Dexron Type ATF Power Steering Fluid For Vehicles

Automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) are part and parcel of vehicles’ engines. They’re responsible for the normal function of the power steering and transmission systems, no doubt.

Notably, the Dexron type ATF Power steering fluid is now the top-notch type with outstanding features compared to the PS Fluids.

Yet not everyone out there knows well about this ATF type. If you are in the same boat, worry not! Here comes a well-rounded post unveiling the ins and outs of Dexron ATFs.

Take a closer look there! 

What Is Dexron Type ATF Power Steering Fluid?

Dexron Type ATF Power Steering Fluid

Dexron Type Auto Transmission Fluid power steering fluids are from the General Motors brand, used for lubricating, cooling, and against vehicle transmission rust.

Without ATF, a transmission can overheat besides debris pervasion, ending up with entirely worn-out or even damaged parts.

The market witnessed the domination of four prime types of Dexron, ranging from Power Steering fluid ATF Dexron, Dexron 2D fluid, Dexron 2E to Dexron II power steering fluid.

Still, they now make room for Dexron 3 and Dexron 6, which are more prevailing than ever.

Especially, Dexron 6 is the newest developed by GM ATF in 2006. It steals the hearts of many six-speed automatic car owners.

This advanced Dexron full synthetic power steering fluid goes well with tighter inner tolerances and better shear, making it prevalent, even outweighing the Dexron ATF 3.

What Is The Difference Between Mercon 5 and Dexron 3?

Most of the time, the Mercon 5 and Dexron 3 are interchangeable, and many models accept both of them.

Dexron 3 Power Steering Fluid

Dexron 3 is a power steering and automatic transmission fluid type. As stated, it’s manufactured by GM ATF. This one now stands out in the car-based community.

It does the trick in countless General Motor cars, Isuzu, Opel, Holden, Hydramatic transmissions, and any vehicle it specializes in.

Dexron 3 even goes well with previous systems designed for earlier fluid types like Dexron 2 power steering fluid.

Mercon 5 Power Steering Fluid

Mercon came to life in 1987 by Ford company, with its license ceased in 2007. In the same year, Mercon 5 was announced as the replacement for the Mercon ATF.

It fits all trannies designed for it and former car models used Mercon. You can use it in all Ford ATF, except Ford Type F.

This Mercon 5 fluid type includes extra friction modifiers, creating more slippery than Mercon.

It makes sense to check out the car owners manual in advance to pick the best ATF types.

Can I Mix Dexron 3 With Dexron 6?

Yes. It is OK to mix Dexron ATF 3 with Dexron ATF 6 with no shifting issue, provided that you filter and alter the drained automotive fluid appropriately.

To explain, Dex 6 works wonders with the former transmission system, albeit a bit pricey. Yet, it doesn’t mean that the current transmission design gets along well with the earlier type of fluid.

In other words, any model that runs well with Dexron 3 can do the same with Dex-3-and-6 blending, notably Acura/Honda and Toyota trannies.

Towards remaining vehicles, you can have a test to ensure the possibility of the two-fluid combination.

What Is The Great Frequency For Dexron Power Steering Fluid Replacement?

The power steering fluid needs, types, and the remaining automotive fluids in the vehicles determine the answer.

It’s better to follow the instructions or guidelines of the vehicle manufacturer. On average, the placement is conducted every 50,000 miles or five years, depending on which condition comes first.

Some signals show it’s time to change the power steering fluids: the liquid is no longer light in color or has dirt and impurities inside.

In other cases, odd whining or moaning sounds can be an issue. When you spot leaking liquid, check out the auto trans fluid level and replace it if needed.

Ensure the level of fluid is enough for system operation. Otherwise, drained fluid will have a toll on your power steering pump, entailing a pricey repair or change.

What Can Happen If I Use The Wrong Dexron Power Steering Fluid?

The consequences of overfilled power steering fluid and wrong fluid are ungodly.

Wrong fluid added to the transmission system triggers erratic power steering issues, transmission slipping, rough shifting, improper function, engaging gear, fluid breakdown, and even breaking down in cold weather.

The tranny will show signs of slipping, poor shifting, and terminally corrupt with the wrong fluid.

In some cases, the manual transmissions will get poor synchronizer rings to match the inner gears. Plus, the wrong fluid causes a decline in productivity due to the stiff or even failed shifter.

Finally, the unpleasant noise is the result of damaged or worn-out transmission. Wrong fluid is also a contributor to transmission slipping when cold. Be cautious with the wrong fluid before too late!

Can I Employ Transmission Fluid In A Power Steering Pump?

Yes, to most motor systems (Chrysler, Ford, and General Motor vehicles), but not for ones designed for power steering fluid only.

While you are fond of the automatic transmission, read the service manual to ensure that your car fits your desired ATF.

Power steering pumps can adopt transmission fluid in urgent cases as they are both hydraulic fluids. Still, the system may show signs of deterioration for a while without the correct fluids.

Though it might somewhat impair the pump’s hydraulic valve, your vehicles can make the most of ATFs thanks to the included detergents that keep the transmission system clean.

Wrapping Up

What Is The Difference Between Mercon 5 and Dexron 3?

When you apply ATFs to your engine, never skip the vehicle’s manual carefully before applying Dexron Type ATF power steering fluid.

Last but not least, you can optimize productivity and avoid many unexpected things instead of original fluid. Let’s come to the best automatic transmission fluid option.

Be mindful that the vehicles need compatible trans fluid formulation at times for best performance. Hence, ensure you use the correct type fluid for the system to prolong the car’s lifespan.

I hope this article will help you out of your problems, please forward it to other which have same issues. Thank you for reading.

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