its essential properties as a friction modifier. Therefore, the management of General Motors decided to develop a different formula for Dextron, without whale oil.

So in 1972, a new transmission fluid, Dexron II C, appeared on the market, which contained jojoba oil as a friction modifier. But this product also turned out to be imperfect: its components caused corrosion of GM automatic transmission cooler parts. To avoid this, corrosion inhibitors were added to the fluid - additives that suppress the appearance of rust on automatic transmission parts and components. Dextron with such additives was called IID, and it entered the market in 1975. As with its predecessor, Dexron IID was far from perfect: the corrosion inhibitor added to its composition provoked hygroscopicity transmission fluid– it actively absorbed water vapor from the air and quite quickly lost its working properties. This is why Dextron IID is no longer used in vehicles with hydraulic systems.

A further evolution of Dextron was the liquid labeled IIE, produced from the late 1980s to 1993. The manufacturer added new chemical additives to its composition, which made it possible to avoid the excessive hygroscopicity of Dextron. The differences between Dexron IID and Dexron IIE are their basis: the first is mineral, and the second is synthetic. Due to its synthetic “base”, Dextron IIE has the best performance characteristics– maintains optimal viscosity at low temperatures and has an extended service life.

The year 1993 was marked by the appearance of a new product on the gear oil market - Dexron III.

It was latest development General Motors, which differed from its predecessor in its improved friction properties and viscosity (at low temperatures it better retained fluidity and the ability to lubricate gearbox components). That is why this ATF is recommended for use in countries where winter temperatures drop below 30 degrees Celsius. This fluid is now used by many automakers when refueling automatic transmissions of their models. The advantage of this transmission fluid is its ability to optimally interact with oils that were previously developed by GM - the same Dextron IID, IIE, IIC and even Dextron-B, and replace them.

In 2005, General Motors introduced a new generation of transmission fluid Dextron - VI, which was specially developed for use in the new six-speed automatic transmission Hydra-Matic 6L80.

The interaction mechanism in this checkpoint has been changed gear ratios, in which the surfaces of the clutch units mated directly, without an “intermediary” in the form of a rubber buffer. This made it possible to reduce torque losses when transmitting it to the drive axle and to avoid failures when moving from stage to stage. To optimally perform these functions, a transmission fluid was required that had low viscosity, improved lubricating properties, and high resistance to foaming and corrosion. This was the working fluid Dextron VI.

The concern completely switched to this fluid for automatic transmissions of its cars at the end of 2006, although many manufacturers technical oils the third Dextron is still being produced, as well as Dextron IID and IIE. GM itself no longer regulates or confirms the quality of operating fluids produced under this standard.

The difference between the “sixth” Dextron and the “third” was its lower kinematic viscosity - a maximum of 6.5 centistokes at a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius, while for Dextron III at the same temperature it is 7.5 centistokes. Reduced degree kinematic viscosity allows the transmission fluid to reduce friction losses, which leads to increased fuel efficiency. Also, this transmission fluid has an extended service life, which is why it was given the term “non-replaceable”. This is incorrect, since Dextron VI is also prone to aging, but it needs to be replaced less often than the same Dextron III (on average, 7-8 years after the start of the car’s operation). A list of all General Motors licensed manufacturers of Dextron VI transmission fluid can be found.

Where is Dexron used?

Transmission fluids currently produced under the Dexron label are found wide application in lubrication systems various nodes and car mechanisms. If in the first half of the twentieth century Dextron was mainly used as a working fluid for automatic transmissions, today the range of its applications has expanded.

DEXRON Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)– in automatic transmissions of cars manufactured after 2006. Contains a wide list of components: viscosity modifiers, anti-foam, anti-corrosion, antioxidant and other additives, surfactants that clean and protect metal surfaces. Currently, two types of such liquid are produced: standard and HP (high performance). The latter is used in automatic transmission lubrication systems of cars operating in extreme conditions.

Depending on what climatic conditions When operating vehicles with automatic transmissions that use Dextron as a transmission fluid, General Motors recommends using the following ATF:

  • Dextron IID - in countries where the winter air temperature does not drop below -15 degrees Celsius
  • Dextron IIE - in countries where the air temperature in winter does not fall below -30 degrees Celsius
  • Dextron III - in countries where winter temperatures do not drop below -40 degrees Celsius.
  • Dextron VI – in countries where winter time the air temperature drops below -40 degrees Celsius.

Is it possible to mix Dextrons with different compositions?

This is one of the most interesting questions for car enthusiasts when it comes to replacing outdated transmission fluid. The original manufacturer of Dextron, General Motors, has issued the following recommendations for mixing and interchangeability. It is possible to mix, that is, add “oil” with other technical characteristics to the existing volume of transmission fluid only within the limits specified by the gearbox manufacturer. For example, mixing mineral Dextron IID with synthetic Dextron IIE can cause chemical reaction, which will lead to the precipitation of substances (especially additives) that can worsen the performance characteristics of the fluid and harm the components and mechanisms of the gearbox. But mineral Dextron IID can be mixed with mineral Dextron III, but with an eye on what additives the manufacturer uses in these liquids. After all, if the bases of such ATFs do not conflict, then the additives may react, which will lead to a deterioration in the performance characteristics of the gearbox.

Another thing is with the mutual replacement of Dextron transmission fluids: here the manufacturer’s recommendations are clearer.

  • Dexron IID can be replaced by Dexron IIE in any type of transmission, as the effectiveness of their friction modifiers is identical. But the reverse replacement of the “transmission” Dextron IIE with Dextron IID is not recommended.
  • Dexron III can be poured into vehicle transmissions that have already used Dexron II transmission fluid. But only if the amount of friction-reducing modifiers in the original fluid was less than that of new fluid. Reverse replacement, that is, a “second” Dextron instead of a “third”, subject to the specified conditions, is prohibited.
  • If the gearbox equipment does not provide for a reduction in the friction coefficient, provided that the manufacturer has increased the efficiency of the modifiers, then Dextron II is not replaced with Dextron III.

Operating conditions for Dextron transmission fluids

Whatever tolerances the manufacturers of transmission fluids give, we advise you to listen to the recommendations of engineers from General Motors and companies that produce automatic transmissions. The most important recommendation that you should focus on is the “transmission” type marking on oil dipstick Automatic transmission. If it says Dexron III, then feel free to fill the system with the third Dextron and only it. Why? Yes, because no one guarantees you adequate operation of the gearbox when switching from the recommended fluid to another. If you pour non-recommended transmission fluid into an automatic transmission, dire consequences can occur. Let's name the most common ones:

  • the transition from stage to stage may take longer due to slipping of the clutch discs. This is due to parameters different from those recommended by the manufacturer (low or high friction properties of the newly filled ATF). An increase in gear shift time, the so-called “dips”, threatens increased consumption fuel;
  • violation of the smoothness of gear shifting. Occurs due to an increase in the time it takes for the operating pressure of the transmission fluid to build up. Here, too, the problem is in the frictional properties of Dextrons of different compositions. It can lead to failure of the friction discs, and, as a result, to repair of the automatic transmission.

Hydraulic power steering is designed to make more easy control, as well as dampen vibrations and shocks that occur on steering wheel. In order for it to last a long time and work stably, it is necessary to regularly change the oil in it and monitor its quality. The article discusses Dextron oils, including Dextron 3 for power steering, and gives their description, advantages and disadvantages.

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Description of the liquid

The power steering design consists of several mechanisms, which are visible in the diagram.

The entire mechanism is washed by a special hydraulic fluid (PSF).

It has the following functions:

  • transmits pressure from the pump to the piston;
  • has a lubricating effect;
  • has anti-corrosion properties;
  • cools the components and mechanisms of the unit.

Which circulates in a closed circuit, the created pressure is transmitted from the pump to other components of the unit. When created high pressure in the pump, PSF enters the low pressure zone where the SGC pistons are located. The cylinder is connected to the steering wheel rack using a spool. Depending on the position of the steering wheel, the spool directs oil, making it easier to turn the steering wheel.

An important function of PSF is to remove excess heat from mechanisms. In addition, acting as a lubricant, it reduces friction between moving components. Anti-corrosion additives in the composition prevent rust from forming inside the mechanism.

Compound

PSFs are divided into three types:

  • mineral;
  • semi-synthetic;
  • synthetic.

Mineral ones contain 97% naphthenes and paraffins, the rest are additives that impart certain properties. Semi-synthetics contain both mineral and synthetic components. They have a longer service life and better performance. Synthetic PSF contains polyesters, hydrocracked petroleum fractions, and polyhydric alcohols. In addition, they contain additives that improve its properties.

PSF contains the following additives:

  • to reduce friction between parts;
  • against corrosion processes;
  • viscosity stabilizing;
  • acidity stabilizing;
  • giving color;
  • preventing foaming;
  • to protect rubber parts.

When choosing power steering oil, you should pay attention to the composition and specifications(video author - Vladislav Chikov).

Advantages and disadvantages

Each type of working fluid has its own advantages and disadvantages:

Type PSFAdvantagesFlaws
Mineral
  • low price;
  • safety of rubber parts.
  • low resistance to foaming;
  • increased viscosity;
  • short service life.
Semi-synthetic
  • higher resistance to corrosion processes;
  • average price;
  • service life is longer than that of mineral analogues;
  • good lubricating properties;
  • improved foam resistance.
  • aggressive effect on rubber parts.
Synthetic
  • ability to work at large temperature differences;
  • high resistance to foam formation, corrosion and oxidation processes;
  • high lubricating properties;
  • low degree of viscosity;
  • long service life.
  • incompatibility with liquids;
  • aggressive effect on rubber parts of parts;
  • high price;
  • limited use.

Interchangeability and miscibility

The manufacturer introduced the qualification of power steering fluids by color by adding coloring pigments to their composition: red, yellow and green. Red power steering oils are developed according to the concern's standards General Motors, they are called Dextrons.

Today, the most commonly used are Dextron 3 and Dextron 4. The parent company does not produce Dextron 3; other companies produce it under license. The second type of Dextron is produced both by the parent company and by licensed manufacturers.


Releases yellow oils Daimler concern. They are mainly used in Mercedes. Under license Daimler Yellow PSF is also produced by third parties.

Green liquids are released German concern Pentosin. They are popular with Peugeot, VAG, Citroen and other models.


You cannot mix hydraulic fluids that have different chemical compositions: mineral water, semi-synthetic and synthetic.

It is possible to mix liquids of the same color only if they have a similar chemical composition. You can mix PSF in 2 colors: red and yellow. Green power steering oil should not be mixed with red or yellow, as they have different chemical bases. Therefore, only green liquids can be mixed with each other.

Price issue

The price of hydraulic steering fluids varies greatly. Original products always costs more.

Video “Power steering oil”

This video gives an overview of the PSF Dextron III (the author of the video is Nik86 auto-construction).

Transmissions with automatic gear shifting (automatic transmissions) use a mixture (fluid), which is popularly called ATF fluid. For decades, GM General Motors has been developing quality standards in the field of automatic transmission oils.

Most of the world's manufacturers ATF oils and automatic transmissions are guided by General Motors fluid quality specifications. Since the eighties, GM's current standard has been Dextron IID, which was later updated to Dexron IIE. And already in 1993, the standardization of Dextron No. 3 entered the market.

The differences between Dexron IIE and Dexron IID are minor. However, the new generation of Dextron number 3 standards differs significantly from its predecessors. The fractional characteristics of the third generation mixture have significantly improved, the manifestation of which affects all operating modes of the automatic transmission.

All generations of Dextron specifications are considered interchangeable. However, it is possible to update the gear oil only to a new generation; the opposite actions will worsen the performance of the additives that are added to Dexron 3 mixtures.

You should not replace Dexron 2 with Dexron 3 in cases where the manufacturer of the corresponding transmission does not declare an increase in efficiency when moving to new standards.

Popular brands specifications

Mannol Dexron 3

Mannol Dexron 3 automatic is considered a multi-purpose oil for automatic transmissions. This Manol mixture is also used in power steering, hydraulic clutches, and spinning mechanisms.

Just like all, without exception, Dextron oils have a reddish tone. The manufacturer has worked hard on the combination of additives and synthetic components, the components of which help improve the fractional characteristics at the time of gear shifting.

Oil from a manufacturer in Germany has high low-temperature characteristics, excellent antioxidant properties, and stable chemical composition throughout the entire period of operation. It is not advisable to use copper elements as a lubricant; the liquid is absolutely neutral to all other alloys and materials.

The products have all possible tolerances:

  • ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14, ALLISON C4/TES 389, GM DEXR. III H/G/F, FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H and others.

Castrol DEXRON

Castrol DEXRON is a low-viscosity mixture for automatic transmissions and is designed for use in modern gearboxes. It has proven itself to be the mixture with the greatest fuel economy.

Castrol production is established in Germany. The oil consists of high-quality base mixtures with an optimal set of additives. Has positive reviews from GM and Ford management, exceeds the requirements of the Japanese JASA 1A specification. In cases where it is not possible to purchase Dextron ATF for a Japanese, you can safely use oil from Castrol -.

Meets all major standards:

  • Honda/Acura, Hyundai/Kia SP, Nissan Matic, Suzuki AT Oil, Mitsubishi SP, Mazda ATF, Toyota and Subaru.

Mobil 3 ATF oil

Mobil oil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral structure. Used in power steering and automatic transmissions with GM Dexron 3 approval standard.

Mobil absolutely complies with all types of transmission seals in automatic transmission mechanisms. Compatible with all red liquids of the Dexron III specification. The composition is not recommended for use on northern continents, where temperatures drop to -30 degrees. Mobil oil with Dextron No. 3 specification can also be used in power steering mechanisms.

Meets Ford Mercon, ATF Dex standards. III, ZF TE-ML and Dex. 3

Motul Multi ATF

Motul Multi ATF – synthetic fluid 100% A universal oil designed for automatic transmissions manufactured since 2000.

It is also possible to use it in hydrostatic transmissions, power steering, and other mechanisms (including ATF) that support standard Mercon and Dexron. Motul is a leader in chemical composition and viscosity, temperature indicators, stability functions, meets all requirements from GM.

Meets the basic standards of MAZDA, CHRYSLER, JAGUAR, RENAULT Elfmatic, Renaultmatic D2 D3, Acura/HONDA, Lexus/TOYOTA ATF, Audi, GM DEXRON 2 and 3, FORD, BMW and MITSUBISHI.

Operating conditions for Dexron 3

Historically, you should not rely on the tolerances of mixtures from manufacturing companies. All reputable car enthusiasts recommend paying attention to the specifications from the GM concern and the standards from automatic transmission manufacturers.

The main preconditions that you can focus on are the designations of the “transmission” on the automatic transmission dipstick. If “Dexron III” is marked, then it is preferable to fill it. Otherwise, the consequences could be dire.

Our advice: Follow the recommendations of the automatic transmission manufacturers of your car, follow the standards from General Motors, fill in the acceptable transmission mixture, and replace it in a timely manner. And your transmission will serve you long and reliably.

IN automatic transmission gears use DEXRON-II oil. On ancient cars 95 and older, DEXRON-II D was used, it mineral based, on more recent ones DEXRON-II E or DEXRON-III is used. In Toyotas, you can read on the oil dipstick what is pouring into the box. In any case, you should not mix mineral- and synthetic-based liquids.

IN Japanese cars It’s enough to know which dexton is suitable for your machine and you can safely pour it, but some owners of old cars face difficulties in finding DEXTRON2D\2E. In a car with DEXTRON2D written on the dipstick, you can pour ONLY DEXTRON2D, while on machines using DEXTRON2E you can replace with DEXTRON3 (but not back, if the automatic transmission requires D3; it cannot be replaced with D2E). All negative opinions regarding such a replacement are related to the fact that Dextron3 has greater fluidity than its predecessor, this has a beneficial effect on the properties of the automatic transmission in the cold period, but from - due to the fact that on some old automatic transmissions the gaskets are not designed for this level of automatic transmission oil viscosity, they leak slightly, this is not a problem in itself, unless of course you allow the oil to leak below the minimum level, in any case it is recommended to either change the gaskets, or periodically add a little D3.

About the color of automatic transmission fluid (Note that I specifically said fluid, not oil!) Many determine the choice of fluid by color, in vain! The color is just dyes that manufacturers add at the factory to make it easier to find smudges, and the difference in color shows what base the ATF is made on. Yellow ATF color indicates that the automatic transmission is filled with synthetic-based fluid, and red indicates the mineral composition of the fluid. Matching the type of liquid is much more critical than its color. Until recently, it was believed that it was impossible to mix automatic transmission fluids on the same principle as motor oils, because when operating temperatures are reached engine oil on different bases, the mixture is folded in this way.

It is worth dispelling this misconception because 1-In an automatic transmission there are no such loads under which the oil could curdle. 2-In an automatic transmission, it is not OIL that is used, but transmission fluid on different bases, and mixing it does not cause any harm to the automatic transmission (and people simply call it Oil out of habit). On the other hand, it’s better not to experiment with something as expensive to repair as an automatic transmission, especially since finding fluid on the right base is not difficult these days, so you shouldn’t retrain the automatic transmission to a different base, it’s better to pour what it’s used to because You will not get any benefits from changing oils of different bases. (Remember: You can replace Dextron 2 with Dextron3, but not vice versa!), buy oil only in RELIABLE places and do not skimp on it, the automatic transmission is not the part of the car that tolerates this!

By the way, the same applies to hydraulic boosters on old cars (For those who don’t know, you need to pour the same oil into the power steering as in the automatic transmission), which also tends to give a small leak when using Dextron3 instead of Dextron2E.

Based on site materials

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Oil miscibility problems usually arise when adding oil during operation. In this case, both base oils and additives must be combined.

Mineral base oils can be mixed with each other without restrictions.

Semi-synthetic oils - either mixtures of synthetic with mineral oil, or hydrocracking oils, combine well with mineral oils.

Synthetic polyalphaolefin (PAO) oils also mix well with mineral oils.

The compatibility of other synthetic oils (polyester, glycol, silicone, etc.) with mineral oils and with each other depends on their structure. Standards for motor and transmission oils require their full compatibility. Therefore, it can be assumed that base oils cannot cause deterioration in properties lubricants when mixing them. Oil additives are used in the form of well-combined packages. Adding other additives may disrupt their combination. In addition, synthetic oils have different sets of additives than mineral oils, and this increases the risk of unwanted interaction between all components of the mixture.

The result of a negative interaction when mixing oils can be:

— A decrease in the effectiveness of individual additives, which is almost impossible to detect;

— Precipitation of additives and their oxidation products;

— Increased engine pollution;

— Accelerated increase in oil viscosity;

Deterioration in oil performance may not appear immediately, but after a certain time and may not be clearly visible at all.

- mix only oils of the same category, for example, in API oil SG/CD add only API SG/CD oil;

- mix only oils made from base oils of the same type, for example, mix mineral oils only with mineral oils.

For the same reason, oil manufacturers do not recommend adding any other additives or additives to oils.

Power steering fluid. Is it possible to mix types of liquids?

In itself, the hydraulic booster device is quite reliable. With the right and regular maintenance The hydraulic booster will serve faithfully for a long time.

Maintenance of the power steering system is quite simple and a considerable part of car enthusiasts do everything necessary procedures on one's own.

Stages of power steering maintenance.

1.Timely replacement oily liquid in system.

IN in this case A car enthusiast has several questions: how often does it need to change the oil fluid and what composition is best to use for long-term power steering operation?

But I think they are being a little disingenuous. If the mileage is short. I would limit myself to once every 2 years. As you know, during power steering operation the oil becomes unusable over time.

Power steering fluid plays important role in the operation of the amplification system, therefore it is necessary to carefully and selectively approach the choice of liquid. If you use high-quality power steering lubricant, you can increase the service life of the system several times.

2. Constant level monitoring working mixture in the power steering system.

I don’t see any point in describing anything supernatural here. Just check the level periodically. For example, once a month. You don't know how.
Contact the service for help.

3. Timely adjustment of the power steering drive.

I would call this point a little differently. Change the belt yourself. Watch the tension. It is important not to overtighten, as the power steering pump can be damaged prematurely. If you don’t know how, go to the service again)

4.Selection of fluid for the power steering system.

The assortment of a modern car store consists of several types of hydraulic booster oils. The provided compositions are easily distinguished by color. Still, the main difference between gur lubricants is not in color, but in composition. Let's consider the classification of liquids by color and composition.

Red oil for power steering.
This color of liquid (usually Dextron-III) belongs to the class of compounds for automatic transmissions and power steering. Red liquids come in several types: mineral and synthetic. Therefore, before mixing two liquids of the same color, you need to make sure that the oils are of the same type.

Yellow oil.
This type of fluid is one of the most common and is often used to service modern cars. It is usually labeled PSF (which stands for power steering fluid).

Green power steering fluid.
This mixture is used exclusively for hydraulic power steering systems and is not suitable for automatic transmissions. Compound Green colour can be either synthetic or mineral oil.

The most common question is choosing between mineral and synthetic composition. If the manufacturer's instructions do not specifically indicate synthetic oil, then it is best to use a mineral composition. The fact is that there are many rubber components in the hydraulic booster system. Synthetics adversely affect the performance of rubber components and accelerate their wear. In order to use synthetics in servicing the hydraulic booster system, it is necessary to make sure that the rubber components of the aggregate react normally to synthetics and have a special composition.
When servicing the power steering, it is necessary to take into account some rules in order not to reduce the service life of the system.

When replacing the working mixture, use power steering fluid from trusted manufacturers. The use of high-quality compounds will increase the service life of the system. Thus, you will avoid large-scale breakdowns and vehicle maintenance costs.

DEXRON-2 mineral or synthetic?

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