What fluid does a 5 speed manual transmission take?

Most 5-speed manual transmissions use gear oil, not engine oil or automatic transmission fluid. The exact specification varies by vehicle, but common choices include 75W-90 gear oil meeting GL-4 or GL-5 standards. Always confirm with the vehicle’s manual or the fill cap for the precise specification.

Fluid types commonly used in 5-speed manuals

Below is a snapshot of fluids you might encounter in a typical 5-speed manual. The correct choice depends on the car’s design and the manufacturer’s guidance.

• 75W-90 gear oil that meets GL-4 or GL-5 specifications (can be mineral or synthetic)


• 80W-90 gear oil (alternative viscosity often used in older manuals)


• Synthetic 75W-90 gear oils marketed for manuals (often chosen for longer change intervals or performance applications)


• Model-specific fluids for certain makes (some cars specify a particular brand or synthetic formulation)


• Rare cases: certain older or specialized transmissions may call for a manual-transmission fluid (MTF) or a non-gear-oil spec; always verify against the manual

Concluding note: While 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5 gear oil is the most common choice for many five-speed manuals, the exact spec varies by vehicle. Verify the official specification before buying or filling.

How to determine the right specification for your car

To avoid guessing, follow these steps to locate the precise fluid specification for your vehicle.

1. Check the owner's manual or the maintenance section for the exact gear oil specification (viscosity and GL rating) and any model-specific guidance.


2. Inspect the transmission fill cap or service sticker under the hood, as some cars list the required fluid there.


3. Consult the manufacturer’s service bulletins or the dealership parts catalog for your exact model and year.


4. When in doubt, contact a qualified technician or the dealership with your VIN to ensure you get the correct fluid.

Conclusion: The precise specification is linked to your vehicle’s design. Rely on the official documentation or a trusted technician rather than generic advice.

Maintenance tips and best practices

Keeping the transmission properly lubricated involves careful filling, level checks, and timely changes. Here are practical guidelines to follow.

1. Operate the vehicle long enough to warm the oil before checking or draining, as warm oil flows more easily and readings are more accurate.


2. Use the right amount: fill until the fluid reaches the designated level on the fill hole or until a specified mark is reached, then reinstall the fill plug.


3. When changing, drain completely, replace the drain plug with a new washer if required, and refill with the recommended fluid type and quantity specified by the manufacturer.


4. Inspect for leaks around seals and the fill/drain plugs during and after replacement, and address any issues promptly.

Conclusion: Regularly checking and using the correct fluid protects gear teeth and helps maintain smooth shifting, preventing premature wear and costly repairs.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Avoid guessing the fluid type based on looks or brand familiarity. Using the wrong viscosity or GL rating can lead to improper lubrication, shifting issues, or seal damage. Always rely on the vehicle’s documentation and proper service procedures.

Summary

In short, a typical 5-speed manual transmission uses gear oil around 75W-90, with GL-4 or GL-5 specifications, though exact requirements vary by model. Engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, or incorrect viscosity can cause poor shifting and wear. The safest approach is to consult the owner's manual, check the fill cap, or ask a qualified technician to confirm the precise specification for your car. Regular maintenance, correct fluid choice, and proper fill levels contribute to smoother gears and longer transmission life.

How many quarts does a 5 speed transmission take?

4.7 pints according to manual. Re-build or drain/refill? Refill will hold around 2.2 quarts.

What kind of fluid do I put in a manual transmission?

A manual transmission requires specific manual transmission fluid (MTF), often a type of gear oil, that meets the manufacturer's specifications, typically a viscosity like 75W-90 or 80W-90 and a specific GL rating (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5). While some older manuals might use different oils, including motor oil or even automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as recommended by the manufacturer, using the wrong fluid can cause improper shifting, wear, or damage. Always consult your owner's manual to find the correct fluid for your vehicle. 
What to look for

• Viscosity: Check the recommended viscosity, such as 75W-90 or 80W-90, which indicates the fluid's thickness. 
• GL rating: Pay attention to the Gear Lubricant (GL) rating, as GL-4 and GL-5 are common for modern manual transmissions. 
• Manufacturer recommendation: The most crucial step is to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact type of fluid recommended. 
• Specialty fluids: Some modern vehicles require specific formulations like synchromesh fluid, which is designed for transmissions with synchromesh systems. 

Why the right fluid is important

• Lubrication: Manual transmission fluid lubricates the gears, protecting them from wear and heat. 
• Smooth shifting: The correct fluid ensures smooth gear engagement and shifts. 
• Compatibility: Using the wrong type of fluid can lead to poor performance or damage the internal components of your transmission. 

Can you use 75W90 instead of 75W80?

No, you should not use 75W-90 instead of 75W-80 unless your vehicle's owner's manual explicitly allows it, as 75W-90 is a thicker oil that can cause issues like poor shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to components. It is best to use the specific viscosity recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to avoid harm and maintain optimal performance. 
Reasons to avoid using 75W-90 instead of 75W-80

• Viscosity differences: 75W-90 has a higher viscosity (it's thicker) than 75W-80, especially when cold. This can lead to rough shifting, slower gear changes, and a less smooth driving experience. 
• Component wear: A thicker oil may not flow as easily through the transmission, potentially causing increased wear on components like the main shaft and synchronizers. 
• Additive compatibility: Some 75W-80 fluids are formulated without specific additives (like sulfur/phosphorus) that are present in many 75W-90 oils and could damage sensitive transmission parts, particularly "yellow metal" components like bronze synchronizers. 
• Fuel efficiency: Using a thicker oil can reduce fuel efficiency due to increased friction within the transmission. 

What to do instead

• Consult your owner's manual: The most important step is to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact fluid specification recommended by the manufacturer. 
• Choose the correct fluid: If 75W-80 is the recommended viscosity, use a high-quality 75W-80 fluid that meets the other specifications, such as GL-4 or GL-5, as required by your vehicle. 
• Use a reputable brand: When in doubt, stick to the fluid type recommended by the manufacturer or choose a product from a reputable brand that explicitly states it is compatible with your vehicle's requirements. 

What fluid does a T5 manual transmission take?

A T5 manual transmission typically uses Dexron II or III automatic transmission fluid (ATF), or a manual transmission fluid (MTF) that is compatible with specific T5 models, such as TREMEC HP-MTF or Valvoline Synchromesh. Avoid using conventional gear oil (80w90) in most T5s, as it can damage the blocking rings and cause shifting problems. 
Recommended fluids

• Dexron II/III ATF: The most common recommendation for the original T5, especially for break-in periods or in older models, according to Modern Driveline, the Factory Five Forums, and TREMEC Blog. 
• TREMEC HP-MTF: A modern high-performance manual transmission fluid that is compatible with many T5 models, especially those produced by TREMEC, according to TREMEC Blog and this Facebook post. 
• Valvoline Synchromesh or similar MTFs: Recommended as a good alternative, particularly if you want to improve shifting performance. These are specifically designed for manual transmissions and are compatible with the yellow metals (like bronze) found in many T5s, notes this Facebook post. 

Fluids to avoid

• Conventional gear oil (e.g., 80w90): Do not use this in a T5 transmission, as it can damage the blocking rings and lead to shifting issues, according to Modern Driveline, the Factory Five Forums, and CJ-8.com. 
• Do not mix different types of fluid: This can lead to poor performance and damage, according to the Factory Five Forums.