Through the stand, cold and glass flasks: a comparative test of power steering fluids. Various types of oils

In transmissions with automatic gear shifting (automatic transmission), a mixture (fluid) is used, which is popularly called ATF fluid. For decades, GM General Motors has been setting quality standards for automatic transmission oils.

The difference between Dexron 2E (IIE) and 2D (IID)

Most of the world's manufacturers of ATF and automatic transmission oils are guided by the General Motors fluid quality specification. Since the eighties, the current GM reference has been the Dexron IID, which was later updated to the Dexron IIE. And already in 1993, the Dextron No. 3 standardization entered the market.

The difference between Dexron IIE and Dexron IID is insignificant. However, the new generation of Dextron Number 3 standards differs significantly from its predecessors. The fractional characteristics of the third-generation mixture have improved significantly, the manifestation of which affects all modes of operation of the automatic transmission.

All generations of Dextron specifications are considered interchangeable. However, it is only possible to renew the gear oil for the new generation, the reverse action will impair the performance of the additives that are added to the Dexron 3 blends.

Dexron 2 should not be replaced with Dexron 3 unless the manufacturer of the respective transmission claims to improve efficiency when switching to new standards.

Popular Grade Specifications

Mannol Dexron 3

Mannol Dexron 3 automatic is considered a multipurpose automatic transmission oil. This mixture of Manol is also used in power steering, hydraulic clutches, spinning mechanisms.

As well as everything, without exception, Dextron oils have a reddish tone. The manufacturer has thoroughly worked on a combination of additives and synthetic components, the components of which contribute to the improvement of fractional characteristics at the time of gear shifting.

Oil from a manufacturer from Germany has high low-temperature characteristics, excellent antioxidant performance, and chemical composition stability 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.

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 automatic transmission blend designed for use in modern transmissions. Proven to be the most fuel efficient blend.

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

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 has a mineral structure. It is used in power steering and automatic transmission with the GM Dexron 3 approval standard.

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

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

Motul MultiATF

Motul Multi ATF is 100% synthetic fluid. Universal oil, which is designed for automatic transmissions manufactured since 2000.

It is also possible to use in transmissions with hydrostatics, power steering, and in other mechanisms (including ATP) that support the standard Mercon and Dexron. Motul is a leader in chemical composition and viscosity, temperature performance, stability features, meets all requirements from GM.

Meets the major 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.

Operating conditions Dexron 3

Historically, it was not worth focusing on the tolerances of mixtures from manufacturing companies. All reputable motorists recommend paying attention to specifications from GM and standards from automatic transmission manufacturers.

The main preconditions that you can focus on are the designations of the “transmission” on the automatic transmission dipstick. If “Dexron III” is marked, then it is preferable to fill it in. Otherwise, the consequences can be sad.

Our advice: Follow the recommendations of the automatic transmission manufacturers of your car, be guided by the standards from General Motors, fill in an acceptable transmission mixture, and change it in a timely manner. And your transmission will serve you for a long time and stably.

In the second half of the 20th century, when the automotive industry became not only mass-produced, but also international, there was an urgent need to classify and streamline lubricants.

At this time, the Lubrizol laboratory, owned by one of the leading automotive manufacturers, created a new standard for gear oils. This standard is called Dexron.

Subsequently, the standard was repeatedly revised and modified. Today, most cars operated in the Russian Federation are designed for the Dextron 3 standard.

Although this standard has been replaced by a more advanced one for several years now. Below we will analyze in detail what Dexron 3 lubricants are.

History of Dexron lubricants

GM introduced an innovative transmission fill called Dexron in 1967. In 1968, this gear oil began to be mass-produced.

Lubricant development timeline Dextron

Since about the end of 1968, almost all new gearboxes of cars manufactured by GM have been filled with Dextron oil. The first version of the transmission fluid from General Motors turned out quite well for its time.

After conducting independent tests, it was proved that its properties exceeded most of the compositions used at that time. And Dexron gear oils have become widespread.

Three years after the presentation, the company had disagreements with environmental services and associations that advocate for the protection of the environment.

The fact is that whale oil was used as a friction modifier in Dextron lubricants of the first generation. And for its production on an industrial scale, whales were massively exterminated.

After the ban on the use of animal fat as a friction modifier, Dextron 2 lubricant appeared in 1972. However, it had a serious drawback: the package of additives used greatly accelerated the corrosion of automatic transmission cooling system elements.

In 1973, a new version of this lubricant was released: Dexron IID. Of the significant shortcomings, high hygroscopicity was noted, which reduced its service life.

The latest version of the second generation Dextron was released in 1990 and received the IIE index. For her, the composition of additives was significantly revised, which improved the low-temperature properties of the lubricant.

In 1993, Dexron III gear lubricant was first introduced. It was an innovative lubricant, significantly superior in all properties to its predecessor. It also began to be massively used as a power steering fluid.

In 1997, the third generation ATP Dextron oil was redesigned. The index G was added to the name. The main changes affected the antioxidant properties. The improvement in oxidation resistance has made it possible to change the lubricant less often when working in difficult conditions.

In 2003, Dextron 3 oil received the latest and most significant update. Firstly, oils of groups 2 and 3 began to be used for the base. That is, the base has grown significantly in quality, which affected the service life.

The additive package has also been modified. Improved anti-foam, anti-corrosion, protective and lubricating properties. The latest version of the oil from this series is called Dexron IIIG.

Characteristics and scope of Dexron 3 oils

One of the questions that many people get confused about is: Is Dextron 3 synthetic or mineral water? The first two versions (IIIF and IIIG) are pure mineral water. The latest modification, IIIH, is more of a semi-synthetic, as it is made from API class 2 and 3 bases.

The viscosity of Dexron 3 greases stands out for its stability. With a change in temperature and in the process of general aging of the oil, the viscosity changes its parameters slightly.

The operating viscosity for lubricants in this category is in the range from 7 to 7.5 cSt. That is, Dextron 3 oils in automatic transmissions are able to serve for a long time without replacement due to loss of viscosity properties.

In general, all Dexron lubricants certified by General Motors are suitable for use in all automatic transmissions designed for this lubricant.

It is important to make sure that the certification for a particular grease is actually received, as key characteristics may differ for non-certified greases. At the same time, the manufacturer may write on the canister that this oil is Dexron.

To determine the compliance of the lubricant with the standards, you can refer to the list of certified manufacturers, which is posted on the official website of the company. For example, from domestic manufacturers, Lukoil Dextron 3 ATF-oil has a certificate.

Scope of oil Dextron III:

• Today transmission oils from GM are used not only as ATP fluids. In addition to use in automatic transmissions, Dextron 3 lubricants are used for other purposes.
• Power Steering Fluid. Dextron 3 oils are often poured into the power steering. Almost all Asian and many European cars use lubricants similar to Dextron III ATF lubricants, or with similar compositions.
• Manual transmissions, gearboxes, transfer boxes, axles and other loaded transmission units. Dextron 3 oils are often used for these units.
• Industrial oils. Some parts of industrial equipment also use fluids developed by GM.
• Hydraulic oils. Due to their high and stable properties with minimal temperature dependence, Dexron lubricants are used in the actuators of hydraulic equipment.

Interchangeability of Dexron 3 with other lubricants

Is it possible to mix Dextrons from different manufacturers and with different indexes? Let's briefly answer this question.

In automatic transmissions, it is desirable to use only those transmission fluids that are recommended by the manufacturer. However, on forums and even serious service stations, masters often recommend cheaper or more affordable analogues.

But such a replacement will not always be correct. For example, it is better not to change Toyota Dextron 3 specialized oil for Asian cars to Mobile Dextron 3 if there is no reliable information about the possibility of such a replacement.

Even with the confirmation of certificates from GM, external similarity and similar viscosity. Although the JASO standard for the Japanese car industry was created, including on the developments of GM.

note

Dextron 2 and 3 oils can only be mixed if the index goes up relative to the car required by the service book.

For example, if, according to the requirements of the car manufacturer, Dexron 2 series oil must be poured into the box, then you can safely use any of the versions of Dexron 3 lubricants.

Relationship between JASO and GM standards

The differences between Dextron 2 and 3 in all respects show an improvement in performance with an increase in the index. The same goes for Dexron 6 series oils.

It is better not to go downgrading the lubrication class. This will negatively affect the transmission parts within a fairly short period of time.

As for GURs, similar rules apply here. However, for a short time, you can fill in any other liquid if it is not possible to purchase a suitable one.

For the power steering, the operation of the power steering dry will have great negative consequences than with the wrong oil.
About Dextron 2,3,6 gear lubricant standards - video

All power steering fluids differ from each other, not only in color, but also in their characteristics: oil composition, density, ductility, mechanical properties and other hydraulic indicators.

Therefore, if you are worried about the long and stable operation of the hydraulic power steering of a car, you need to follow the operating rules, change the fluid in the power steering in time and fill in the best quality fluid there. For work power steering pump use two types of fluids- mineral or synthetic, in combination with additives that play a major role in the operation of the hydraulic booster.

It is quite difficult to determine the best fluid for power steering, because, according to the manufacturer's recommendation, it is better to pour the prescribed brand into a particular car. And since far from all drivers comply with this requirement, we will try to compile a list of the 15 best power steering fluids that caused the most confidence and collected a lot of positive feedback.

Notice that such liquids are poured into the power steering:

• conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
• Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
• PSF (I-IV);
• MultiHF.

Therefore, the TOP of the best power steering fluids will consist of similar categories, respectively.

So, what is the best power steering fluid to choose from all those on the market?

Note that PSF hydraulic fluids from automakers (VAG, Honda, Mitsubishs, Nissan, General Motors and others) do not participate, since each of them has its own original hydraulic booster oil. Let's compare and highlight only analogue liquids that are universal and suitable for most machines.

Best Multi HF

Hydraulic oil Motul Multi HF. Multifunctional and high-tech synthetic green fluid for hydraulic systems. It was developed specifically for the latest generation of cars that are equipped with such systems as: power steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, hydraulic opening roof, etc. Reduces system noise, especially at low temperatures. It has anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foam properties.

It can be chosen as an alternative to the original PSF, as it is designed for hydraulic drives: power steering, shock absorbers, etc.

Has a long list of approvals:

• CHF 11 S, CHF 202 ;
• LDA, LDS;
• VW 521-46 (G002 000 / G004 000 M2);
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758;
• PORSCHE 000.043.203.33;
• MB 345.0;
• GM 1940 715/766/B 040 0070 (OPEL);
• FORD M2C204-A;
• VOLVO STD. 1273.36;
• MAN M3289 (3623/93);
• FENDT X902.011.622;
• Chrysler MS 11655;
• Peugeot H 50126;
• And many others.

Reviews

• - At my focus, there was a strong whistle from the power steering pump, after replacing it with that liquid, everything was removed as if by hand.
• - I drive a Chevrolet Aveo, the dextron liquid was filled, the pump squealed strongly, they recommended changing it, I chose this liquid, the steering wheel became a little tighter, but the squeal immediately disappeared.

• Pros:
• Has approvals for almost all car brands;
• Can be mixed with similar oils;
• Designed to work in hydraulic pumps under heavy load.

• Minuses:
• Very high price (from 1000 rubles)

Pentosin CHF 11S. Dark green synthetic high quality hydraulic fluid used by BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo. It can be poured not only into the hydraulic booster, but also into the air suspension, shock absorbers and other car systems that provide for the filling of such a liquid. Pentosin CHF 11S Central Hydraulic Fluid is suitable for use in vehicles under extreme conditions, as it has an excellent temperature-viscosity balance and can operate from -40°C to 130°C. A distinctive feature is not only a high price, but also a fairly high fluidity - viscosity indicators are about 6-18 mm² / s (at 100 and 40 degrees). For example, for its counterparts from other manufacturers according to the FEBI, SWAG, Ravenol standard, they are 7-35 mm² / s. A solid track record of approvals from leading automakers.

This PSF of a popular brand from the assembly line is used by German auto giants. Without fear for the power steering system, you can use it in any car, except for Japanese ones.

Tolerances:

• DIN 51 524T3
• Audi/VW TL 52 146.00
• Ford WSS-M2C204-A
• MAN M3289
• Bentley RH 5000
• ZF TE-ML 02K
• GM/Opel
• Chrysler
• Dodge

Reviews

• - A good liquid, no chips, but very aggressive to aluminum, plastic and seals.
• - After the replacement on my VOLVO S60, a smoother steering and quiet operation of the power steering immediately became noticeable. The howling sounds disappeared when the power steering was in extreme positions.
• - I decided to choose Pentosin, although our price is 900 rubles. per liter, but confidence in the car is more important ... On the street again -38, the flight is normal.
• - I live in Novosibirsk, in severe winters the steering wheel spins like KRAZ, I had to try many different fluids, arranged a frosty test, took 8 popular brands with ATF, Dexron, PSF and CHF fluids. So the mineral Dextron became like plasticine, PSF was better, but Pentosin turned out to be the most liquid.

• Pros:
• An extremely inert fluid, it can be mixed with ATF, although it will only bring maximum benefit in its pure form.
• Sufficiently frost-resistant;
• It can be used both on VAZ cars and premium cars.
• Record holder for compatibility with different seals.

• Minuses:
• Does not eliminate pump noise if it was before replacement, but is only designed to maintain the previous state.
• Fairly high price of 800 rubles.

Comma PSF MVCHF. Semi-synthetic hydraulic fluid for power steering, central hydraulic systems and adjustable pneumohydraulic suspensions. It can also be used in some stability control systems, air conditioners, hydraulic systems for folding roofs. Compatible with Dexron, CHF11S and CHF202 specification fluids. Like all multi-fluids and some PSFs, it is green.

Suitable for some car models: Audi, Seat, VW, Skoda, BMW, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Mercedes, Mini, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Saab, Volvo, MAN which require this type of hydraulic fluid.

Conforms to the following specifications:

• VW/Audi G 002 000/TL52146
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758
• Opel B040.0070
• MB 345.00
• Porsche 000.043.203.33
• MAN 3623/93 CHF11S
• ISO 7308
• DIN 51 524T2

Reviews

• - Comma PSF is comparable to Mobil Synthetic ATF, it does not freeze in severe frost on the packaging they write up to -54, I don’t know, but -25 flows without problems.

• Pros:
• It has approvals for almost all European cars;
• It behaves well in the cold;
• Relatively low price for a quality product (from 600 rubles per liter);
• Conforms to Dexron specification.

• Minuses:
• Unlike similar PSF of the same company or other analogues, this type of hydraulic fluid must not be mixed with other ATF and power steering fluids!

RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid- hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer's request, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.

If it is not possible to buy original hydraulic fluid, this is a good choice for a Korean or Japanese car at a nice price.

Compliance with the requirements:

• Citroen/Peugeot 9735EJ for C-Crosser/9735EJ for PEUGEOT 4007
• Ford WSA-M2C195-A
• HONDA PSF-S
• Hyundai PSF-3
• KIA PSF III
• MAZDA PSF
• MITSUBISHI DIAMOON PSF-2M
• Subaru PS Fluid
• Toyota PSF-EH

Reviews

• - I changed it on my Hyundai Santa Fe, filled it instead of the original, because I see no reason to overpay twice. Everything is fine. The pump is not noisy.

• Pros:
• Neutral with respect to sealing rubber materials and non-ferrous metals;
• It has a stable oil film that can protect parts in any extreme temperatures;
• Democratic price up to 500 rubles. per litre.

• Minuses:
• It has approvals mainly only from the Korean and Japanese automakers.

LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil- green hydraulic oil, is a fully synthetic fluid with a zinc-free additive package. It was developed in Germany and guarantees the flawless operation of such hydraulic systems as: power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, support for an active engine damping system. It has a multi-purpose application, but not all major major European car manufacturers and does not have approvals from Japanese and Korean car factories.

Can also be used in systems designed for traditional ATF oils. The product achieves the greatest efficiency when it is not mixed with other liquids.

A good liquid, which you can not be afraid to pour into many European cars, is simply indispensable in regions with harsh winters, but the price tag makes it inaccessible for many.

Complies with tolerances:

• VW TL 52146 (G002 000/G004 000)
• BMW 81 22 9 407 758
• Fiat 9.55550-AG3
• Citroen LHM
• Ford WSSM2C 204-A
• Opel 1940 766
• MB 345.0
• ZF TE-ML 02K

Reviews

• - I live in the north, I drive a Cadillac SRX when there were problems with hydraulics at -40, I tried to fill in Zentralhydraulik-Oil, although there is no permit, but only Ford, I took a chance, I drive everything OK for the fourth winter.
• - I have a BMW, I used to fill in the original Pentosin CHF 11S, and since last winter I switched to this liquid, the steering wheel turns much easier than on ATF.
• - On his Opel I drove 27 thousand km in a year in a temperature range from -43 to + 42 ° C. The power steering does not buzz at startup, but in the summer it seemed that the liquid was rather liquid, since when the steering wheel was rotated in place, there was a feeling of friction of the shaft against the rubber.

• Pros:
• Good viscosity characteristics in the widest temperature range;
• Versatility of application.

• Minuses:
• As for the price tag of 1000 rubles. and with good characteristics, has a small number of approvals and recommendations for use in different brands of cars.

Best Dexron Liquids

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

Dextron 3 from Motul competes with the original from GM, and even surpasses it.

Conforms to standards:

• GENERAL MOTORS DEXRON III G
• FORD MERCON
• MB 236.5
• ALLISON C-4 – CATERPILLAR TO-2

Price from 550 rubles.

Reviews

• - Replaced on my Mazda CX-7 now the steering wheel can be turned literally with one finger.

• Pros:
• The ability to cope with its task in a wide range of temperatures;
• Applicability in power steering of several classes Dextron.

• Minuses:
• Not seen.

Febi 32600 DEXRON VI for the most demanding automatic transmissions and steering columns with power steering, providing for the filling of transmission fluid class Dexron 6. Also recommended for replacement in mechanisms requiring oil DEXRON II and DEXRON III. Manufactured (and bottled) in Germany from high quality base oils and the latest generation of additives. Of all the power steering fluids available, Dexron ATF has the most appropriate viscosity for power steering applications as an alternative to the dedicated PSF fluid.

Febi 32600 is the best analogue of the original fluid in both automatic transmissions and power steering of German automakers.

Has a number of the latest approvals:

• DEXRON VI
• VOITH H55.6335.3X
• Mercedes MB 236.41
• Opel 1940 184
• Vauxhall 93165414
• BMW 81 22 9 400 275 (and others)

Price from 450 r.

Reviews

• - I took it for my Opel Mokka, there are no complaints or any changes for the worse. Good oil for a reasonable price.
• - I changed the fluid in the BMW E46 gur, immediately took Pentosin, but after a week the steering wheel began to turn hard, changed it again but on Febi 32600, it has been on it for more than a year, everything is fine.

• Pros:
• May be substituted for lower grade Dextron fluid;
• It has a good degree of viscosity for universal ATF in a box and power steering.

• Minuses:
• Tolerances only from American and European auto giants.

Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus is a universal all-weather gear oil. Designed for use in automatic transmissions, rotation converters, power steering and hydraulic clutches. Like all liquids, Dexron and Mercon are red in color. Carefully selected additives and synthetic components provide the best frictional properties at the moment of gear shifting, excellent low-temperature characteristics, high antioxidant and chemical stability throughout the entire service life. It has good anti-foaming and air-displacing properties. The manufacturer claims that the transmission fluid is chemically neutral to any sealing materials, but tests have shown that it causes corrosion of copper alloy parts. Made in Germany.

The product has approvals:

• ALLISON C4/TES 389
• CATERPILLAR TO-2
• FORD MERCON V
• FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H
• GM DEXRON III H/G/F
• MB 236.1
• PSF applications
• VOITH G.607
• ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14

Price from 220 rubles.

Reviews

• - I pour Mannol Automatic Plus into my Volga, it withstands frosts of minus 30, there are no complaints about sounds or difficulties in turning the steering wheel, the operation of the hydraulic booster on this fluid is quiet.
• - I have been using MANNOL ATF Dexron III in power steering for two years now, there are no problems.

• Pros:
• Low dependence of viscosity on operating temperature;
• Low price.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to copper alloys.

Castrol DEXRON VI- red transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Low-viscosity gear oil designed to work in modern automatic transmissions with maximum fuel efficiency. Manufactured in Germany from high quality base oils with a balanced additive package. It has Ford (Mercon LV) and GM (Dexron VI) approvals and exceeds the Japanese JASO 1A standard.

If it is not possible to buy the original Dexron ATF for a Japanese or Korean car, then Castrol Dexron 6 is a worthy replacement.

Specification:

• Toyota T, T II, ​​T III, T IV, WS
• Nissan Matic D, J, S
• Mitsubishi SP II, IIM, III, PA, J3, SP IV
• Mazda ATF M-III, M-V, JWS 3317, FZ
• Subaru F6, Red 1
• Daihatsu AMMIX ATF D-III Multi, D3-SP
• Suzuki AT Oil 5D06, 2384K, JWS 3314, JWS 3317
• Hyundai/Kia SP III, SP IV
• Honda/Acura DW 1/Z 1

Price From 600 rub.

Reviews

• - They write on my Aveo that Dextron 6 needs to be poured into the power steering, I took it in the Castrol Transmax DEX-VI store, it seems like only for automatic transmission, they said it’s good for the hydra, as it was regulated by pricing policy, so that not the cheapest but also expensive money it's a pity. There is very little information and reviews on this liquid, but I have no complaints, the steering wheel turns without sounds and difficulties.

• Pros:
• An additive package that provides good protection against corrosion of copper alloys;
• Conforms to many specifications of the majority of world automakers.

• Minuses:
• There is no information on the use in hydraulic transmissions and power steering.

Transmission oil ENEOS Dexron ATF III can be used in Step-tronic, Tip-tronic, automatic transmission and power steering systems. High thermal-oxidative stability is able to ensure the purity of the transmission for more than 50 thousand kilometers. Red liquid ENEOS Dexron III, reminiscent of raspberry-cherry syrup, contains special antifoam additives with good air-displacing properties. Conforms to the latest requirements of GM Dexron manufacturers. It is more often found on sale in 4-liter cans, but liter cans are also found. The manufacturer may be Korea or Japan. Frost resistance at the level of -46 ° С.

If you choose oil for an automatic transmission, then ENEOS ATF Dexron III could be in the top three, but as an analogue for power steering, it only closes the top five fluids.

The list of tolerances and specifications is small:

• DEXRON III;
• G34088;
• Allison C-3, C-4;
• Caterpillar: TO-2.

Price from 400 r. for a can of 0.94 liters.

Reviews

• - I have been using it for 3 years, I changed both in the box and in the power steering for Mitsubishi Lancer X, Mazda Familia, excellent oil, does not lose its properties.
• - I took Daewoo Espero for replacement in automatic transmission, after partial filling I have been driving for more than six months, I don’t see any problems.
• - I poured Santa Fe into the box, as for me Mobile is better, it seems to be losing its properties faster, but this is only relative to automatic transmission, I have not tried how it behaves in power steering.

• Pros:
• One of the best lubricating properties;
• It tolerates very low temperatures well.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to copper alloy parts.

The best ATF fluids for power steering

Liquid Mobil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red Dextron 3 grade ATP fluids. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.

Mobile ATF 320 will not only be an excellent choice as an analogue for pouring into an automatic box, but also a good option, in terms of its behavior and characteristics, in the power steering system.

Specifications:

• ATF Dexron III
• GM Dexron III
• ZF TE-ML 04D
• Ford Mercon M931220

The price starts from 360 r.

The hydraulic power steering is designed to make it easier to control, as well as dampen vibrations and shocks that fall on the steering wheel. In order for it to serve for 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, gives their description, advantages and disadvantages.

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Fluid Description

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

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

It has the following features:

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

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

An important function of the PSF is to remove excess heat from the mechanisms. In addition, acting as a lubricant, it reduces friction between moving parts. Anti-corrosion additives in the composition do not allow rust to form inside the mechanism.

Compound

PSFs are divided into three types:

• mineral;
• semi-synthetic;
• synthetic.

Minerals contain 97% naphthenes and paraffins, the rest is additives that give certain properties. Semi-synthetics contain both mineral and synthetic components. They have a longer service life and better performance. Synthetic PSFs contain 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;
• stabilizing viscosity;
• stabilizing acidity;
• giving color;
• preventing foaming;
• to protect rubber parts.

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

Pros and cons

Each type of working fluid has its advantages and disadvantages:

Interchangeability and miscibility

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

Today, Dextron 3 and Dextron 4 are most often used. The parent company does not produce Dextron 3, other companies are engaged in production under license. The second type of Dextron is produced both by the parent company and by licensed manufacturers.

Yellow oils are produced by the Daimler concern. They are mainly used in Mercedes. Under license from Daimler PSF, yellow is also produced by third-party companies.

Green liquids are produced by the German concern Pentosin. Popular with Peugeot, VAG, Citroen and other models.

Do not mix hydraulic fluids that have a different chemical composition: mineral water, semi-synthetics and synthetics.

It is possible to mix liquids of the same color only if they have a similar chemical composition. You can mix PSF 2 colors: red and yellow. Green power steering oil should not be mixed with red or yellow, as they have a different chemical base. Therefore, only green liquids can be mixed with each other.

Issue price

The price of hydraulic steering fluids varies greatly. Original products are always more expensive.

Video "Power steering oil"

This video gives an overview of the PSF Dextron III (the author of the video is Nick86 auto-building).