The other day while replacing my radiator i noticed my trans fluid is a little dark. Time for a change!


What type of fluid should i use? I know absolutely nothing about transmission service so if you could give me the brand and type that would be awesome.

Also, is it worth it to put in the more expensive fluid vs the cheaper fluid?

I have the 2000 sport with the automatic. Im assuming it's the AW4, but im not positive as I've never looked it up.

 

Use Dexron II fluid (that's what owner manual says)

 

This is correct, but unfortunately Dex II is no longer available. Dex III is.. so this is the one to use.

Is there a benefit to using a more expensive product... That is a VERY slippery slope to tread. There is a benefit to using a better product, but that isn't always the more expensive one. Pick a fluid from a reputable source and you are way ahead of the game.

 

You will probably have difficulty obtaining a trans fluid labeled as just Dex III. I just use the high mileage DEX/MERC stuff.

 

I know I might be going against advice here, but Chrysler did put out a TSB not too long ago that ATF+4 is safe to use in the AW4 after some research.

 

I've used DEX III/M from Advance AutoParts.

So far no problems.

I did this actually twice since I have this jeep , about more than 12 months now, (it's 96, 200K+) . Drain pan and fill up and then again after few months, that is, so it's somewhat 2/3 (?) replaced / mixed with old. Also I have no history if the fluid was ever replaced before.

 

Amsoil Universal ATF

 

The AW-4 was NEVER a Chrysler product.... Got one from Toyota or Aisin-Warner saying that ATF+4 is fine???

Take a good look at the date on that TSB......

In Oct. 07, Chrysler specifically exempted the AW-4 from the +4 recommendation But in Apr. 08 after the warranties expire on the last of the AW-4's then suddenly they change that.

 

Without knowledge of the transmission, its miles, use, maintenance and the owners driving style to recommend a switch to synthetic is foolish.

There have been a number of transmission failures related to switching and older high mileage AW-4 to synthetic fluids.

 

Bananas. I'd fill it with bananas. They have the same Dex II license agreement with Government Motors (who originally licensed the Dex name and spec'ed the formulation) that the oil companies have. Some people trust Chichita more than Advance Auto.

But if you don't have enough bananas, I'd use any Dex III I could find...even Advance Auto's.

 

You've said what you WOULD use.
So what exactly do (or did) you actually use?

thanks

 

AW4 exempt from that TSB.


Ding Ding Ding

DexIII only.

 

Dex III is the only fluid to use. There are no substitutes.

 

Thanks guys. So just buy a name brand Dex 3 fluid.