There are generally three types of transmission fluid:
- Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF): Used primarily in older manual transmission vehicles. It is usually thicker, heavier (e.g., 75W to 140W), and has a stronger smell. Classic manual transmission fluid is often not compatible with automatic transmissions.
- Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF): Designed for automatic transmissions and some newer manual transmissions. It is thinner than manual fluid and helps with lubrication, clutch and band friction, valve body operation, torque converter functions, and transmission cooling. ATF is often colored red, green, blue, purple, or amber for easy identification.
- Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid (CVT Fluid): Made specifically for vehicles with continuously variable transmissions, which use belts and pulleys instead of gears. CVT fluid has different properties and is usually synthetic-based.
Additionally, transmission fluids can be either traditional (mineral-based) or synthetic, with synthetic fluids offering better resistance to breakdown and oxidation at high temperatures. In summary:
- Manual transmission fluid: Thicker, for manual gearboxes.
- Automatic transmission fluid: Thinner, for automatic gearboxes, colorful.
- CVT fluid: For continuously variable transmissions, often synthetic.
Choosing the right type depends on the vehicle's transmission type and manufacturer specifications.
