Can you use Dexron III transmission fluid in a Ford?
The short answer is no, you should not use Dexron III transmission fluid in a Ford vehicle. Dexron III is a General Motors-specific automatic transmission fluid, while Ford vehicles require their own unique transmission fluid formulations. Using the wrong fluid can lead to transmission problems and damage.
Differences Between Dexron III and Ford Transmission Fluids
Dexron III is a type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) developed by General Motors for use in their vehicles. It is designed to meet the specific requirements of GM transmissions, including their friction characteristics, viscosity, and additive package. Ford, on the other hand, has its own proprietary transmission fluid formulations that are engineered for Ford's transmission designs.
The key differences between Dexron III and Ford transmission fluids include:
- Friction Modifiers: Ford fluids contain different friction modifiers than Dexron III, which are optimized for Ford's transmission clutch and band materials.
- Viscosity: Ford fluids have a different viscosity profile than Dexron III to provide the right lubrication and hydraulic performance in Ford transmissions.
- Additive Package: The additive packages in Ford fluids are tailored to protect Ford-specific transmission components, such as gears and bearings.
Using Dexron III in a Ford transmission can lead to issues like slipping, shuddering, and premature wear of transmission components. The wrong fluid may not provide adequate lubrication or friction characteristics, compromising the transmission's performance and longevity.
Recommended Ford Transmission Fluids
Ford recommends using one of their own branded transmission fluid formulations, such as Motorcraft MERCON or MERCON LV, depending on the specific model and year of the Ford vehicle. These fluids are engineered to meet Ford's strict requirements and ensure optimal transmission performance and durability.
It's important to always refer to your Ford owner's manual or contact a Ford dealer to determine the correct transmission fluid for your vehicle. Using the wrong fluid can void your warranty and lead to expensive transmission repairs down the line.
What transmission fluid does Ford recommend?
MERCON® fluids are the only fluids approved by Ford Motor Company for their recommended application. The different MERCON® fluids are unique fluids formulated for specific applications.
What is compatible with dexron 3 transmission fluid?
DEXRON® -III/MERCON® ATF is recommended for the following applications: All late model GM, American Motors, Chrysler and most imported car, light truck and van automatic transmissions, as well as, those in Ford vehicles that call for Mercon® fluid.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Ford 10 speed take?
ULV ATF
ULV ATF is a full-synthetic, ultra-low viscosity transmission fluid for the latest General Motors and Ford automatic transmission with 9 and 10 speed gears, specifically recommended for Ford/GM 10R80 and select Ford F-150 and Raptor trucks.
Are Dexron and Mercon transmission fluid the same?
In short, the answer is no, and it's why you want to use an OE approved fluid specific to your car. Dexron fluids are used by GM. Ford and Mazda designed their transmissions for Mercon. Other import brands like Honda (DW-1) and Toyota (ATF Type-T) have their own specific fluid too.
What is compatible with Dexron III transmission fluid?
DEXRON® -III/MERCON® ATF is recommended for the following applications: All late model GM, American Motors, Chrysler and most imported car, light truck and van automatic transmissions, as well as, those in Ford vehicles that call for Mercon® fluid.
Can you use Dexron 3 transmission fluid in a Ford?
ATF Dexron-III is recommended for use in automatic transmissions, where the manufacturer prescribes a GM Dexron IIE, Dexron III, or Ford Mercon fluid.
Is Dexron III compatible with Mercon V?
MAG 1 MERCON® V ATF is also suitable for use where the following automatic transmission fluids are recommended DEXRON®-II (E, F), DEXRON®-III (G, H), Honda Z-1, MERCON® Nissan Matic-J or Toyota T-IV. Not for use in vehicles requiring Ford Type F fluid or Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs).
Are Dexron and MERCON transmission fluid the same?
In short, the answer is no, and it's why you want to use an OE approved fluid specific to your car. Dexron fluids are used by GM. Ford and Mazda designed their transmissions for Mercon. Other import brands like Honda (DW-1) and Toyota (ATF Type-T) have their own specific fluid too.
What vehicles use Dexron III transmission fluid?
ATF Dexron III is recommended for many transmissions used in General Motors cars, Holden, Isuzu, Opel and Hydramatic transmissions used in a wide range of vehicles. It is also good for many earlier model Japanese vehicles where Dexron type fluids are recommended.
What is compatible with Dexron III?
1998 – DEXRON-III(G)
This fluid is backward compatible with all previous DEXRON fluids as well as the Type "A" suffix "A" and the Type "A" fluids produced from 1949 to 1966.
