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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'02 Honda Civic, Transmission Problems With Fluid Change
Q:
I have an ‘02
Honda Civic and I changed the transaxle fluid as specified by the Owner’s
Manual. I changed the fluid 3 times with Ammco ATF (not Honda ATF) and
the transaxle slips only in gear shifting when the fluid is cold on a
cold day. After it warms up, it’s fine. I avoid the dealership at
all costs and was wondering if there is an additive you can add to Ammco
ATF that is present in Honda ATF or if there is another alternative to
using Honda ATF, for instance, a different brand other than Honda ATF.
- Craig D.
A:
First, I would not
recommend using a transmission fluid that does not meet the Honda requirements
for your vehicle. You can walk into any Honda Dealers parts department
and buy the fluid and perform the service yourself. Yes, Honda automatic
transmission oil is pricey. Why is that? It’s not regular transmission
oil. This, of course, you found out after installing a transmission fluid
that is not correct for your Honda. If you want to use regular Automatic
Transmission Fluid (ATF) in your Honda you will need to put an additive
in that oil. There is a company called Lube Guard that produces such an
additive. Their product is found in many parts stores and comes in different
types. Be sure to check the information on the bottle to confirm that
you’re purchasing the correct additive for your vehicle’s transmission
fluid needs. This does provide an alternative but the best way to go is
with the Honda fluid.
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