What is the gearbox oil capacity?
There is no universal gearbox oil capacity; it depends on the vehicle and the type of transmission. The exact amount your car needs is listed in the owner's manual or the manufacturer’s service specifications. This article explains typical ranges and how to locate the precise figure for your model.
Understanding what determines capacity
Gearbox oil capacity is governed by several factors, including transmission type (manual, automatic, CVT, or DCT), the size of the oil pan, the presence of a torque converter, and whether you’re performing a drain‑and‑fill versus a complete flush. Real-world capacity can also vary depending on installation specifics and model year.
Typical ranges by transmission type
The following ranges provide a rough guide. Actual figures vary widely by model and year, so use these as a starting point and verify with official specs for your car.
- Manual transmissions (MT): typically about 1–3 liters (1–3 quarts).
- Traditional automatic transmissions (torque-converter): commonly around 4–12 liters (4–13 quarts), depending on pan size and gear count.
- Dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) and automated manuals: often in the 4–9+ liters range, varying with design and capacity.
- Continuously variable transmissions (CVT): usually around 5–8 liters, though capacity can differ by model.
Note: Some vehicles may use separate fluids for different systems or require extra capacity for hydraulic or electronic components. Always verify the exact spec for your model.
How to find the exact capacity for your vehicle
To determine the precise gearbox oil capacity for your car, follow these steps:
- Check the owner’s manual or the maintenance section of the manufacturer’s website for the “transmission fluid capacity” entry.
- Look up your vehicle year, make, model, and transmission type on official support portals or service manuals.
- Use VIN-based service databases or repair databases (where available) to pull the exact specification for your specific VIN.
- If in doubt, contact a dealer or a qualified repair shop with your VIN to confirm the figure.
- When performing a drain-and-fill, note the amount drained and the amount you add; for a proper level, follow the method described in your manual (hot/cold measurement, dipstick method, or electronic level check).
- Confirm the correct oil specification (for example, the recommended ATF type or gear oil grade) to ensure compatibility and proper lubrication.
Having the exact capacity and the correct oil specification helps ensure a proper fill and reliable transmission operation. If you’re planning a service, double-check the spec for your exact model year and transmission variant.
Practical maintenance tips
Always use the recommended oil type and viscosity for your transmission. Overfilling can cause foaming and pressure issues; underfilling can lead to inadequate lubrication and overheating. If you’re uncertain, consult the service manual or a professional technician before starting a drain-and-fill or flush procedure.
Summary
The gearbox oil capacity is not universal and varies by vehicle and transmission type. Use the owner's manual or manufacturer specifications to obtain the exact figure for your model. As a guide, manuals typically hold about 1–3 liters, automatics about 4–12 liters, DCTs around 4–9 liters, and CVTs about 5–8 liters, but these ranges are broad and model-dependent. Always verify the precise capacity and oil specification for your car, and follow the recommended service procedure to maintain transmission health.
How many qt of transmission fluid?
The amount of transmission fluid needed varies significantly, but a standard automatic transmission typically requires 8–20 quarts for a full fill, while a manual transmission needs 2–9 quarts. A "service fill" after a simple drain-and-fill for an automatic transmission usually requires less, often around 3–5 quarts, while a full "dry fill" of an overhauled automatic transmission requires more. Always check your owner's manual or a service manual for the exact capacity of your vehicle.
Automatic transmissions
- Dry fill (overhauled transmission): 8–20 quarts, depending on the vehicle and specific transmission model.
- Service fill (after filter change): 3–5 quarts is a common amount to replace, but it is best to replace only the amount that was drained out.
Manual transmissions
- Capacity: 2–9 quarts, depending on the vehicle model.
How to determine the exact amount
- Owner's manual: The most reliable source for the exact capacity is your vehicle's owner's manual.
- Service manual: A service manual will provide the specific amount for both dry and service fills.
- Check the dipstick: After adding fluid, start the engine, run it through all gears, and then check the level on the dipstick to ensure it is correct. You can add more fluid incrementally until the level is correct.
- Measure what you drained: A good method for a drain-and-fill is to measure the amount of fluid that drained out and replace it with the same amount of new fluid.
How much oil to put in a gearbox?
Keep the oil up to the upper limit shown on the dipstick, but be careful not to top up beyond this mark. If you have the more usual filler-and-level plug on the side of the gearbox, consult your car handbook to identify it correctly.
How to know gearbox capacity?
How To Check Your Gearbox Oil Level
- Start by parking your vehicle on a flat surface.
- Activate the brake.
- Leave it idle until the engine warms.
- After a few minutes, open the vehicle bonnet.
- Find the gear oil dipstick.
- Pull out the dipstick.
- Wipe it clean with a cloth or towel.
- Reinsert the dipstick.
Can you overfill gearbox oil?
Don't overfill a sealed gearbox, even by a little. It makes it into an unsealed gearbox.
