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What transmission fluid does a 4L60 take?

The 4L60 transmission, commonly found in various General Motors vehicles, requires the use of a specific type of transmission fluid. The recommended fluid for a 4L60 transmission is Dexron-VI or a fluid that meets the Dexron-VI specification.


Understanding the 4L60 Transmission


The 4L60 is a four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission that was first introduced in 1993. It is widely used in GM vehicles, including Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC models. The 4L60 is known for its durability and reliability, but it requires the proper maintenance and fluid to function correctly.


Recommended Transmission Fluid for the 4L60


The 4L60 transmission is designed to use Dexron-VI transmission fluid, which is a specific type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) formulated to meet the requirements of this transmission. Dexron-VI is a synthetic-based fluid that provides improved performance, better wear protection, and enhanced oxidation resistance compared to earlier Dexron formulations.


It is important to use the recommended Dexron-VI fluid, as using the wrong type of fluid can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and even damage to the transmission. Some key points about the 4L60 transmission fluid:



  • Fluid Type: Dexron-VI or a fluid that meets the Dexron-VI specification

  • Fluid Capacity: Approximately 12 to 13 quarts (11 to 12 liters)

  • Fluid Change Interval: Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer


It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for fluid type and change intervals to ensure the long-term health and performance of the 4L60 transmission.

Can you mix DEXRON VI with ATF 4?


Can MaxLife ATF be mixed with Dexron VI or does the fluid need to be purged prior to installing MaxLIfe ATF? Valvoline MaxLife ATF transmission fluid is 100 percent compatible with the DEXRON VI for mixing or flushing a system.



What transmission fluid does a 4L60 use?


Transmission Fluid

ManufacturerTransmission TypeTransmission Fluid
CADILLAC4L60EDEXRON III
CHEVROLET4L60EDEXRON III
ISUZU4L60EDEXRON III
OLDSMOBILE4L60EDEXRON III



What kind of transmission fluid does a 2003 Silverado 4L60E take?


General Motors recommends Dexron-VI ATF transmission fluid for use in all Chevy Silverado 1500 automatic transmissions.



Is ATF the same as Dexron?


DEXRON is the trade name for a group of technical specifications for automatic transmission fluid (ATF) created by General Motors (GM). The name was first registered as a trademark and later evolved into a brand of GM.



Is a 4L60 and 4L60E the same?


The TH700R4 was renamed "4L60" (RPO MD8) following the new General Motors naming convention when the electronic version, 4L60E (RPO M30), was phased in as the 4L60 was being phased out. This happened in 1993 for trucks, vans, and SUVs, and 1994 for rear wheel drive passenger cars.



What is the 4L60E compatible with?


The 4L60-E is found in nearly every GM rear-wheel-drive application, including the C/K Truck, Sonoma, Jimmy, Tahoe, Yukon, Astro, Safari, Suburban, Bravada, Firebird, Camaro and Corvette.



Is Dexron VI compatible with Dexron III?


It is also backward compatible and recommended for use in transmissions for which previous Dexron fluids were specified.



What type of transmission fluid does GM use?


Dexron VI
Valvoline Dexron VI/Mercon LV ATF is the full-synthetic automatic transmission fluid that has been uniquely engineered to meet and exceed the requirements of the General Motors Dexron VI specification and is officially licensed and approved by GM.



What kind of transmission fluid does a 2001 4L60E take?


Dex VI will be a great choice, but the standard D/M fluids will work fine too. It's really your choice. Mixing them won't do any harm, though Dex VI may clean marginally better.



Why do 4L60 fail?


The drive shell is subject to extreme heat, pressure, and wear over time and can eventually crack or break down if not maintained properly. Additionally, old or low quality fluid can cause it to erode prematurely and lead to a failed transmission.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.