Dektron 2 or 3 in the power steering: fill it in or hold off?

Dexron 2 and 3 fluids , which are used in power steering and automatic transmissions, lie in their fluidity rates, type of base oil, and temperature characteristics. In general terms, we can say that Dextron 2 is an older product released by General Motors, and accordingly, Dextron 3 is a newer one. However, you cannot simply replace the old fluid with a new one. This can only be done by observing the manufacturer’s tolerances, as well as the characteristics of the liquids themselves.

Divinol ATF Dexron II D. Dextron 2 for automatic transmission

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Types and types of Dexron liquids

Let's start with the fact that today you can find fluids ranging from Dexron 2, Dexron IID or Dexron 3 to Dexron 6. In fact, each type is a separate generation of transmission fluid, widely known as Dexron. The development belongs to the concern General Motors (GM), which in 1968 created its own transmission fluid for automatic transmissions, Dexron.

• Let's return to Dextron. After the first generation of such fluids entered the market, just 4 years later GM was forced to develop the second generation of Dextron.

The reason is that the first generation actively used whale oil as a friction modifier, and the transmission oil itself on this basis quickly became unusable due to high heat in the automatic transmission. A new formula was supposed to solve the problems, which became the basis of Dexron IIC.

In fact, whale oil was replaced with jojoba oil as a friction modifier, and the product's heat resistance was also improved. However, with all the advantages, the composition had one serious drawback - severe corrosion of automatic transmission elements.

For this reason, they quickly stopped using Dexron IID, releasing the product Dexron IIE, filled with active additives that work against moisture and corrosion. It is noteworthy that this generation of liquid has become semi-synthetic.

Moreover, having convinced itself of its effectiveness, after a short period of time the concern released a fundamentally new liquid with improved performance characteristics. First of all, while earlier generations were mineral or semi-synthetic based, the new Dexron 3 ATF was made from a synthetic base.

This solution turned out to be resistant to high heat, had excellent lubricating and protective properties, and remained fluid at low temperatures (up to -30 degrees Celsius). It was the third generation that became truly universal and began to be widely used in automatic transmissions, power steering, etc.

• Today, the latest generation is Dexron VI (Dextron 6), developed for the six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 automatic transmission. The product has improved lubricating properties, reduced kinematic viscosity, resistance to foaming and corrosion.

Moreover, the manufacturer positions such a liquid as a composition that does not require replacement. In other words, such oil is poured into the automatic transmission for the entire service life of the unit.

• Please note that different manufacturers began to produce automatic transmission fluids quite a long time ago, and the products are produced under the Dexron brand. As for GM, the concern has been producing only this type of fluid since 2006, while other oil manufacturers continue to produce Dextron IID, IIE, III, etc.

As for GM, the corporation is not responsible in any way for the quality and properties of fluids of previous generations, although they continue to be produced according to the Dexron standard. It can also be noted that today Dexron fluids can be standard or HP (high performance) for automatic transmissions that operate in difficult conditions.

There are also Dexron Gear Oils for differentials and clutches, Dexron Manual Transmission Fluid for manual transmissions, Dexron Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid for dual-clutch robotic gearboxes, Dextron for power steering, as well as other units and mechanisms. There is information that General Motors is testing the latest generation of fluid for use as a transmission oil for CVTs.

The difference between Dexron and ATF

In terms of the interchangeability of fluids, car owners also wonder not only about the compatibility of Dexron 2 3, but also what is the difference between Dextron 2 oil and ATF. In fact, this question is incorrect, and here's why... The abbreviation ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid, which means automatic transmission fluid. That is, all transmission fluids used in automatic transmissions fall under this definition.

As for Dexron (regardless of generation), it is just a name for a group of technical specifications (sometimes referred to as a brand) for automatic transmission fluids created by General Motors (GM). This brand produces not only fluids for automatic transmissions, but also for other mechanisms. That is, Dexron is a generic name for specifications that have been adopted over time by various manufacturers of their respective products. Therefore, you can often find the designations ATF and Dexron on the same canister. After all, in fact, Dextron fluid is the same transmission fluid for automatic transmissions (ATF). And they can be mixed, the main thing is that their specifications belong to the same group. As for the question of why some manufacturers write Dexron on canisters and others ATF, the answer comes down to the same definition. Dexron fluids are manufactured to General Motors specifications, while others are manufactured to other manufacturers' specifications. The same applies to the color marking of canisters. It in no way indicates a specification, but only informs (and not always) what type of oil was used as a base oil in the production of a particular transmission fluid presented on the counter. Typically, red means that the base used was mineral oil, and yellow means that it was synthetic.

Application area

ATF Dextron was originally developed for automatic transmissions. Oil in an automatic transmission performs different functions: transmits torque, creates pressure on the clutches and guarantees proper friction, lubricates parts, protects against corrosion, and removes heat. When choosing ATP, you need to check the product for the Dextron specification.

Dextron specifications indicate the optimal viscosity index for each type of ATP. High viscosity oils increase the slippage of friction discs and increase wear on the rubbing parts of automatic transmissions. With low viscosity, the protective film on bearings and gears is thin and breaks quickly. Bullies appear. The seals are deformed. Automatic transmission fluid is leaking.

The operating viscosity of ATF Dexron III H is in the range of 7 - 7.5 cSt at 100℃. This indicator guarantees that Dextron 3 oil in automatic transmissions will last a long time without replacement, maintaining its performance properties.

ATF Dexron III H is used in 4 and 5-speed automatic transmissions manufactured before 2006. The boxes are installed in cars, commercial vehicles, and buses.

With the expansion of the functionality of the transmission fluid, the scope of application has also increased:

• hydraulic systems: power steering, hydrostatic transmission, hydraulic drive, hydropneumatic suspension, hydraulic brake system;
• gearboxes for construction, agricultural and mining equipment;
• industrial equipment.

The requirements for power steering oil are similar to those of automatic transmissions, so Opel, Toyota, Kia, Geely allow the use of ATF Dexron in the hydraulic booster. BMW, VAG, Renault, Ford recommend pouring a special power steering fluid - PSF, CHF.

The use of ATP Dextron is divided into climatic zones:

• for regions with winter temperatures down to -15℃, Dextron II D is suitable;
• with temperatures up to -30℃ - Dextron II E;
• with temperatures up to -40℃ - Dextron III H.

Characteristics of Dexron 2 and 3 oils for power steering, is it possible to pour and mix?

Hydraulic power steering is designed to make steering easier, as well as dampen vibrations and shocks that occur on the steering wheel. In order for it to last a long time and work stably, it is necessary to regularly change the oil in it and monitor its quality. The article discusses Dextron oils, including Dextron 3 for power steering, and gives their description, advantages and disadvantages.

Description of the liquid

The power steering design consists of several mechanisms, which are visible in the diagram.

Power steering diagram for cars

The entire mechanism is washed by a special hydraulic fluid (PSF).

It has the following functions:

• transmits pressure from the pump to the piston;
• has a lubricating effect;
• has anti-corrosion properties;
• cools the components and mechanisms of the unit.

Popular brands specifications

Mannol Dexron 3

Mannol Dexron 3 automatic is considered a multi-purpose oil for automatic transmissions. This Manol mixture is also used in power steering, hydraulic clutches, and spinning mechanisms.

Just like all, without exception, Dextron oils have a reddish tone. The manufacturer has worked hard on the combination of additives and synthetic components, the components of which help improve the fractional characteristics at the time of gear shifting.

Oil from a manufacturer in Germany has high low-temperature characteristics, excellent antioxidant properties, and stable chemical composition throughout the entire period of operation. It is not advisable to use copper elements as a lubricant; the liquid is absolutely neutral to all other alloys and materials.

The products have all possible tolerances:

• ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14, ALLISON C4/TES 389, GM DEXR. III H/G/F, FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H and others.

Castrol DEXRON

Castrol DEXRON is a low-viscosity mixture for automatic transmissions and is designed for use in modern gearboxes. It has proven itself to be the mixture with the greatest fuel economy.

Castrol production is established in Germany. The oil consists of high-quality base mixtures with an optimal set of additives. Has positive feedback from GM and Ford management, exceeds the requirements of the Japanese JASA 1A specification. In cases where it is not possible to purchase Dextron ATF for the Japanese, you can safely use oil from Castrol - Dexron 6.

Meets all major standards:

• Honda/Acura, Hyundai/Kia SP, Nissan Matic, Suzuki AT Oil, Mitsubishi SP, Mazda ATF, Toyota and Subaru.

Mobil 3 ATF oil

Mobil ATF 320 Premium oil has a mineral structure. Used in power steering and automatic transmissions with GM Dexron 3 approval standard.

Mobil absolutely complies with all types of transmission seals in automatic transmission mechanisms. Compatible with all red liquids of the Dexron III specification. The composition is not recommended for use on northern continents, where temperatures drop to -30 degrees. Mobil oil with Dextron No. 3 specification can also be used in power steering mechanisms.

Meets Ford Mercon, ATF Dex standards. III, ZF TE-ML and Dex. 3

Motul Multi ATF

Motul Multi ATF is 100% synthetic fluid. A universal oil designed for automatic transmissions manufactured since 2000.

It is also possible to use it in hydrostatic transmissions, power steering, and other mechanisms (including ATF) that support standard Mercon and Dexron. Motul occupies a leading position in chemical composition and viscosity, temperature performance, stability functions, and meets all requirements from GM.

It is not recommended for use in hydraulic power steering automatic transmissions, since the fluid was created specifically for automatic transmissions. Has many approvals and positive reviews.

It has proven itself as a reliable gear oil. The only drawback of the Motul Multi premium mixture is its price.

Meets the basic standards of MAZDA, CHRYSLER, JAGUAR, RENAULT Elfmatic, Renaultmatic D2 D3, Acura/HONDA, Lexus/TOYOTA ATF, Audi, GM DEXRON 2 and 3, FORD, BMW and MITSUBISHI.

Description of the liquid

The power steering design consists of several mechanisms, which are visible in the diagram.

Power steering diagram for cars

The entire mechanism is washed by a special hydraulic fluid (PSF).

It has the following functions:

• transmits pressure from the pump to the piston;
• has a lubricating effect;
• has anti-corrosion properties;
• cools the components and mechanisms of the unit.

Thanks to the power steering oil, which circulates in a closed circuit, the created pressure is transferred from the pump to other components of the unit. When high pressure is created in the pump, PSF enters the low pressure zone where the SGC pistons are located. The cylinder is connected to the steering wheel rack using a spool. Depending on the position of the steering wheel, the spool directs oil, making it easier to turn the steering wheel.

An important function of PSF is to remove excess heat from mechanisms. In addition, acting as a lubricant, it reduces friction between moving components. Anti-corrosion additives in the composition prevent rust from forming inside the mechanism.

Compound

PSFs are divided into three types:

• mineral;
• semi-synthetic;
• synthetic.

Mineral ones contain 97% naphthenes and paraffins, the rest are additives that impart certain properties. Semi-synthetics contain both mineral and synthetic components. They have a longer service life and better performance. Synthetic PSF contains polyesters, hydrocracked petroleum fractions, and polyhydric alcohols. In addition, they contain additives that improve its properties.

PSF contains the following additives:

• to reduce friction between parts;
• against corrosion processes;
• viscosity stabilizing;
• acidity stabilizing;
• giving color;
• preventing foaming;
• to protect rubber parts.

When choosing power steering oil, you should pay attention to the composition and technical characteristics (video author - Vladislav Chikov).

Advantages and disadvantages

Each type of working fluid has its own advantages and disadvantages:

Dextron red

Interchangeability and miscibility

The manufacturer introduced the qualification of power steering fluids by color by adding coloring pigments to their composition: red, yellow and green. Red power steering oils are developed according to General Motors standards; they are called Dextrons.

Advantages and disadvantages

Eneos ATF DEXRON-II lubricant has its positive and negative sides. Benefits include:

• protection of the transmission from friction and rapid wear;
• fuel efficiency improves;
• vibration in the engine and gearbox is reduced;
• improved viscosity characteristics, promote rapid pumping and lubrication of parts; see;
• with the help of additives and impurities, characteristics such as anti-corrosion, anti-foaming and stability have been achieved;
• the gear engages better and the clutches work softer;
• excellent fluidity at low temperatures.

How to understand that this is a fake ZIC ATF

Automatic gearbox oil ZIC ATF Dexron 6 is widely known to car enthusiasts, and therefore can be counterfeited quite often.
In order to understand whether this oil is original or not, you need to pay attention to the following distinctive features of ZIC ATF Dexron 6:

1. There is a protective film on the very neck of the canister. It should fit snugly against the canister itself.
2. Inside the canister lid there are numerous “ZIC” inscriptions on the protective foil.
3. There must be a measuring scale on the side of the canister, which shows how much liquid is left in the container.
4. The embossed label with the inscription and the canister itself must be made of red plastic.
5. If you turn the package over, there should be a ZIC factory stamp on the bottom of the canister.
6. Presence of a hologram on the packaging.
7. When purchasing this oil, be sure to include documentation from the manufacturer (such as instructions, etc.).

Automatic transmission oils (ATF), when filled into the power steering, have the same functions as power steering fluids, the function of increasing the static friction of the clutches (depending on the material of the clutches) and the function of reducing friction wear.

Rating of ATF fluids for power steering 2022 – 2019

Mobil ATF 320 Premium fluid has a mineral composition. Place of application: automatic transmissions and power steering, which require Dexron III level oils. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Mixes without consequences with red ATP fluids of the Dextron 3 classification. Compatible with all conventional seal materials used in transmission mechanisms.

The best power steering fluids (PSF)

If you intend to fill the power steering with PSF fluid, then you will need to consider the following: the fluid acts as a working fluid that transmits pressure from the pump to the piston, a lubricating function, an anti-corrosion function, and heat transfer to cool the system.

The best power steering fluids Dextron

The Dexron family was originally developed for use as hydraulic oils in automatic transmissions. Therefore, sometimes these oils are called transmission oils, which creates confusion, since transmission oils used to mean thick oils of the GL-5, GL-4, TAD-17, TAP-15 brands for gearboxes and rear axles with hypoid gears. Hydraulic oils are much thinner than transmission oils. It's better to call them ATPs. ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid (literally - Fluid for automatic transmissions - i.e. automatic transmissions)

Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems that require fluid of DEXRON and MERCON standards, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III has easy fluidity in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where the use of DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids is recommended.

Differences between Dexron 2 and Dexron 3 and replaceability

The most popular questions regarding the operation of Dexron 2 and Dexron 3 transmission fluids are whether they can be mixed and whether one oil can be used instead of the other. Since improved characteristics should undoubtedly affect the improvement of the operation of the unit (be it power steering or automatic transmission).

Difference between Dexron 2 and Dexron 3 for automatic transmission

Before adding or mixing different types of transmission fluids, you need to find out what type of fluid the car manufacturer recommends using. Usually this information is in the technical documentation (manual); for some cars (for example, Toyota) it may be indicated on the gearbox dipstick.

Ideally, only a lubricant of the specified class should be poured into an automatic transmission, despite the fact that from class to class of liquid there have been improvements in characteristics that affect the duration of its operation. Also, do not mix, observing the frequency of replacement (if replacement is envisaged at all, since many modern automatic transmissions are designed to operate with one fluid throughout the entire period of their operation, only with the addition of fluid as it burns out).

Next, you need to remember that mixing liquids based on mineral and synthetic bases is allowed with restrictions! So, in an automatic transmission they can be mixed only if they contain the same type of additives. In practice, this means that you can mix, for example, Dexron II D and Dexron III only if they were produced by the same manufacturer. Otherwise, chemical reactions may occur in the automatic transmission with the formation of sediment, which will clog the thin channels of the torque converter, which can lead to its malfunction.

Typically, ATF fluids made with mineral oil are red in color, while fluids made with synthetic base oil are yellow. Similar markings apply to canisters. However, this requirement is not always observed, and it is advisable to read the composition on the packaging.

The difference between Dexron II D and Dexron II E is the temperature viscosity. Since the operating temperature of the first liquid is up to -15°C, and that of the second is lower, up to -30°C. In addition, synthetic Dexron II E is more durable and has more stable performance characteristics throughout its entire service life. That is, replacing Dexron II D with Dexron II E is allowed, however, provided that the machine will be used in severe frosts. If the air temperature does not drop below –15°C, then there is a risk that at high temperatures the more liquid Dexron II E will begin to seep through the gaskets (seals) of the automatic transmission, and may simply leak out of it, not to mention the wear of parts.

When replacing or mixing Dextron fluids, it is necessary to take into account the requirements of the automatic transmission manufacturer, whether it allows you to reduce friction when replacing ATF fluid, since this factor can negatively affect not only the operation of the unit, but also its durability, and given the high cost of the transmission, this is significant argument!

Replacing Dexron II E with Dexron II D is definitely unacceptable , since the first composition is synthetic and has a lower viscosity, and the second is mineral-based and has a higher viscosity. In addition, Dexron II E is characterized by greater efficiency of modifiers (additives). Thus, Dexron II E makes sense to use only in areas with significant frosts, especially considering that Dexron II E is much more expensive than its predecessor (due to more expensive manufacturing technology).

As for Dexron II, its replacement with Dexron III depends on the generation. Thus, the first Dexron III F was not much different from Dexron II E, so replacing the second “Dextron” with a third is quite acceptable, but not vice versa , for similar reasons.

As for Dexron III G and Dexron III H , they have even greater viscosity and a set of modifiers that reduce friction. This means that in theory they can be used instead of Dexron II, but with some limitations. In particular, if the equipment (automatic transmission) does not allow a decrease in the friction properties of the ATF fluid, replacing Dextron 2 with Dextron 3, as a more “advanced” composition, can lead to the following negative consequences:

• Increased gear shift speed. But it is precisely this advantage that distinguishes an automatic transmission with electronic control from an automatic transmission with hydraulic control.
• Jerks when changing gears. In this case, the friction discs in the automatic transmission will suffer, that is, wear out more.
• Problems may arise with the electronic control of the automatic transmission. If switching takes longer than expected, the electronic control systems can transmit information about the corresponding error to the electronic control unit.

In fact, it makes sense to use Dexron III transmission fluids only in northern regions, where the temperature of using a car with an automatic transmission can reach -40°C. If such a liquid is intended to be used in the southern regions, then information about approvals should be read separately in the documentation for the car, since this can only harm the automatic transmission .

Thus, the popular question about which is better - Dexron 2 or Dexron 3 in itself is incorrect, because the difference between them exists not only in terms of generations, but also in purpose. Therefore, the answer to it depends, firstly, on the oil recommended for the automatic transmission, and secondly, on the operating conditions of the machine. Therefore, you cannot blindly fill in “Dextron 3” instead of “Dextron 2” and think that this will only make the automatic transmission better. First of all, you need to follow the car manufacturer's recommendations!

Dextron 2 and 3 differences for power steering

As for replacing the power steering fluid, similar reasoning applies. However, there is one subtlety here, which is that for the power steering system, the viscosity of the fluid is not so important, because the temperature in the power steering pump does not rise above 80 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the tank or lid may have the inscription “Dexron II or Dexron III” on it. This is due to the fact that the power steering does not have thin torque converter channels, and the forces transmitted by the fluid are much less.

So, by and large, it is possible to replace Dextron 3 in the hydraulic booster instead of Dextron 2, although not in all cases. The main thing is that the fluid meets the criteria for low-temperature viscosity (a cold start with viscous oil, in addition to increased wear of the pump blades, is dangerous due to high pressure and leakage through the seals)! As for reverse replacement, it is not allowed for the reasons described above. Indeed, depending on the ambient temperature, the power steering pump may hum.

15 best power steering fluids

Review of the 15 best power steering fluids that can be filled. PSF, ATF, Dextron - which fluid and price is best for power steering. More details

When using power steering fluid, you should focus on the minimum pumping temperature and kinematic viscosity of the oil (for the longevity of its operation, it should not exceed 800 m㎡/s).

How to spot a fake

Using counterfeit oil can lead to unforeseen problems associated with the failure of expensive components. But the Zik company has taken care of protecting its products, so in order to purchase an original product you need to pay attention to the following packaging elements:

1. fluid intended for automatic transmissions always has a red label located on a red canister;
2. hologram with the company logo on the central inscription and stripe;

3. at the bottom of the canister there is an embossing with the ZIC logo and the date of production of the canister;
4. the cork is covered with a protective film;

5. Under the lid there is additional protection in the form of laminated foil.

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