What transmission fluid does Toyota use?
Most Toyota automatics today use Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard). Some older or specialty transmissions require Dexron II/III, Mercon, or Type T-IV fluids, while CVTs use Toyota CVTF, and manual transmissions use the appropriate gear oil specified in the owner's manual.
Automatic transmissions: the current standard
For the majority of contemporary Toyota and Lexus vehicles with automatic transmissions, the recommended fluid is Toyota Genuine ATF WS. It’s designed to meet the requirements of Toyota's multi-gear automatics as well as hybrid systems.
- Toyota Genuine ATF WS — World Standard automatic transmission fluid used in most modern Toyota/Lexus automatics.
- Dexron II/III, Mercon, or Type T-IV — fluids historically specified for certain older Toyota transmissions; not generally used in new models unless a service bulletin or manual calls for them.
Conclusion: In most current Toyota models, ATF WS is the correct choice. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or the transmission code plate before filling.
CVT transmissions: dedicated Toyota CVTF
Toyota CVT-equipped cars use a dedicated CVT fluid designed for the continuously variable transmission. The standard choice is Toyota CVTF, which is tailored to the friction material and pulley system in Toyota CVTs.
- Toyota CVTF — Toyota's dedicated CVT fluid for most of its CVT-equipped vehicles.
- Regional or model variations — some markets or hybrid systems may specify a version of CVTF that aligns with the drivetrain.
Conclusion: Use Toyota CVTF for CVT models unless the manual specifies a different fluid. Verify compatibility via VIN or service data.
Manual transmissions: gear oil and specifications
Manual transmissions in Toyota vehicles require a dedicated gear oil meeting industry specs (usually GL-4). Many models use synthetic 75W-90 gear oil, but a few require different grades or specifications. Always follow the owner’s manual or the transmission code plate.
- GL-4 compatible gear oils — common requirement for Toyota manuals.
- Common viscosities — 75W-90 synthetic in many models; some may use 75W-85 or other specs.
Conclusion: For manuals, use the oil specified in your owner's manual; using the wrong oil can affect shifting and synchronizers.
Summary
To recap, Toyota’s transmission fluid choices vary by system: ATF WS is the default for most modern automatics; older units may call for Dexron II/III, Mercon, or Type T-IV; CVTs use Toyota CVTF; manuals require an appropriate GL-4 gear oil per the owner's manual. Always check the specific requirements for your vehicle’s year, model, and transmission code.
What transmission fluid for my car Toyota?
Toyota WS (World Standard) ATF
Toyota WS is the most modern and widely used ATF for newer Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles. This fluid is a low-viscosity, long-life fluid designed for transmissions that run at higher temperatures and require maximum efficiency.
What brand is Toyota ATF?
Product specifications
| Brand Name | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Toyota WS Genuine Toyota Lexus & Automatic Transmission Fluid WS ATF World Standard (4 Pack) |
| Item Height | 0.5 inches |
| Unit Count | 128.0 Fluid Ounces |
| Warranty Description | Toyota WS Genuine Toyota Lexus & Automatic Transmission Fluid WS ATF World Standard (4 Pack) |
What is the best ATF fluid for Toyota?
The best transmission fluid for a Toyota is the Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard) for most modern vehicles or Toyota Genuine T-IV for older models. For a specific vehicle, it is most accurate to check the owner's manual or the transmission dipstick for the exact type, as using the wrong fluid can cause damage.
This video explains what type of transmission fluid to use for Toyota vehicles: 58sAuto CareYouTube · May 29, 2025
For modern Toyotas (roughly 2006 and newer)
- Toyota ATF WS: This is the modern, low-viscosity fluid designed for current Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles.
- Official part number: You can find this fluid under the part number 00289-ATFWS from Toyota.
- Alternatives: Some premium aftermarket fluids are formulated to meet the WS standard, but it is crucial to ensure they are certified as WS-compliant, not just "suitable for use".
For older Toyotas (roughly pre-2006)
- Toyota ATF T-IV: This is the correct fluid for many older models and is the replacement for legacy fluids like T, T-II, and T-III.
- Check your manual: It's essential to verify the specific type required by your vehicle's manual.
For Toyota vehicles with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs)
- Specialized CVT fluid: Some Toyota CVTs require a specific CVT fluid, such as TC or FE, which is different from standard automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
- Check your manual: Always check your owner's manual to ensure you are using the correct type for your specific CVT.
You can watch this video to learn more about the differences between Toyota CVT fluids: 57sCar CareYouTube · Dec 28, 2023
Important considerations
- Use genuine fluids if possible: Toyota transmissions are designed with specific friction characteristics, and the genuine Toyota fluid is formulated to match these requirements precisely.
- Avoid universal fluids: Using a universal ATF can lead to issues like rough shifting, overheating, and accelerated wear because the friction modifiers may be different from what the transmission was designed for.
- Warranty: Using the wrong fluid could potentially void your transmission's warranty.
Does Toyota need special transmission fluid?
Using the right transmission fluid extends service life. Toyota recommends Toyota ATF for automatic models and Toyota CVT Fluid for vehicles with a CVT. Using non-approved fluids can cause premature wear and shifting issues.
