Automatic transmission fluids for Toyota
Toyota markets its own automatic transmission fluids (ATF) under the Toyota brand name . Toyota does not license its specifications for automatic transmission oils to oil manufacturers who wish to sell the oils under their own brand names. Toyota dealerships and online dealerships now sell Toyota branded oils. If the official Toyota logo is not on the container, the fluid may not have been approved by Toyota and there is no guarantee that it will meet Toyota specifications.
Toyota automatic transmission fluids (ATF)
The original Toyota Type-T gear oil first appeared in 1988. Over the years, the original specification has been replaced by Type T-II, Type T-IV and WS. Toyota has refined its ATF specifications over the years. The newer oils are not always backwards compatible with earlier oils. Newer 6-, 8- and 10-speed transmissions, as well as hybrid-electric ( HEV ), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), CVT and electric vehicle transmission technologies require special oils in order to function properly. There is still a market for older fluids designed to meet the earlier oil specifications. The following details provide information on the backward compatibility of each liquid. to find.
Before Toyota ATF - 1959 - 1988
1959 - GM Oil Type A
In 1957, General Motors (GM) published the Type A oil specification. This oil was better suited to the higher oil temperatures caused by the torque converters and engines of the time. The oil specification was revised again in 1958, 1959 and 1960.
In 1959, Toyota adopted the GM Type A oil specification. Toyota recommended the following brands of "A" oils:
- British Petroleum (BP) ATF type "A"
- Caltex Texamatic type "A" oil
- Esso standard ATF type "A"
- Mobil Mobilfluid 200 Type "A" (see picture)
- Bowl Donax T-6 type "A" oil
This fluid was first used in the transmission used by Toyota Corona (RT40, RS43L, MS43L, RT43L) in 1962:
- 1959 A10 2-speed Toyoglide semi-automatic transmission (Toyota's first semi-automatic transmission)
- 1962 A20 2-speed Toyoglide automatic transmission (Toyota's first fully automatic transmission)
1966 - Ford Oil Type F
In 1966, Toyota took over the M2C33-F (Type F) oil specification from Ford . This oil had improved viscosity at low temperatures to ensure adequate switching times at low temperatures. The oil also had better oxidation resistance properties, which resulted in longer oil life.
Toyota recommended the following brands of Ford Type F oil:
- Castrol TQ Type-F
- British Petroleum (BP) ATF Type-F
- Caltex Texamatic Fluid Type-F (see picture)
- Esso standard glides
- Mobil Mobilfluid 210 ATF
- Shell Donax T-7
- White Rose Type 7 ATF
This oil was first used in 1967 in the Toyota Crown and Corona Mark II :
- 1967 A30 3-speed Toyoglide transmission.
1969 - GM Oil Dexron (B)
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In 1968 Toyota took over the Dexron (B) oil specification from GM . This oil had improved viscosity at low temperatures to ensure adequate switching times at low temperatures. The fluid also had better oxidation resistance properties, resulting in longer oil life. Toyota became a licensed reseller of the Dexron (B) oil and markets it under the Toyota brand name.
This oil is backwards compatible with all Type A, but not with Ford Type F oil.
- 1970 Toyota A32 3-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (EAT) RWD.
- 1972 Toyota A40 (Developed with Borg-Warner Co.) (AW) 3-Speed RWD
In 1973 Toyota adopted GM's MS-7176 oil specification for Dexron-II (C) . This newer oil included newer oxidation and rust inhibitors and replaced the previously used whale oil. The oil also proved to be more durable. Toyota became a licensed reseller of the Dexron-II (C) oil and markets it under the Toyota brand name. This fluid replaced the previous oil specification.
1975 - GM-Oil-Dexron-II (D)
In 1975 Toyota took over GM (GM6032M) with the Dexron-II (D) oil specification . The oil had better oxidation resistance properties, which resulted in longer oil life. Toyota became a licensed reseller of the Dexron-II (D) oil. It was marketed under the Toyota brand name. This fluid replaced the previous oil specification.
It was first used in the following gearboxes:
- 1977 Toyota A40D 4-speed AT with overdrive rear-wheel drive (A World's First)
- 1979 Toyota A55 3-speed front wheel drive
- 1980 Toyota A43DL 4-speed rear-wheel drive with TCC
- 1981 Toyota A43DE 4-speed with TCC, first computer-controlled rear-wheel drive AT
- 1982 Toyota A140L / A140E 4-speed front-wheel drive with TCC ATX for the Camry
- 1984 Toyota A340L 4-speed AT for trucks
- 1984 Toyota A340H electronically controlled all-wheel and rear-wheel drive, 4-speed with TCC
- 1989 Toyota A341E electronically controlled all- and rear-wheel drive 4-speed with TCC
Note: The Dexron-II (D) oil was replaced in 2002 by the GM Dexron-III (H) oil specification. (See Toyota Technical Service Bulletin TC001-02)
Toyota ATF 1988-present
In 1988 Toyota issued its first automatic transmission fluid specification for Type T oil, mentioned in Toyota TSB, Issue 9-10 of April 10, 1988
This oil was first used in the following drives:
- 1988 A241H all-wheel drive in the Corolla
- 1988 Toyota A540H electronically controlled 4-speed all-wheel drive with TCC
- 1992 Toyota A341H electronically controlled four-wheel drive with 4 gears and TCC.
This oil is not compatible with the oil recommended by Toyota so far.
1993 Type T II oil
1993 Toyota made several changes to the recommendations for transmission oils:
- Toyota published the T-II Type High Performance ATF Fluid Specification for the A340Ei, Turbo Supra, and others in 1993.
- Dexron II (E) has been replaced by Dexron III (G).
This oil is not backward compatible with the previous T-type fluid, it was first used in the following gearboxes:
- 1993 Toyota A340Ei electronically controlled RWD 4-speed with TCC - Turbo Supra
- 1996 Toyota A350E electronically controlled RWD 5-speed with TCC - Lexus GS300
In 1994-1995, some early OBD-II equipped vehicles had received the P0300 (Accidental Misfire) trouble code. The engineers found that the road forces transmitted through the torque converter clutch (TCC) carried the normal speed fluctuations to the crankshaft and led the engine control unit to believe that there was a cylinder misfire.
The solution was to create a new type of TCC that had a slip of around 35 RPM. Toyota called this a Slip-Controlled Lock-Up Clutch (SCLC), other manufacturers had their own names.Some SCLC systems had tremors or vibrations during normal operation. The engineers tried several changes to the computer calibration, but a revised oil was also needed to fix the problem.
- Toyota released the Type T-III ATF in 1995
- Ford published the Mercon V oil specification in 1996
- GM published the Dexron-III (G) oil specification in 1998
- Chrysler published the MS-9602 Revision C Oil Specification (MS-9602 Change C) in 1998.
1998 - Type T-IV oil
In 1998 Toyota released the Original ATF Type T-IV Oil Specification (JWS3309). This fluid was the next-generation high-performance ATF for slip-controlled automatic transmissions. This fluid replaces the fluids of type T-III, type T-II and type T in all vehicles. II and T - IV are specified, not to be confused with Chrysler's Mopar ATF + 4. These are neither equivalent nor compatible:
Annotation:
- Type T-IV fluid is backward compatible with the previous Type-T oil.
- Type T-IV can replace Type T-II oil, but should not be mixed.
This oil was first used in the following gearboxes:
- 1998-2003 Toyota P111 hybrid drive
2002 - WS oil
In 2002 Toyota published its worldwide ATF-WS oil specifications (WS stands for "World Standard") - (JWS3324 or NWS9638). This oil is not backward compatible with previous Toyota or Dexron oils. Almost all 2004 and later Toyota vehicles with automatic transmissions require the WS oil specification. This oil is hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture) and should never be reused. According to Toyota Bulletin T-SB-003-11, oil from a previously unopened container should always be used.
Toyota claims that with normal use, the oil has an inspection-only service interval; ATF-WS does not require flushing or changing over the life of the vehicle. However, a review of the maintenance schedule of many Toyota vehicles shows that there is a replacement interval when the vehicle is used on short journeys, in the city, when pulling heavy loads, when being towed, with trailers or with a roof rack.
This oil is not compatible with the oils recommended by Toyota so far.
This oil was first used in the following gearboxes:
- 2004 Toyota P112 hybrid drive
- 2006 AB60E 6-speed automatic
- 2006 U660E 6-speed drive
- 2007 AA80E 8-speed automatic (the first 8-speed automatic for smaller trucks)
- 2017 AGA0E 10-speed automatic
2011 - CVT oil TC
In 2011, Toyota released the CVT Oil-TC Oil Specification for continuously variable transmissions (CVT).
This oil was first used in the following transmission:
- 2012-2013 K41B (Scion IQ)
2013 - CVT oil FE
In 2013, Toyota released the CVT fluid FE oil specification for continuously variable transmissions (CVT).
This oil was first used in the following gearboxes:
- 2013 K313 (Corolla)
- 2014 K41B (Scion IQ)
- 2017 K114 (C-HR)
- 2017 K312 (Yaris Thailand)
- 2020 K120 (Corolla)
In 1967 Ford issued Type-F oil specification. The type F oil was designed for a "lifetime" oil that normally never needs to be changed. It was the first of many Ford “Lifetime” oils. In the Ford factory manual from 1974 it said: “The automatic transmission is filled at the factory with 'lifetime' fluid. If it is necessary to add or replace fluid, use only fluids which meet Ford Specification M2C33F. Many other transmission manufacturers have followed with their own 'Lifetime' automatic transmission fluids " . Toyota's first "Lifetime" ATF was WS (World Standard) oil, which was specified in 2002.
How ATF can survive a "lifetime"
In order to understand how a liquid can last a “lifetime”, a study was carried out on the Chrysler Mopar ATF in 1939, which proved to be helpful. The November 1954 issue of Lubrication Magazine (published by The Texas Company, later known as Texaco ) contained an article entitled Evolution of the Chrysler PowerFlite Automatic Transmission. This article describes the oil used in the 1939 Chrysler Fluid Drive and its subsequent revisions and improvements up to 1954.
A section of the function describing the lubrication of the fluid drive fluid coupling states, "The fluid drive fluid coupling is partially filled with Mopar Fluid Drive Fluid, a special highly refined pure mineral oil with a viscosity of about 185 SUS at 100 ° F [37.78 ° C], excellent inherent oxidation stability, high viscosity index (100) and excellent air repellency, very low natural pour point (−25 ° F [−31.67 ° C] ), ability to adequately control the pilot ball bearing and sealing surface lubricate, and neutrality to the sealing bellows.
The liquid works under almost ideal conditions in an essentially hermetically sealed housing. The initially present small amount of atmospheric oxygen is removed by a harmless reaction with the liquid to leave an inert ( nitrogen ) residual atmosphere. As a result, it was not necessary to drain the oil and replace, and the recommendation to check the fuel level has been gradually from an initial 2,500 miles to 10,000 miles [15,500 km] and finally to "infinite" - or on the life of the car - expand.
Since waste and level controls were not only unnecessary, but also often harmful (by introducing oxygenated air and destroying dirt), Chrysler eventually ditched the enticing level control plugs. This mechanism is therefore one of the few that is actually lubricated for the life of the car. There are now countless examples of converters that have been driven well over 100,000 miles [160,000 km] without paying any attention and were in good working order when the vehicle was retired. ” The lesson Chrysler learned with its fluid powertrains also applies for modern automatic transmissions.
Sealed gears
Automatic transmission fluid lasts longer if the transmission case could be hermetically sealed. However, gearboxes typically have two potential entry points for air:
- The dipstick tube. Any transmission with a dipstick tube can draw additional oxygen into the transmission through a dipstick that is not fully seated in the tube or a dipstick tube plug that is not fully seated. Even checking the fluid level with a dipstick can add extra oxygen and debris to the transmission. Many modern transmissions do not have an oil dipstick, but rather sealed control plugs for the transmission oil level. By removing the traditional dipstick, the transmission manufacturer has also removed a potential entry point for oxygen. This reduces the possibility of the liquid oxidizing. A sealed transmission typically has a longer transmission fluid life than an unsealed transmission.
- The vent valve. Transmissions require vents to accommodate internal changes in air pressure that occur with fluctuating fluid temperatures and fluid levels during transmission operation. Without these vents, pressure could build up, which can lead to seal and gasket leaks. Before using better quality base oils in the late 1990s, some older transmission vent vents included a Transmission Air Breathing Suppressor (TABS) valve to prevent oxygen and water from getting into their transmissions. Oxygen reacts with high temperature gear oil and can cause oxidation, rust and corrosion. Automatic transmission fluids that use lower quality base oils are more likely to oxidize than fluids that use higher quality base oils. Toyota and other transmission manufacturers are now using smaller, remotely mounted vents that are specially designed to keep water out but let a small amount of air through the vent when needed.
Sealed ATF canisters
Automatic transmission fluid will last longer if it comes from a previously unopened container
- Use Sealed Containers: Containers used to hold automatic transmission fluid (ATF) must always be sealed. If ATF is exposed to the atmosphere, it can absorb moisture and possibly cause coating problems.
- Use new fluid only: When repairing ATF-equipped transmissions, it is important to use only new, clean ATF when refilling the transmission. Never reuse ATF.
Example on the maintenance plan
| Toyota ATF change interval under "normal driving conditions" * | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil specification | Miles | |||
| 1959 GM type "A" | 15,000 | |||
| 1966 Ford Type-F | 24,000 | |||
| 1967 GM Dexron (B) | 24,000 | |||
| 1973 GM Dexron-II (C) | 50,000 | |||
| 1975 GM Dexron-II (D) | 50,000 | |||
| 1988 type T | 50,000 | |||
| 1993 type T-II | 50,000 | |||
| 1995 type T-III | 50,000 | |||
| 1998 type T-IV | 100,000 | |||
| 2002 WS | 120,000 | |||
| * from the maintenance manual under "normal driving conditions" and maintenance recommendations | ||||
| Toyota ATF oil change interval for "heavy duty operation" * | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fluid Specification | Miles | |||
| 1959 GM type "A" | 7,500 | |||
| 1966 Ford Type-F | 12,000 | |||
| 1967 GM Dexron (B) | 12,000 | |||
| 1973 GM Dexron-II (C) | 25,000 | |||
| 1975 GM Dexron-II (D) | 25,000 | |||
| 1988 type T | 25,000 | |||
| 1993 type T-II | 25,000 | |||
| 1995 type T-III | 25,000 | |||
| 1998 type T-IV | 30,000 | |||
| 2002 WS | 60,000 | |||
| * See your vehicle maintenance guide for definition of “Special Operating” conditions and recommended service interval | ||||
Toyota Lifetime automatic transmission oil made from higher quality base oil and an additive package are more chemically stable, less reactive and do not oxidize as easily as lower quality fluids made from lower quality base oil and an additive package. Therefore, higher quality gear oils can have a long life (typically 120,000 miles (193,121 km) or more) under normal driving conditions.
The definition of "Lifetime Fluid" (an oil filling for a lifetime) differs from gearbox manufacturer to gearbox manufacturer. Information on the correct maintenance interval for the fluid in your transmission and your driving conditions can always be found in the vehicle maintenance manual.
Example on the 2018 Camry
According to the maintenance schedule of a Toyota Camry model year 2018 with WS “Lifetime Fluid” and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the automatic transmission oil never needs to be changed under “normal” driving conditions; However, there are additional maintenance items for special operating conditions:
Normal driving
- Transport of passengers and cargo within the limits specified on the nameplate within the tire and load information
- Driving on normal road surfaces within the legal driving limits.
The automatic transmission oil never needs to be changed under “normal” driving conditions.
Special operating conditions
- Pulling a team or towing
- Use of a car roof rack
- Heavy vehicle load
- long idle and / or slow travel on long journeys such as police, taxi or door-to-door delivery.
Under “Special Operating Conditions”, replace the automatic transmission oil and the filter every 96,560 km or every 72 months.
According to the maintenance schedule of a Toyota Tacoma model year 2018 with WS “Lifetime Fluid” and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the automatic transmission oil never needs to be changed under “normal” driving conditions; however, there are additional maintenance elements for special operating conditions:
Normal driving
- Move passengers and cargo within the recommended limits on the tire and load information label
- Drive on appropriate road surfaces within the legal driving limits.
Under "normal" driving conditions, the automatic transmission oil never needs to be changed.
Special operating conditions
- Pulling a team or towing
- Use of a car roof rack
- Heavy vehicle load
- Long idling and / or slow driving over long distances such as with the police, taxi or door-to-door delivery.
Under “Special operating conditions”, replace the automatic transmission oil and the filter every 100,000 km or every 72 months.
Aftermarket ATFs
The oil aftermarket has been producing both approved and non-approved formulations for automatic transmission fluids (ATF) for over 70 years. Today, aftermarket fluids claimed by their manufacturers that are compatible for use in brands of automatic transmission continue to be sold under names such as multi-purpose and multi-vehicle fluids. Unlicensed fluid is usually less expensive. These oils are not approved or licensed by the vehicle manufacturer for use in their transmissions. Oils approved and licensed by the vehicle manufacturer must have the license number printed on the product information label of the container or on the container housing. Operating materials that have not been approved have no license ID. The industry-specific terminology on the label can also help determine if the product has been licensed:
- Suitable for Use - If the label on the canister states that the oil is suitable for use in your vehicle, then it is not a vehicle manufacturer approved or licensed oil. It's just an assurance from the oil manufacturer.
- Meets Requirements - If the canister label states that the oil meets the requirements for a vehicle, it is not a vehicle manufacturer approved or licensed oil. It's just a product description from the oil manufacturer.
- Exceeds requirements - If approved or licensed oil is stated on the label of the canister, it is only an assurance from the oil manufacturer that the oil will exceed the requirements in the vehicle concerned, it does not say anything about an approval or license from the vehicle manufacturer
- Approved, Licensed - If the label on the canister states that the oil is approved for use in your vehicle, then the oil is approved or licensed by the vehicle manufacturer. The release license ID should also be indicated on the canister.
See also
- Generals Motors DEXRON automatic transmission fluids
- Ford MERCON automatic transmission fluids
- Chrysler - Mopar automatic transmission fluids
- Automatic transmission oil (general about automatic transmission oils)
Web links
- A Look at Changes in Automatic Transmission Fluid
- The History of Automatic Transmission Fluid - ATF History Part 1
- 60 Years of Toyota Automatic Transmission Fluid - ATF History Part 5
- Changing Gears: The Development of the Automotive Transmission
- Toyota Service Information Subscription Access
Individual evidence
- ↑ 2002 Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-TC001-02 Automatic Transmission Fluid Requirements.
- ↑ DEVELOPING TRANSAXLE FLUID.
- ↑ Type F Automatic Transmission Fluid and Power Steering Fluid .
- ↑ Chrysler transmission fluids: 7176, ATF + 3, ATF + 4 . In: www.allpar.com . Retrieved February 1, 2019.
- ↑ Next Generation High-Performance ATF for Slip-Controlled Automatic Transmission.
- ↑ Next Generation High-Performance ATF for Slip-Controlled Automatic Transmission.
- ^ Evolution of the Chrysler PowerFlite Automatic Transmission . In: The Texas Company (Ed.): Lubrication . tape 40 , no. 11 , November 1954, ZDB -ID 165120-1 , p. 129-135 (English).
- ↑ 80 Years of GM Automatic Transmission Fluid - ATF History Part 2.
- ↑ HiTEC® 419R ATF Additive Package.