Trans fluid for MT confusion
 

My '07 is due for a trans fluid change and I've been searching around for info on trans fluids and haven't found a clear answer yet. Ive found people that say Honda's MTF is a 70w80 and some say it's a 75w90 and differing opinions on alternative fluids. Just wondering if anybody knows the true weight or specs of Honda's MTF? I've been looking at Redline MTL but just wondering how close it is to the specs of Honda's MTF?

I have the same doubt. Honda does not specify the characteristics of the MTF. I will use premium Mobil 80W90 GL5. I believe it is one the best available.

The weight or viscosity differences you mention are less important than the friction modifiers contained in the fluids. These FMs help the synchronizers work as designed.

I use Redline MTF (you can get it from NAPA) in some of my other cars, it's good stuff, but I use OEM fluid (from online discount dealers) in my Hondas. Costs less, works great.

Some folks have reported good results using GM Syncromesh MTF but I have never used that myself.


In the '70s and '80s Honda spec'd plain ol' 10W-30 engine oil for use in their manual transmissions. How times have changed.

The owners manual says that you can use 10w30 in a pinch but you should get it drained and refilled with proper MTF ASAP. I was talking to the transmission specialist at a Honda dealer and he said that the Honda transmssion don't need the synchromesh like other brands transmissions do. He said that when customers complain that they have a hard time shifting in the winter, they fill the tranny with a 50/50 mix of Honda MTF and 10w30.

Personally I wouldn't bother with other MTFs although I'm sure it's perfectly safe to use Amsoil synchromesh or GM synchromesh friction modified.

Thanks for all the replies. I will most likely just buy a couple bottles of Honda MTF to save the hassle of figuring out all the other options. I just figured if there was a proper alternative why not upgrade to a better fluid? I've heard good things about Redline and some of the synchromesh fluids such as GM and Amsoil but maybe I'll do some more research into those for next time and just use Honda's stuff until then. Pretty annoying how they don't provide the specs and stuff like that on the label haha.