Dexron iii power steering fluid: Automatic transmission fluid; Dexron III-H/Mercon; 1 gallon; O’Reilly Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid is recommended for all automatic transmissions requiring Dexron IIIH Dexron IIE, Dexron II, Dexron or Mercon transmission fluids. It can also be used where fluids meeting Ford ESP-M2C138CJ or Ford M2C166-H specifications are required. Exceeds Alison C4 specifications. Recommended for Mercedes transmissions.
ATF III, or “Dexron III” as it is more commonly known, is a premium fluid blend that provides additional system protection. Select base oils and special additive combinations impart the special protective qualities that make this the premium choice in automatic transmission fluids.
Features and Benefits:
- O’Reilly Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid is manufactured with highly refined oils and performance additives to meet specific automotive manufacturers’ specifications and performance requirements.
- Provides excellent resistance to oxidation, sludge and varnish deposits at extreme temperatures.
- Reduces wear or scratching of gears, clutch bands and discs.
- Provides excellent friction control for smooth shifting and a cooler transmission.
- Allows for maximum engine performance and protection at all operating temperatures.
- Excellent viscosity-temperature relationship and high chemical resistance.
- Excellent resistance to wear and effective frictional behaviour.
- Foam suppression and good air separation properties.
- Resistant to aging, good lubricating properties and protection against corrosion.
Tech Tip: Dexron III vs ACE Fluid for Power Steering and Fluid Foam: Not sure which fluid to use for power steering in Discovery I or Range Rover Classic? Do you see some foam in your liquid? It can be a bit confusing depending on what you read.
Here are some notes from our Master Land Rover Technician on the subject: Dexron II (the Original OE Spec Fluid) was officially replaced by Dexron III and this is now the Spec Fluid for Range Rover Classic and Discovery I. That being said, Land Rover was phased out. Dexron III with ACE fluid for Discovery Series II and later models. ACE fluid is a higher grade fluid that generally lasts longer and does not “foam” like Dexron does when it begins to break down.
At the dealer, we often used ACE fluid when replacing the fluid in a Discovery I or Classic because of this. The Discovery Series II power steering pumps are essentially the same on the inside as previous vehicles, only the mounting points/housing are different. Liquid foaming can occur when Dexron breaks down or when there is an air leak in the pump system. If your fluid is relatively new and you still see foam, check for leaks in your pump or the hose connections to your pump.
Dexron Type ATF Power Steering Fluid for Vehicles
Automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) are an integral part of vehicle engines. They are responsible for the normal operation of the transmission and power steering systems, no doubt.
In particular, Dexron-type ATF power steering fluid is now the top-notch type with outstanding characteristics compared to PS fluids.
However, not everyone is well acquainted with this type of ATF. If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry! Here comes a comprehensive post that reveals the ins and outs of Dexron ATFs.
What is Dexron type ATF power steering fluid?
Dexron Type Auto Transmission Fluid power steering fluids are General Motors brand and are used to lubricate, cool, and anti-rust the vehicle’s transmission.
Without ATF, a transmission can overheat in addition to debris penetration, ending up with completely worn out or even damaged parts.
The market witnessed the dominance of four major types of Dexron, ranging from ATF Dexron power steering fluid, Dexron 2D fluid, Dexron 2E to Dexron II power steering fluid.
Still, now they make room for Dexron 3 and Dexron 6, which are more relevant 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 fully synthetic power steering fluid does well with tighter internal tolerances and better shear making it predominant, even surpassing Dexron ATF 3.
What is the difference between Mercon 5 and Dexron 3?
Most of the time Mercon 5 and Dexron 3 are interchangeable and many models accept both.
Steering
Fluid Dexron 3 is a power steering and automatic transmission fluid. As stated, it is made 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 whatever vehicle it specializes in.
Dexron 3 even works well with older systems designed for older fluid types such as Dexron 2 power steering fluid.
Mercon 5
Mercon was born in 1987 by the Ford company, whose license ceased in 2007. In the same year, it was announced Mercon 5 as a replacement for Mercon ATF.
Fits all trannies designed for it and old Mercon car models. You can use it in all Ford ATFs except Ford Type F.
This type of Mercon 5 fluid includes additional friction modifiers, creating more slip than Mercon.
It makes sense to consult the car’s owner’s manual in advance to choose the best types of ATF.
Can I mix Dexron 3 with Dexron 6?
Yes. It is okay to mix Dexron ATF 3 with Dexron ATF 6 with no shifting issues, as long as you filter and disturb the drained automotive fluid properly.
To explain, Dex 6 works great with the old streaming system, albeit a bit pricey. However, that doesn’t mean the current transmission design will get along with the older type of fluid.
In other words, any model that works well with Dexron 3 can do the same with the combination of Dex-3 and 6, particularly Acura/Honda and Toyota trannies.
Towards the remaining vehicles, you can have a test to ensure the possibility of the combination of two fluids.
What is the great frequency for Dexron power steering fluid replacement?
The needs, types, and remaining automotive fluids in vehicles determine the answer.
It is best to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions or guidelines. On average, placement takes place every 50,000 miles or five years, whichever condition occurs first.
Some signs show that it is time to change your power steering fluids: the fluid is no longer clear in color or has dirt and impurities inside.
In other cases, strange whining or moaning can be a problem. When you detect a fluid leak, check the auto trans fluid level and replace if necessary.
Make sure that the liquid level is sufficient for the operation of the system. Otherwise, the drained fluid will affect the power steering pump, which will require an expensive repair or replacement.
What can happen if I use the wrong Dexron power steering fluid?
The consequences of overfilling your power steering fluid and the wrong fluid are ungodly.
The wrong fluid added to the transmission system causes erratic power steering problems, transmission slippage, rough shifting, improper operation, gear shifting, fluid breakdown, and even cold weather breakdowns.
The tranny will show signs of slipping, poor shifting, and terminal corruption with the wrong fluid.
In some cases, manual transmissions will get poor synchronizer rings to match the internal gears. Also, the wrong fluid causes decreased productivity due to a stiff or even failing shifter.
Finally, unpleasant noise is the result of a damaged or worn transmission. The wrong fluid also contributes to transmission slippage when cold. Watch out for the wrong liquid before it’s too late!
Can I use transmission fluid in a power steering pump?
Yes, for most engine systems (Chrysler, Ford, and General Motor vehicles), but not those designed for power steering fluid only.
While you may like the automatic transmission, read the service manual to make sure your car will fit your desired ATF.
Power steering pumps can adopt transmission fluid in urgent cases, since both are hydraulic fluids. Still, the system can show signs of deterioration for a while without the correct fluids.
Although it might do some damage to the pump’s hydraulic valve, your vehicles can get the most out of ATF thanks to the included detergents that keep the drive system clean.
WHAT IS POWER STEERING FLUID? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW Power
steering fluid is an essential part of keeping cars and trucks running. As the name suggests, it’s what allows you to steer and turn your vehicle with little to no effort.
Power steering fluid ensures that the power steering hoses, pistons, valves and pump are working optimally. If you don’t stay on top of the quality of your vehicle’s power steering fluid and if you don’t flush and replace it as needed, your power steering pump will begin to deteriorate.
Read on as Brian Murphy, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Education and Development Program Manager, answers the question, “What is power steering fluid?” Explains the types of power steering fluid, how to change power steering fluid, what color power steering fluid is, how to flush power steering fluid, and other information on how power steering fluid maintains cars running smoothly.
What is power steering?
A vehicle’s power steering system uses engine power to help reduce the amount of effort required to turn a vehicle’s front wheels. It is a system that helps the driver to have greater control and handling of a vehicle.
Power steering systems can be hydraulic or electric. Hydraulic systems use fluid to apply hydraulic pressure to the system to help turn the wheels of a car. An electric system uses an electric motor and various sensors to detect how much force a driver is applying to the steering wheel and then determines how much assistance the system should add.
What does power steering fluid do?
Power steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid used in the steering system to create a hydraulic link between the steering wheel and the front wheels. That decreases the amount of effort required to turn the wheels.
Power steering fluid also lubricates the moving parts within the steering system. Suppresses foaming and prevents corrosion in the power steering gear and steering pump, keeping vehicles running optimally.
What color is the power steering fluid?
Power steering fluid is typically red, amber, pink, clear, and/or clear. If it’s dark brown or foamy, it probably needs to be changed.
Where is the power steering fluid?
The power steering fluid reservoir is located under the hood, usually on the passenger side of the vehicle, although it can sometimes be found on the driver’s side. The container is usually white or yellow with a black cap that has the words “power steering” or “steering fluid” across the top.
What are the types of power steering fluid?
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is the same fluid that is used inside the automatic transmission. ATF can also be used in some power steering systems. Some types of ATF include Dexron and Mercon.
Synthetic power steering fluid is a non-oil based fluid that is created in a laboratory. Synthetic power steering fluid is usually designed specifically for the particular car or system for which it is used. Most newer vehicles use synthetic power steering fluid.
There are also non-synthetic mineral-based oil power steering fluids that can be used in applications that accept ATF fluids.
Many people ask, “Is power steering fluid the same as transmission fluid?” Although ATF and power steering fluid are hydraulic fluids, ATF contains different modifiers and detergents that are specifically designed to remove dirt and grease from the transmission system.
What are power steering fluid specification standards?
Power steering specification standards are requirements for fluid viscosity, detergents, additives, and other components. Meeting these standards ensures that the power steering fluid is safe to use in a specific vehicle.
Power steering fluid specification standards are created by standardization organizations. For example, DIN 51 524T3 is the standard given by the German Institute for Standardization, while ISO 7308 is the standard given by the International Organization for Standardization.
Certain vehicles will require the power steering fluid to meet DIN 51 524T3 and ISO 7308 standards. There may be other power fluid standards for certain types of vehicles, such as those made by Japanese car manufacturers.
When should you change your power steering fluid?
When you should change your power steering fluid depends on the type of fluid being used and how much fluid is in the system. The best way to know when to change your power steering fluid is to follow the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) guidelines. In general, power steering fluid should be replaced at least every five years or 50,000 miles.
There may be physical warning signs that your power steering fluid needs to be changed. When you inspect the power steering fluid, it should be clear in color. If it is dark, it is a sign that it is time to change it. If you see dirt, debris, or sludge in your power steering fluid, it’s time to flush the system.
You may also hear a whine or groan when you turn the steering wheel, indicating that you’ll want to have your power steering system checked. If you find it harder to turn the wheel, that may be another sign that it’s time to change the fluid. If there are leaks, you’ll also want to check the power steering fluid level.
To repair the steering wheel fluid, drain or rinse the old power steering fluid from the car and add new power steering fluid. It is important to service the power steering fluid because it can help prolong the functionality of other parts of the power steering.
Conclusion
When applying ATF to your engine, never carefully bypass the vehicle manual before applying Dexron Type ATF power steering fluid.
Last but not least, you can optimize productivity and avoid many unexpected things instead of the original fluid. Let’s get down to the best automatic transmission fluid option.
Keep in mind that vehicles need a trans-compatible fluid formulation at times for best performance. Therefore, be sure to use the correct type of fluid for the system to prolong the life of the car.
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