7 Best Transmission Fluid For 4L60E

Reviewed By: Joses Peter

In the automobile industry, I’m a witness and work with several types and models of vehicle transmission. One of the top-quality transmissions I’ve ever worked with is the 4L60E. It is a shame that manufacturers no longer produce the 4L60E.

Even though this transmission is not manufactured anymore, I see thousands of cars out there equipped with the 4L60E. To preserve the health of this transmission, it is essential to take proper care of it and maintain it properly from time to time.

To maintain a transmission, there is no alternative to using transmission fluid as it allows the car to operate smoothly while improving its performance and longevity at the same time. If you take a look at the transmission fluid market, you will undoubtedly find hundreds of different products from various manufacturers.

Best Transmission Fluid For 4L60E

However, each and every product available in the market is formulated differently and it is essential to choose the right one for the transmission of your vehicle. There are quite a few fluids suitable for the 4L60E transmission. Therefore, in this guide, I’ll discuss the best transmission fluid for 4L60E transmissions.

Quick Comparison Of Top 5 4L60E Transmission Fluids

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS PRICE
Valvoline MaxLife Automatic Transmission Fluid
★ OUR #1 PICK! ★
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid
  • Size: 1-Gallon
  • Type: Full Synthetic Automatic
  • Compatibility: GM DEXRON-II, DEXRON III DEXRON-VI, Ford MERCON LV, Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-II, T-IV, WS, Honda/Acura, ATF-Z1, Nissan/Infiniti Matic-D, Matic-J, Matric-K, Matic-S, Hyundai/Kia SP-II, SP-III, SP-IV, SPH-IV, BMW 7045E, ETL 8072B, LA2634, LT71141, Allison C-4, Mercedes Benz NAG-1, Volvo 1161521, 1161540, 97340, 1273.41, and VW/Audi G-052-025-A2, G-052-162-A1, 4L60E.
  • Country of Origin: USA
ACDelco DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9395 Dexron VI Automatic Transmission
  • Size: 1-Gallon
  • Type: Automatic
  • Compatibility: GM transmission model years 2006 and newer calling for DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (replaces DEXRON III and DEXRON-II(E), or recommended for any other vehicle manufacturer that calls for DEXRON-VI, III, or II(E).
  • Country of Origin: USA
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid
Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV (ATF)
  • Size: 1-Quart
  • Type: Automatic
  • Compatibility: New and old GM automatic transmissions. It is fully back serviceable and can be used wherever DEXRON -II and/or DEXRON III are recommended.
  • Country of Origin: USA
Castrol TransMax DEX/MERC Automatic Transmission Fluid
Castrol 03520C TRANSMAX DEX/MERC ATF
  • Size: 1-Gallon
  • Type: Automatic
  • Compatibility: Ford and General Motors vehicles and any other vehicle where Dexron, Dexron-III, IIe, And II are recommended.
  • Country of Origin: USA
ACDelco 10-9243 DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9243
  • Size: 1-Quart
  • Type: Full Synthetic Automatic
  • Compatibility: GM transmissions model year 2006 and newer calling for DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (replaces DEXRON-III and DEXRON-II(E), or recommended for any other vehicle manufacturer that calls for DEXRON-VI, III, or II(E).
  • Country of Origin: USA

Best Transmission Fluid For 4L60E Reviews

Valvoline MaxLife Automatic Transmission Fluid

In the world of cars and vehicle maintenance, Valvoline is a popular and favorite name among the majority of automobile owners. The products formulated by the company have always lived up to the expectations of the customers, and the MaxLife Automatic Transmission Fluid does not disappoint.

Valvoline Maxlife Multi-Vehicle ATF

The company formulates this transmission oil using a 100 percent synthetic fluid base and high quality additives that improve the performance of the 4L60E by a notch. The synthetic base offers top-quality lubrication to the internal parts of a vehicle and allows them to provide smooth performance for a longer time.

The additives present in the transmission liquid prevent the gears and belts from damage due to friction, wear or tear, rusting, and so on. It also reduces the noise caused by the transmission during accelerating the vehicle and the risks of clutch breakdown while driving.

In addition to these, it reduces the number of trips to the fuel station by improving the fuel economy of the vehicle and also significantly improves the longevity of the transmission and the engine. This product is highly compatible with the majority of vehicles equipped with 4L60E transmission. Not only that, but it is also suitable for a lot of other car manufacturers and brands in the market.

Pros

  • Makes the transmission last for a longer period.
  • Prevents rusting, friction, clutch breakdown, and many more.
  • Improves fuel efficiency
  • Improves the driving experience by a notch

Cons

  • Leakage or slipping problems in a few models

ACDelco DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid

ACDelco is well-known in the world of transmission fluids due to its top quality performance and superb formulation. The Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid is one of the top transmission fluids by the manufacturer.

ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9395 Dexron VI

One of the best features of this fluid is that it offers extraordinary performance. It is a fully synthetic fluid that comes with quite a few top quality additives that provide protection to the transmission, allowing it to run efficiently for a longer period.

Advanced additive technology such as anti-noise, anti-shuddering, anti-foaming, and so on are present in this product and these agents help to reduce the noise and shuddering in the transmission. Not only that, but it reduces the chances of rusting and acid deposition and it makes it easier for the driver to shift the gears while driving.

A feature that significantly stands out with this product is its remarkable compatibility. It is suitable for the majority of car transmissions out there in the industry including the 4L60E. It also comes with backward compatibility, meaning it is 100 percent suitable for the majority of old transmission models or vehicles.

Pros

  • Protects the internal parts from overheating and damage
  • Great backward compatibility
  • Outstanding performance
  • Prevents the deposition of grime and acid

Cons

  • Does not work on CVT transmissions

Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid

Similar to the Valvoline MaxLife automatic transmission fluid discussed above, the Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV is also a fully synthetic transmission oil that ensures better automobile performance, protection, and so on.

Valvoline DEXRON VI/MERCON LV (ATF)

This fluid is popular for its high quality formulation and extraordinary service that elevates the excellent performance and lifespan of a vehicle. It works efficiently with the transmission by protecting it from damage caused by rusting, overheating, wear or tear, and many more.

This Valvoline Dex lubricates the internal parts of the transmission and prevents the accumulation of acid, grime, dirt, and similar contaminants. It also smoothens the gear transition and improves the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. This product also improves the heat stability of the transmissions, allowing them to operate more easily in regions where the temperature is usually on the colder side.

Not only that, but it works to prevent the gears and belts from overheating, causing them to function evenly for a longer time. When it comes to the compatibility of this product, many car owners find it a bit confusing. In simple words, this fluid works with most of the DEXRON or MERCON transmissions out there. However, it does not suit MERCON IV transmissions or CVT transmissions.

Pros

  • Highly suitable for the majority of DEXRON or MERCON transmissions
  • Improves thermal stability and longevity
  • Improves friction durability and damage protection
  • Smooths gear shifting

Cons

  • Does not work with MERCON IV or CVT transmissions

Castrol TransMax DEX/MERC Automatic Transmission Fluid

Even if you are not an expert in fluids or vehicle maintenance, you can never go wrong with Castrol. They are one of the biggest transmission oil manufacturers in the industry and are extremely popular because of its top-quality performance, efficiency, and so on. The Castrol TransMax DEX/MERC Automatic Transmission Fluid is also one of the best fluid for 4L60E formulated by the company.

Castrol 03520C TRANSMAX DEX/MERC ATF

The use of this transmission oil reduces the possibilities of a clutch breakdown along with the internal damage caused due to the collision between gears and other factors. In short, it provides the internal parts with a protective layer that improves the longevity of the transmission along with the performance.

In addition to these, it reduces the noise that the engine makes while accelerating and also allows the riders to enjoy a great drive and smooth gear shifting. Due to the additives present in the formula, the fuel economy and heat stability of the vehicle improves significantly, allowing the car to provide a more stable performance than usual.

When it comes to the compatibility of this fluid, users have provided mixed reactions as it works perfectly with the majority of car models but does not suit a few vehicles. However, it is completely compatible with the 4L60E transmission.

Pros

  • Provides topnotch performance
  • Improves fuel efficiency and thermal stability
  • Reduces the risks of clutch breakdown
  • Prevents noise, friction, rusting, etc.

Cons

  • Not suitable for a few vehicles

ACDelco 10-9243 DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid

Similar to the ACDelco fluid discussed above, the 10-9243 DEXRON VI transmission liquid is also a great product formulated by the company. It is a fully synthetic automatic Trans fluid and comes with some of the top agents that help to improve the functionality of the automobile.

ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9243 Transmission Fluid

The specialty of the best automatic transmission fluid 4L60E is that it provides a more efficient performance compared to the previous versions of this fluid. It coats the gears, belts, and other internal parts of a transmission with a protective layer to prevent damage. The damage to these internal parts is mainly caused by the collision between the moving pieces and preventing it is important to ensure better longevity of the vehicle.

The agents present in the fluid prevent oxidation and foaming inside the transmission, allowing the car to run more effortlessly on the road. It also offers high compatibility and works perfectly with the majority of transmissions, including the 4L60E. Like quite a few other transmission oils by ACDelco, this liquid also offers backward compatibility, meaning it works with some of the old car models.

Pros

  • Outstanding performance
  • Full protection against friction, wear or tear, etc.
  • Prevents foaming and oxidation
  • Supports backward compatibility

Cons

  • Leaking issues in a few vehicle models

Triax Multi-Purpose DEX III/MERC Automatic Transmission Fluid

The Triax Multi-Purpose DEX III/MERC automatic transmission fluid is a great formulation by the company that meets almost each and every transmission requirement in the market.

Triax Multi-Purpose ATF

This fluid ensures a better automobile performance by providing a top-quality protection to the internal parts or moving pieces in the transmission. It comes with Sure Shift Technology that mainly functions to make gear shifting easier and smoother for the drivers. You will experience a noiseless and flawless drive each time with this transmission fluid as it reduces noise while accelerating and prevents damage.

It offers great sealant protection to the soft metal parts present inside the transmission, allowing it to perform without any jerking or noise. The fluid is a synthetic blend but the presence of advanced additives makes up for the absence of a full synthetic base. These agents reduce foaming and provide full protection to the internal gears and belts, allowing the system to work at both hot and cold temperatures.

This product is 100 percent compatible with the 4L60E transmission along with several other types and models.

Pros

  • Sealant protection
  • Reduces operating temperatures
  • Prevents transmission foaming
  • Improves gear shifting experience

Cons

  • Subtle contamination in a few models

Red Line D4 Automatic Transmission Fluid

Last but not least, I’ll talk about one of the most popular transmission fluids by Red Line. The Red Line D4 automatic transmission fluid is one of the top choices in the market for vehicle manufacturers like BMW, Mazda, and many more.

Red Line D4 Automatic Transmission Fluid

This transmission liquid features some of the best additives in the market that provide full protection to the internal parts, gears, and belts of the transmission, allowing it to perform without any trouble. It comes with cleaning additives along with anti-foaming, anti-noise, and so on that improve the performance of the car by a notch. The agents prevent the deposition of contaminants and reduce the possibilities of damage in the transmission.

This transmission oil significantly increases the thermal stability of the vehicle by preventing foaming, which in turn reduces the operating temperatures of the engine. This means that the car can offer a flawless experience on the road even in regions where the temperature is low.

If you talk about the compatibility of this product, it is one of the best in the market. It is suitable for almost each and every brand in the market and is a great choice for the 4L60E transmissions. The majority of high-end car manufacturers recommend this fluid for their vehicles.

Pros

  • Extraordinary compatibility
  • Full transmission protection
  • Allows operation at low temperature
  • Prevents foaming and pollutant deposition

Cons

  • Not suitable for a few models

Things to Consider While Buying 4L60E Transmission Fluid

When it comes to choosing the best ATF for 4L60E, there are certain factors that you must take into account. These factors are:

Determine the Type of Transmission

There are hundreds of different transmission models available out there in the industry and not all vehicles use the same transmission. Each and every transmission has its own requirements and functions that make it unique from the others.

When it comes to choosing transmission fluid, you will have to take the type of transmission and its requirements into consideration. Check the automobile manual and see whether the manufacturers recommended any specific transmission oil or not.

Transmission Fluid Type

While buying a transmission fluid, you will have to choose between synthetic and conventional liquid. Conventional, also known as natural, offers a good overall transmission performance while providing full protection and improving the longevity of the vehicle.

On the other hand, synthetic transmission fluids come with some of the best additives and transmission technologies that provide much better and improvised performance than that provided by conventional fluids. Not only that, but it also lasts for a longer period and helps the vehicle to increase its longevity.

Find Out the Right Additives

As discussed above, each and every transmission type has its own requirements and to ensure the best performance, you will have to choose a fluid that meets all the requirements. These requirements are mainly fulfilled by the additives present in the transmission oil and each and every agent has a specific role to play. It is essential to make sure that the transmission liquid you are choosing features all the necessary additives and can meet all the transmission needs.

Budget

There is absolutely no doubt that maintaining a car comes with a high price tag. However, there are ways you can prevent overspending by choosing the right transmission fluid at the right price.

There are several transmission fluids in the market that come with the same formulation but differ in price. Look around the market well before finalizing a fluid and see whether you get the same product and quality at a cheaper price tag or not. But you must avoid the cheapest fluid with low quality and performance.

What Is Transmission Fluid For 4L60E?

In the automobile industry, transmission is an essential part and covers a significant portion of the market. The 4L60E transmission is considered to be one of the most efficient and top-performing transmission models manufactured to date. To maintain this transmission and to ensure that it provides the performance it is supposed to, the use of fluid is essential.

Tranny fluid will make sure that the 4L60E transmission is well protected from damage caused by the collision of inner gears, belts, and so on. It will also improve the lifespan of the transmission, allowing it to serve for a longer period. And DEXRON III type transmission fluid is mainly compatible with this transmission.

Benefits Of Using Transmission Fluid For 4L60E

There are several benefits that transmission fluids offer to the 4L60E transmission and these are:

Damage Prevention

The internal parts, gears and belts in the 4L60E transmission often encounter damage that is caused by the wear or tear of moving pieces and overheating. Transmission oil comes with quite a few additives that prevent this damage by lubricating the parts with a protective layer.

Smooth Gear Shifting

The lubrication provided by the fluid improves the smoothness and performance of the shifting gears. It makes it easier for the driver to shift gears on the road and ensure maximum transfer of power.

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

The use of transmission fluid improves the fuel efficiency of the vehicle and allows the car owners to save money by using the minimum amount of fuel per mile. It also minimizes the hassle of travelling to the gas station frequently.

Better Operating Temperatures

The 4L60E transmission often has to function at both low and high temperatures depending on the location and weather. The transmission oil ensures that the 4L60E offers the same performance at all temperatures and all times.

When And How To Change Transmission Fluid For 4L60E?

Over time, the transmission fluid burns and the quality decreases. According to manufacturers, transmission oil must be replaced once in every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for automatic transmissions. However, there are certain signs that indicate whether you need to change the transmission fluid immediately or not. These are:

  • Constant noise while driving or accelerating
  • Damage due to friction or wear and tear
  • Leaking or excessive burning of transmission oil
  • Overheating of the transmission components
  • Poor or faulty gear shifting

The trans fluid of a car is an essential factor and you need to make sure that the fluid is added or replaced properly. You can replace the fluid on your own if you have enough knowledge about transmissions and transmission fluids. However, manufacturers recommend that the replacement of transmission fluids must be done by professionals to avoid any mistakes that might risk transmission performance.

People Also Ask

Is The 4L60E Transmission Any Good?

In the automobile industry, the 4L60E transmission is one of the best and most popular automatic transmissions ever manufactured. This transmission model was initially introduced to the world in 1982 and is still one of the top choices of manufacturers all over the world.

What If I Use The Wrong Transmission Fluid In 4L60E?

While the right transmission fluid will take proper care of the transmission of your vehicle, the wrong one will do the exact opposite. The wrong transmission fluid in 4L60E will significantly reduce the performance of the transmission and will not be able to protect the internal parts, gears, and belts from damage and overheating.

Is Synthetic Transmission Fluid Better For 4L60E Than Conventional?

Both these two types of transmission fluids ensure an improvement in the performance and longevity of the 4L60E transmission. But the synthetic transmission fluid is better than conventional liquid in terms of performance, additives, longevity, and so on. That is why I prefer the use of synthetic fluid over conventional.

How Much Transmission Fluid Does a 4L60E Hold?

A 4L60E transmission holds approximately 12 quarts of fluid.

How can I make my 4L60E performance better?

There are a few things you can do to make your 4L60E transmission perform better.

One is to make sure the transmission fluid is clean and fresh.

Another is to install a higher quality filter. You can also install a shift kit to improve the transmission’s shifting performance. Finally, you can have the transmission professionally rebuilt to further improve its performance.

Final Words

As discussed above, 4L60E is one of the top transmission models available in the industry right now. To make sure that it provides extraordinary performance and lasts for a longer period properly, the use of Tranny fluid is absolutely necessary.

The products I’ve discussed above are some of the best transmission fluid for 4L60E options available in the market now. Before you choose a transmission fluid for the 4L60E transmission, make sure that you take the buying factors properly into consideration.

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