What transmission fluid to use for a Honda CR-V?

The recommended transmission fluid for a Honda CR-V is Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 or an equivalent high-quality automatic transmission fluid. This fluid is specifically designed to meet the requirements of Honda's automatic transmissions and helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of the transmission system.

Understanding Transmission Fluid for Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is equipped with an automatic transmission, which requires a specific type of transmission fluid to function properly. Using the wrong fluid can lead to issues such as poor shifting, increased wear, and even transmission failure over time.

Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 is the factory-recommended transmission fluid for the CR-V. This fluid is formulated to provide excellent lubrication, wear protection, and thermal stability, which are essential for the proper operation of the vehicle's transmission.

Reasons to Use Honda Genuine ATF-Z1

• Compatibility: Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of Honda's automatic transmissions, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.


• Lubrication: The fluid's advanced formulation provides superior lubrication, reducing friction and wear within the transmission components.


• Thermal Stability: The fluid maintains its properties even under high-temperature conditions, helping to prevent thermal breakdown and ensure consistent performance.


• Manufacturer Recommendation: Using the recommended Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 fluid helps maintain the warranty and ensures that your CR-V's transmission is serviced according to the manufacturer's specifications.

It's important to note that using a non-Honda approved transmission fluid may void the warranty and could potentially lead to transmission issues down the line. Always refer to your owner's manual or consult with a Honda-certified technician for the recommended transmission fluid and service intervals for your CR-V.

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2015 Honda CRV take?

The correct transmission fluid for a 2015 Honda CR-V is Honda Genuine HCF-2 Fluid, which is specifically designed for the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in this model. You can also use a reputable aftermarket full synthetic CVT fluid that is explicitly labeled for compatibility with HCF-2 or meets Honda's HCF-2 specifications. Always check your owner's manual or consult a professional to confirm the exact requirements for your vehicle.
 
Key details

• Fluid type: HCF-2 is the specified fluid for the 2015 CR-V's CVT.
• Honda genuine fluid: The part number for the genuine Honda fluid is 08200-HCF2. 
• Aftermarket options: Look for full synthetic CVT fluids that explicitly state compatibility with Honda HCF-2 or mention it as a compatible application. 
• Important: Do not use standard automatic transmission fluids (ATF) like Dexron VI, as they are not formulated for the HCF-2 requirements of a CVT and can cause damage. 

What transmission fluid is compatible with Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V transmission fluid type depends on the model year and transmission type (CVT or traditional automatic), but common recommendations include Honda ATF DW-1 for most automatic transmissions or Honda HCF-2 for CVT transmissions. Always consult your owner's manual for the exact fluid specifications and recommended maintenance schedule. 
This video demonstrates how to change the transmission fluid on a 2017-2022 Honda CR-V with a CVT transmission: 48sVinnie TYouTube · Mar 25, 2024
Traditional automatic transmission

• Honda ATF DW-1: This is the genuine Honda fluid recommended for many automatic transmissions, including those in older CR-V models. 
• Alternatives: Some compatible alternatives like Mercon V were once recommended, but using the correct Honda fluid is always best for optimal performance and longevity. 

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Honda HCF-2: This fluid is specifically designed for Honda's CVT transmissions and is recommended for models equipped with this type of transmission. 
• Alternatives: Using generic automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a CVT can cause severe damage due to the different fluid requirements. 

Hybrid transmission (2023-2025 models)

• Honda HVF type one: Newer hybrid models use a specific fluid type, such as HVF type one, so it is crucial to use the correct fluid for your hybrid vehicle. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: The most accurate way to determine the correct fluid is to check your vehicle's owner's manual. 
• Maintenance interval: Check your owner's manual for the recommended service interval, but many CR-Vs require a transmission fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. 
• Avoid generic fluids: Using generic or incorrect fluids can lead to poor shifting, premature wear, and transmission damage. 
• Use a new crush washer: When changing the fluid, it's recommended to replace the crush washer on the drain plug to prevent leaks. 

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2017 Honda CRV take?

The transmission fluid for a 2017 Honda CR-V is Honda HCF-2, a fluid specifically designed for the vehicle's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Using the correct fluid is crucial, as using the wrong type can lead to performance issues like hesitation or shuddering. You can purchase genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid or compatible aftermarket options from an auto parts store or dealership. 
What to use

• Honda HCF-2: This is the genuine Honda fluid recommended for your 2017 CR-V's CVT. 
• Aftermarket alternatives: Some brands offer fluids that are compatible with Honda's HCF-2 specification. When choosing an alternative, look for one explicitly stating it is suitable for Honda HCF-2 applications. 

Important considerations

• Vehicle specific: The 2017 CR-V uses a specific CVT, not a traditional automatic transmission. This requires a specific fluid like HCF-2. 
• Potential issues with incorrect fluid: Using the wrong fluid can cause a vibration or other drivability problems. 
• How to check: If you are unsure about the fluid type, check your owner's manual or consult a dealership.
• Quantity: For a 2017 CR-V, a front-wheel drive model requires approximately 3.93.93.9 quarts, while an all-wheel drive model needs about 4.54.54.5 quarts. 

Do Hondas require special transmission fluid?

Yes, you should use Honda-specific transmission fluid to avoid potential damage, though some older manuals might have permitted temporary use of other fluids in specific situations. Honda transmissions have unique internal designs, and the company's fluids are specifically engineered to work with them, minimizing corrosion and ensuring proper shifting. Using non-Honda fluid can lead to erratic shifting, damage, and may not be covered by the warranty. 
Why Honda transmission fluid is recommended

• Unique design: Honda transmissions are built differently from many other brands, so third-party fluids may not function correctly. 
• Corrosion prevention: Honda fluids are formulated to work with the specific metal alloys and rubber compounds used in their transmissions to prevent corrosion and extend the life of the components. 
• Performance and longevity: Using the correct fluid ensures proper shifting and the longevity of your transmission. 
• Warranty protection: Using the recommended fluid can be necessary to ensure your new vehicle limited warranty is not voided. 

What to do if you can't get Honda fluid

• Consult your owner's manual: Some older manuals specified a temporary, alternative fluid if Honda fluid was unavailable, but this is not recommended for modern vehicles. 
• Avoid mixing: If you've already used a non-Honda fluid, it's best to do several drain-and-fill services with the correct Honda fluid to completely flush the old fluid out. 
• Consider it a risk: The small extra cost of Honda fluid is worth avoiding expensive repairs that could result from using an incompatible fluid.