6 Best Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid 2024

Reviewed By: Joses Peter

For many people taking the car to a professional to change the gear oil is pretty much expensive and hassle. On the contrary, changing the gear oil is necessary for any automatic transmission. That’s the reason you often try to do it by yourself. And the only problem here is about choosing the best synthetic automatic transmission fluid for our vehicles.

When you take the car to professionals, they will suggest an ATF, and very often, they only suggest the one they got paid for promotion. That’s why it is always better to choose it by yourself. But if you don’t have any idea about it, you can spend a few minutes checking this content.

This content will follow the reviews of the best synthetic ATF and some general information about them. Right after the review section, you’ll get some tips for choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle, and that’s what you need to learn the most. However, let’s start with introducing the synthetic Trans fluid properly.

Comparison of 5 Best Synthetic Transmission Fluid

What Is Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid?

Generally, ATFs of almost all brands and types are available in their synthetic and natural forms. Unlike natural fluids, synthetic ones are manufactured by engineers. They create chemical reactions to create a particular level of pressure and temperature to form this lubricant. Here, all the components that are used to form the oil have to be pure and full of unbreakable molecular efficiency.

You know that natural things are always the best compared to synthetic ones. But things are not small in the case of ATF. For sure, synthetic fluids are more effective and convenient. That’s the reason manufacturers are producing more synthetic fluids than natural ones.

Generally, the pure components of the synthetic ATF ensure strength to the oxidation. They are highly resistant to breakdown as well. Additionally, the synthetic oil doesn’t contain any wax, and the strong molecular bonds and size prevent the oil being jellifying even when the temperature is too cold.

In the case of synthetic oil, the molecular structure is specified most securely. There is no way they can thin out when the temperature is high. Also, most oil comes with various protective characteristics that make this type of fluid even more effective and smooth.

So, synthetic fluids are way more popular, and nowadays, people are getting more interested in them. But, you cannot use any oil of this type on your transmission. You have to choose the appropriate one for the best aftermath. Let’s check out the list of the best synthetic gear oils before you learn about facts to check before you choose one.

6 Best Synthetic Transmission Fluids

You must check the quick list of the fluid, and that’s not enough to learn about them. To find out what can work on your transmission properly, you have to check out the synthetic automatic transmission fluid reviews. Here you go for them.

Castrol 03060 GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

Let’s get started with the best synthetic gear oil, Castrol GTX magnate. You will be pleased to know that it is transitioning to GTX Full Synthetic, a new Castrol product. It is secure and affordable as well.

Performance

This advanced Castrol Magnatec oil is tested in the industry sequence Iva wear test. In addition, it gives excellent wear protection and makes your vehicle’s critical engine parts four times smoother. No wonder it will alleviate engine wear in your vehicles.

Manufacturer Details

Being constructed with intelligent molecules, it works smoothly on most gasoline engines. Also, it is structured in a way so that when the engine stops, the oil will not drain off from the main engine parts. Furthermore, the extra layer of protection here will reduce engine wear.

Build For

This Castrol Transmax full synthetic multi-vehicle ATF is mostly recommended for gasoline engines and less recommended for diesel engines as the additives control the emissions. In addition, Civic and Odyssey have initially chosen to use this full synthetic oil.

Pack Size

Primarily, you will find this synthetic oil in a bottle, and the volume is approximately 160 fluid ounces. Note to mention that the size is really handy to carry it on short trips and heavy traffic.

ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-9244 Dexron VI Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

ACDelco GM’s original 10-9244 Dexron VI works better than the previous generation DEXRON automatic transmission fluid. No wonder it is a replacement for the earlier transmissions that commonly used Dexron fluid in previous.

Friction Durability

This synthetic fluid gives a better outcome than previous Dexron fluid; it is an excellent choice for friction durability and oxidation resistance. And most importantly, it will work readily for viscosity stability.

Manufacturer Details

The properties of Dexron VI full synthetic automatic transmission fluid are primarily designed, tested, and engineered to exquisite standards. And of course, the parts are backed by General motors. Moreover, some parts appeared as ACDelco professional or GM Genuine Parts.

Suggested For

In general, this fluid goes well in millions of GM vehicles every year. Besides, the OE parts function rigorously and fit perfectly. No wonder ACDelco works on GM genuine parts very precisely, and it is highly recommended even for BMW users.

Pack Size

Commonly, ACDelco pursues the 18-quality approval system, the same as Gold and Silver aftermarket parts. Mentioning its working process, either you choose aftermarket or OE, it will work to retain the integrity of the vehicle’s parts.

Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

Valvoline is well recognized for its high-quality motor oil, and it ensures to keep the vehicles are secure while rolling down roads all around the world. Besides, it maintains smooth shifting, and indeed Valvoline Multi-Vehicle ATF remains longer than any conventional fluids.

Performance

Valvoline Multi-vehicle ATF offers engine lubricants and cleaners to help your vehicle run at the best performance. Moreover, its full synthetic formulation helps to extend transmission life and prevents any causes of transmission breakdown.

Production Details

This full synthetic fluid is engineered with advanced additives and full-synthetic base oils. In addition, you will find it tooled with anti-wear technology, and it improves transmission durability.

Recommended For

Valvoline is largely used in a wide range of fluid applications. And it includes most Ford, Honda models, and GM, Toyota. Furthermore, it is also suggested to use in Mercon LV, Merc/DX, and many other applications.

Package

In General, you will get this product in a 6-gallon package. And also, you will get this transmission oil in different pack sizes too. Indeed, you can buy only one gallon as well. The oil comes in universal handy gallons that are easy to carry.

Royal Purple 06320-6PK Max ATF High-Performance Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

Royal Purple 06320-6PK will ensure you a longer fluid life. Its oxidation-stable is much more efficient than any other modern transmission fluid. Moreover, you will find it compatible and can mix it with other fluids too.

Heat Resistant

Royal Purple transmission fluid is well-recognized for its scientific engineering design. It extends the life of your transmission by reducing the heat. Whereas most transmission failures happen due to overheating, it assures you cooling and protection from excessive heating.

Made of

This product is tooled with a low coefficient of friction, and its high film strength will automatically reduce heat and wear. Furthermore, Max ATF has come with a 20-degree reduction in fluid temperature. And it will eventually double the life of your transmission.

Used For

This high-quality fluid is highly suggested for most vehicles of Suzuki, Toyota T-III, T-IV, Mercedes Benz 236.1, 2, 3, Honda ATF-Z1, etc. Likewise, it is more compatible with TES-295, Allison C-4, Idemitsu K17, Matic-J, Matic-K, and more. So, you will find this fluid suitable for various vehicle types.

Package Details

Primarily, you will find this product for 2 pounds. Moreover, you will get it in 1 Quart size. Also, it is available in a 6-pack case. One thing to mention is that it has been manufactured with perfect ingredients to get the best performance.

Red Line 57904 (75W90) Synthetic Gear Oil

Red Line 75W90 will give you higher performance, and you can use this in almost all vehicles. Additionally, it is especially preferred for light truck differentials, can be used in all racing applications, and has a friction modifier.

Performance

This synthetic gear oil will give you absolute efficiency for the drivetrain and the highest degree of protection. Moreover, its frictional properties will help you in rapid synchronization and is optimized for differential, transaxle use concerning a wide range of temperatures.

Manufacturer Details

Red Line gear oil is manufactured with polyol ester base stocks, and it will give your vehicle excellent lubrication under high temperatures and in high loading conditions. The synthetic base stocks here have natural multi-grade properties. Thus, it will provide a stable viscosity for an extended period of use.

Build For

This synthetic gear oil is recommended for MT-1, API GL-5, GL-6, and MIL-L-2105E. In addition, this item is compatible with Chrysler spec MS-9763, SAE J2360. Even the 2003 BMW E46 can easily go 100k miles using this transmission fluid.

Pack Size

Its liquid volume is approximately 1 Quart in size. And also, you will get bit with different packages too. It is no wonder that it is packed with the perfect ingredients and assures to give maximum performance.

Pentosin 1058206 ATF-1 Synthetic Automotive Transmission Fluid

Pentosin Transmission Fluid has long been recognized for its outstanding performance, and it assures the vehicle system longevity. Additionally, you can use it in today’s manual, double-clutch, CVT, and automatic transmissions.

Friction Modifier

This fluid is formulated with friction modifiers and anti-wear chemistry. And, of course, it will stabilize the friction performance in your modern vehicles. Moreover, Pentosin fluid ensures the best defense in transmission for service refills.

Production Details

This high-performance hydraulic fluid is manufactured with central hydraulic systems, including rear-axle steering, hydro-pneumatic suspension, power steering, level control, and shock absorbers. Initially, it is made with a synthetic base and works excellent in operating temperatures between -40F to and275F.

Recommended For

This Pentosin ATF is best suited for vehicles with an anti-lock brake system. In addition, it is highly recommended for transmissions, including Voith DIWA, and its second and third versions, Mercedes-Benz 236.11, Shell M1375.4, etc.

Available Package

The Manufacturer of Pentosin ATF is made with all the additive components. Initially, you will find this oil in a 5-liter container, weighing around 2.2 pounds. No wonder you can carry this transmission oil on your long time journey.

How to Choose The Best Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid?

It is very common for vehicle users to buy the wrong gear oil and end up being disappointed. Basically, everyone should consider a few facts when choosing the appropriate full synthetic transmission fluid for their vehicle. If you are planning to buy one and change the gear oil of your vehicle by yourself, check out the factors below.

Vehicle Compatibility

Undoubtedly, synthetic oil cannot be used on any vehicle. Obviously, fluids are varied from vehicle to vehicle. And specific engine type can only consume a specific type of ATF. So, the first thing you have to ensure is choosing an oil compatible with your vehicle.

Generally, all the oils have a list of compatible vehicles and engine types. You have to check the list properly and make sure that your car’s engine is compatible with the oil. Also, remember that many oil brands often mention some of the car models that are not suitable for their products. So, you need to ensure it with authentic information.

Users’ Reviews

How can you be sure that the car model is suitable for the gear oils? Some oil brands wrongly mention many car models that are not even suitable for their oils; it’s pretty tough to get authentic information. In this case, you can depend on what the oil users say about it.

You will get a long list of reviews of the gear oil you want to learn about on most online marketplace. Most users leave a review to let people know about their experience. So, you can rely on their information in most cases.

Synthetic vs. Natural

Many people don’t know about the difference between synthetic vs. Natural fluids. Basically, synthetic fluids are more effective and convenient. They contain pure chemical formulas with a strong molecular structure.

On the other hand, natural fluids don’t have engineered products, so the minerals cannot be as perfect as synthetic ones. So, the formula and structure cannot be pure and strong enough to ensure a better performance.

However, my point here is to choose a synthetic manual transmission fluid or an automatic one. But don’t go for the natural one if your vehicle can’t absorb the synthetic one properly. Make sure twice to choose the right one.

ATF Type

As you know, ATFs can be of different types. Generally, you know the types as the fluids generations. You should remember that not all the types are suitable for any vehicle. That’s why I ask you to check the ATF type before buying one for your vehicle.

Besides these basic types, you should also get an idea about the price of the fluid and where you can buy it from. Note to mention here; you can buy them from any automotive store or on the online marketplace. The price often fluctuates, so I cannot mention the exact price here.

Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid Equivalents

When people don’t get a synthetic fluid, they have to look for a better equivalent. In this case, a synthetic blend works quite more effectively than mineral-based fluids. The following fluids can be the good equivalents of synthetic automatic transmission fluids.

1. MultiVehicle Synthetic Blend Automatic Transmission Fluid

Mobil has its bestseller synthetic blend fluid for automatic transmissions. This fluid has quite suitable components, and the formula is nearly perfect as the synthetic ones.

2. CAM2 Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Blend ATF

This blend fluid is suitable for multiple vehicle types. It ensures premium performance with a satisfying geat resistance feature. Also, it will protect the engine against shuddering and eliminate shock to ensure a high-end performance.

3. Coastal Multi-vehicle Synthetic Blend ATF

Finally, it’s a blended fluid from Coastal. And this one can replace a synthetic fluid very effectively for its similar compound structure and formula. Indeed, it is suitable for most recommended engines for synthetic ATFs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

Final Words

So, from now on, you don’t have to take your car to a professional just to change the gear oil. Just choose the best synthetic automatic transmission fluid and follow the user manual. If you don’t understand the instructions, you can watch lots of videos on YouTube over the fact. Thus, you can save a lot of money and, at the same time, ensure the best synthetic gear oil for your vehicle.

Don’t skip any part here, and make sure to check the fluid-compatible vehicle list. Changing the gear oil is not a critical task, and so the entire mission will be successful only if you buy the appropriate fluid. However, hopefully, you have got enough idea about the synthetic ATF. So, I’m taking our leave for today. Thank you for your time.