What company makes Honda transmission fluid?
There isn’t a single company that exclusively makes Honda transmission fluid. Honda’s automatic transmission fluid (DW-1) and CVT fluid (HCF-2) are produced under license by multiple manufacturers, and you can choose either Honda Genuine fluids or third-party fluids that meet the Honda specifications.
Understanding Honda transmission fluids
Honda uses two main fluid specifications for its transmissions: DW-1 for many automatic transmissions and HCF-2 for most Honda and some Acura CVTs. These specifications are managed through licensing agreements with approved manufacturers, meaning several companies can produce fluids that meet Honda’s standards. This arrangement ensures availability while preserving the performance characteristics Honda designs into its transmissions.
DW-1 ATF for automatics
The DW-1 specification is Honda’s standard for many automatic transmissions. Fluids labeled as DW-1 are designed to meet the performance, friction, and durability requirements Honda specifies for its automatic gearboxes. While Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 is sold under Honda’s brand, there are third-party fluids that are certified to meet the DW-1 spec as well.
HCF-2 CVT Fluid
For many Honda CVTs, the recommended fluid is HCF-2. This designation covers the requirements for CVT operation, including heat management and friction characteristics suited to Honda’s continuously variable transmissions. Like DW-1, HCF-2 fluids can be procured as Honda Genuine products or as third-party fluids that meet Honda’s HCF-2 specification.
To help you navigate the choices, here is a concise guide to buying fluids that meet Honda specifications.
Before you buy, consider the following:
- Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 is the official fluid for many automatics and is widely available through Honda dealers and authorized service centers.
- Honda Genuine CVT Fluid HCF-2 is recommended for Honda CVTs and is available as a Honda-branded product.
- Third-party fluids that meet Honda DW-1 or HCF-2 specs can be used, provided they are certified as meeting the respective Honda standard.
- Always verify the exact specification and viscosity required in your owner’s manual or with a dealer before purchasing.
Using the wrong specification can affect shifting quality, performance, and transmission longevity, so accuracy matters when selecting a fluid.
Where to find and purchase
You can obtain Honda transmission fluids through Honda automotive dealers, authorized service centers, and reputable auto parts retailers. When shopping, look for fluids explicitly labeled to meet DW-1 for automatics or HCF-2 for CVTs, or opt for Honda Genuine fluids if you want the exact factory-backed product. Always cross-check the vehicle’s manual for the recommended specification and viscosity.
Summary
Honda transmission fluids are not made by a single company. The DW-1 automatic transmission fluid and HCF-2 CVT fluid are produced under license by multiple manufacturers to Honda’s specifications. Consumers have the option of Honda Genuine fluids or third-party fluids that are certified to meet DW-1 or HCF-2, depending on the transmission type. Always confirm the correct spec for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Honda take?
The correct Honda transmission fluid depends on the vehicle's transmission type: ATF DW-1 for most automatic transmissions, Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manual transmissions, CVT Fluid or HCF-2 for Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), ATF Type 3.1 for 9-speed automatics, and ATF Type 2.0 for 10-speed automatics. Always check your owner's manual to confirm the specific fluid type for your vehicle model and year.
Automatic Transmission
- ATF DW-1: This is the current, all-purpose automatic transmission fluid recommended by Honda and has replaced the older ATF-Z1.
- ATF Type 3.1: Specifically designed for 9-speed automatic transmissions.
- ATF Type 2.0: Designed for 10-speed automatic transmissions.
Manual Transmission
- MTF: This is the fluid for all manual transmission Hondas.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- CVT Fluid: Used for first-generation CVTs, often found in models like the Civic Hybrid, CRZ, and Insight.
- HCF-2: The fluid for second-generation CVTs.
Do I have to use genuine Honda transmission fluid?
The simple answer is yes. It's all about corrosion, and Honda fluids will be the best fluid to minimize corrosion and keep your Honda reliable.
Can I use other fluids instead of Honda MTF?
If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says ''FOR GASOLINE ENGINES'' as a temporary replacement.
Does Idemitsu make Honda ATF?
Yes, Idemitsu makes transmission fluid specifically for Honda vehicles, and it is the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) supplier for Honda's transmission fluid. Idemitsu manufactures fluids like ATF Type H-Plus for older transmissions and CVTF Type H2 for Continuously Variable Transmissions, which are engineered to meet or exceed Honda's specifications.
- ATF Type H-Plus: This fluid is engineered for Honda and Acura automatic transmissions that use the old DW-1 or Z-1 fluids. It is designed to provide fuel economy and smooth shifting.
- CVTF Type H2: This fluid is specifically designed for Honda vehicles equipped with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) and is functionally equivalent to Honda's HCF-2 fluid.
- OEM Supplier: Idemitsu is the factory fill supplier for many Asian imports, including Honda, meaning the fluid they produce under their own brand is the same as what Honda puts in the cars at the factory.
