Mobil1 Synthetic ATF

[ericssonfan]

Hey guys, I went by CT today and picked up a few bottles of Mobil1 Synthetic ATF. I'm not sure if this is the right one since I found conflicting info on it. I've seen pics of a few different bottles saying Mercon III and Mercon V on them and on the mobil1 website, there's no mention of Mercon V on the spec sheet for Canadian version of this product and no mention on the bottles I bought. I also read online that the cdn versions are not Mercon V approved. The ones I bought were only synthetic kind offered by Mobil1. Here are some pics:

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/5251/img0045c.jpg
http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/6906/img0046g.jpg

Anybody know if I've got the right ones, and if not, where to go to get the right ones?

[htc***]

Hey guys, I went by CT today and picked up a few bottles of Mobil1 Synthetic ATF. I'm not sure if this is the right one since I found conflicting info on it. I've seen pics of a few different bottles saying Mercon III and Mercon V on them and on the mobil1 website, there's no mention of Mercon V on the spec sheet for Canadian version of this product and no mention on the bottles I bought. I also read online that the cdn versions are not Mercon V approved. The ones I bought were only synthetic kind offered by Mobil1. Here are some pics:

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/5251/img0045c.jpg
http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/6906/img0046g.jpg

Anybody know if I've got the right ones, and if not, where to go to get the right ones?

Yes, it's the right one for mazda which mention in mobil ad (Mazda ATF-III, ATF-MV)

http://www.mobiloil.com/USA-English/MotorOil/Other_Products/Mobil_1_Synthetic_ATF.aspx

[ericssonfan]

It doesn't mention anything about ATF-III ATF-MV on the bottle, front or back.

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1513682&page=1
About halfway down, they starting talking about CDN version not Mercon V approved.

[htc***]

It doesn't mention anything about ATF-III ATF-MV on the bottle, front or back.

I know. Other brands also don't mention too. You have to go to their website to look at spec. Check with Redraptor who also use it . I bought some 8 bottles but no time to change it.

I think Mazda3 does not use Mercon V. It uses ATF-MV (it's not Mercon V). Be careful about it. try to search in forum about it. I think TSB has mention it too.

[ericssonfan]

Yep, I've read some people have have used Mercon V as a good and stable substitute. I've read a number of threads where Mobil1 Syn ATF was used and seem to be doing fine. I just wanted to make sure I had the right product.
As for ATF-III and ATF-MV, the data sheet in your link points to the US version of the ATF and not the Canadian version ---> http://www.imperialoil.ca/Canada-English/Files/Products_Lubes/IOCAENPVLMOMobil_1_Synthetic_ATF.PDF

The product in your link is the product I'd ideally want to have(ATV-MV compliant). I just don't know if my bottles are just different packaging, but the data sheets for both seem aimed for different cars.

[htc***]

Always be sure to use the correct automatic transmission fluid when replacing ATF. Using the wrong ATF may
cause shift quality complaints or may even damage the transmission.
NOTE:
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) IS NOT THE SAME FLUID AS MERCON®V ATF.
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) HAS A GREATER VISCOSITY THAN MERCON®V ATF IN LOW TEMPERATURES.
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) HAS A GREATER ANTI-JUDDER SPECIFICATION THAN MERCON®V ATF.

CAUTION:
• USING ATF OTHER THAN ATF M-V (TYPE M5) IN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS DESIGNED TO USE ATF M-V (TYPE M5) MAY CAUSE SHIFT QUALITY COMPLAINTS.
• USING ATF OTHER THAN MERCON®V IN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS DESIGNED TO USE MERCON®V MAY CAUSE TRANSMISSION DAMAGE.


Here is the link http://www.finishlineperformance.com/pdf/tribute/05-005-08-1928.pdf

[htc***]

You can also check this thread : http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?42053-Auto-Transmission-Flush-advice/

[ericssonfan]

Thanks for the links. I checked those out already. But over here it says you can use Dexron III, ATF M-V, Mercon V http://www.pwdlubricants.com/new2.html
Alot of the info I'm gathering is contradictory..

[htc***]

Try to PM RedRaptor for advise and ask him which bottle of Mobil Synthetic ATF does he used?


I already checked CT & Partsource and I only see they carry this Synthetic ATF from Mobil.

[ericssonfan]

PM'm already. I'm thinking it has to be because it's the only fully synthetic atf CT carries.
ALso found this: http://www.mobil.com/Canada-English/Lubes/PDS/IOCAENPVLMOMobil_1_Synthetic_ATF.asp

Happy to see that it covers Dexron III, which is a direct equivalent of ATF M-V

[htc***]

Why don't you go to Partsource and buy 4 bottles of Mobil Synthetic ATF then take $10 off for $35 purchase (before tax) at partsource then come back and do another transaction. Total save 20 buck.


Coupon $10 off in this thread : http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?43923-10-off-cupon-at-partsource-for-35-purchase

[RedRaptor]

This is the only Synthetic ATF that Mobil1 offers. There is a Synthetic Blend that is for Multi-vehicles and is cheaper. Its been out for a year or so.

I remember initially I read up on M1 Syn ATF on M3F and a lot of people were using it with no issues. My first ATF flush was 3 years ago and my tranny is still solid. However, I do not race my car at all. I wanted to try out the cheaper synthetic blend but I decided not to try since a tranny isn't something you want to mess around with especially when you don't have a lot of cash.

Its worked for me for over 3 years now. But as always, user beware.

I'll wait for some more technical members (MajesticBlueNTO) to comment.

[ericssonfan]

Thanks for the replies.. I think I may wait for more replies and if there still is confusion I'll just go to the mazda dealer and get some non synthetic or semi synth from them so I know for sure what I'm getting is the right stuff for my car.

[azn_outlaw]

With ATF Fluid its always best to stick with OEM Fluids

in this case Mazda ATF...

unlike Manual transmissions, you will always read about improvements when using synthetic transmission fluids...

But with ATF, there are never really any positives in using synthetic ATF, I read and even see more failures of auto transmissions that use aftermarket syn ATF

do a search and you will be surprised...

just buy OEM ATF fluid at the dealership and get an independent shop to the change

[htc***]

I also read online that the cdn versions are not Mercon V approved. The ones I bought were only synthetic kind offered by Mobil1.

I think you have over look the PDF doc. After checking bottle's label and Mobil1 CA website, I found something. Bottle said product blended in USA/package in Canada, I think the product will be the same with USA.

Also in Mobil1 website, in applications section said : Also recommended Imperial oil for Ford that require a MERCON V fluid and for pre 2000 model years Ford light duty vehicles.
Recommended for use in any power steering unit where an ATF is required.

[ericssonfan]

Always be sure to use the correct automatic transmission fluid when replacing ATF. Using the wrong ATF may
cause shift quality complaints or may even damage the transmission.
NOTE:
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) IS NOT THE SAME FLUID AS MERCON®V ATF.
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) HAS A GREATER VISCOSITY THAN MERCON®V ATF IN LOW TEMPERATURES.
• ATF M-V (TYPE M5) HAS A GREATER ANTI-JUDDER SPECIFICATION THAN MERCON®V ATF.

CAUTION:
• USING ATF OTHER THAN ATF M-V (TYPE M5) IN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS DESIGNED TO USE ATF M-V (TYPE M5) MAY CAUSE SHIFT QUALITY COMPLAINTS.
• USING ATF OTHER THAN MERCON®V IN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS DESIGNED TO USE MERCON®V MAY CAUSE TRANSMISSION DAMAGE.


Here is the link http://www.finishlineperformance.com/pdf/tribute/05-005-08-1928.pdf

After reading that, I'm not gonna take my chances with Mobil1. Although many users have had success using that formula, there's no guarantee my car will handle it the same. And if problems arise, my warranty may be denied because I didn't use an approved oil. I will go with dealer oil OR Mobil 1 multi vehicle ATF which on the back states ATF-III ATF-MV..

Also the price tag for Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF at crappy tire says Mobil1 ATF M5 to add even more confusion.

[RedRaptor]

Good call. You must do what you feel comfortable with the car.

Not that this matters but 3 years ago, I brought the Mobil1 Synthetic ATF to a GTA Mazda dealership and had them flush the ATF for me. When I asked the service advisor can I use M1, they said its more than fine. So take it with grain of salt. Like I said, going onto 4 years now with no issues on my tranny. But who knows, with Mazda quality I could need a new tranny next week.

[ericssonfan]

haha RedRaptor, you'll say something so nice and reassuring like 4 years without a problem, but then you'll creep some doubt back into my head with "I could need a new tranny next week"
I really don't want to mess with the tranny.. Right now It's a showdown between Castrol Import MV ATF with is not synthetic vs Mobil 1 MV ATF synthetic blend.. Both are recommended for ATF-MV.. hmmm

[RedRaptor]

Hahaha. Just telling it as it is. I wouldn't want you to lose your tranny because of my recommendation of ATF and then come back and flame me. :)

[ericssonfan]

Just got off the phone with Joe @ MoT.. recommended I just do a drain and fill since I'm not going synthetic and at a low mileage (53K) and I'm not going synthetic, so I'll only need 4 liters and @ TM3 discounted price. Bouyaka! Think I'll stick with this since i'm planning to change tranny fluid every 50K..

[htc***]

Hahaha. Just telling it as it is. I wouldn't want you to lose your tranny because of my recommendation of ATF and then come back and blame me. :)


Good call. You must do what you feel comfortable with the car.

Not that this matters but 3 years ago, I brought the Mobil1 Synthetic ATF to a GTA Mazda dealership and had them flush the ATF for me. When I asked the service advisor can I use M1, they said its more than fine. So take it with grain of salt. Like I said, going onto 4 years now with no issues on my tranny. But who knows, with Mazda quality I could need a new tranny next week.

+1.

[htc***]

Just got off the phone with Joe @ MoT.. recommended I just do a drain and fill since I'm not going synthetic and at a low mileage (53K) and I'm not going synthetic, so I'll only need 4 liters and @ TM3 discounted price. Bouyaka! Think I'll stick with this since i'm planning to change tranny fluid every 50K..

4L is not enough for Mazda3 that mean you will mix the new fluid with old fluid unless you do it twice. Drain it and fill up 4L then you drive around for 20 min then go back to re-drain and re-fill again another 4L.

[ericssonfan]

I've changed my mind and decided to do a full flush since my last post so I get all the original contaminants out since it's my first flush. I'll be using just over 8L.


4L is not enough for Mazda3 that mean you will mix the new fluid with old fluid unless you do it twice. Drain it and fill up 4L then you drive around for 20 min then go back to re-drain and re-fill again another 4L.

Is this what I should do next time when I do just a drain?
I'm planning 50K intervals so I'm hoping drain and fill + OEM will be sufficient.

[RedRaptor]

Personally I just do a full flush every 2 years. StreetPerformance has the machine to do it and its 1/3 of the price of a Mazda dealership for the labour. Bring in your favour ATF brand and you're done.

If you don't track your car, a flush every 2 years is fine.

[m_bisson]

is a flush needed? Don't they just use tap water for it?

[RedRaptor]

is a flush needed? Don't they just use tap water for it?

I wonder if a mechanic can pull you over and give you a ticket for not knowing how a car works as per the "M.T.A" (Mechanic's Traffic Act).

We're talking about a tranny flush and not a coolant flush...

[m_bisson]

ROFL! Wow, i was totally zoned right out for that one..

[htc***]

you can do it yoursefl if you have time on your hands and tools. Here are these links :


Drain and fill only (http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=138381.0)

Another drain & fill (http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=103492.0)

Drain, fill and install an axillary transmission oil cooler (http://www.flex-innovations.com/atx_flush.htm)

Replaces the ATX filter (http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=65560.msg1122833#msg1122833)

[ericssonfan]

I wonder if a mechanic can pull you over and give you a ticket for not knowing how a car works as per the "M.T.A" (Mechanic's Traffic Act).

We're talking about a tranny flush and not a coolant flush...

Zing!

Thanks for the links.. I'll be sure to do that on my next flush since I've already made my appt for this one.

[TheMAN]

4L is not enough for Mazda3 that mean you will mix the new fluid with old fluid unless you do it twice. Drain it and fill up 4L then you drive around for 20 min then go back to re-drain and re-fill again another 4L.

it's enough for a drain and fill
he's NOT flushing, and flushing is completely unnecessary if the maintenance schedule is adhered to... I have NEVER seen (properly maintained) cars that come back with issues on just a drain and fill

[TheMAN]

After reading that, I'm not gonna take my chances with Mobil1. Although many users have had success using that formula, there's no guarantee my car will handle it the same. And if problems arise, my warranty may be denied because I didn't use an approved oil. I will go with dealer oil OR Mobil 1 multi vehicle ATF which on the back states ATF-III ATF-MV..

Also the price tag for Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF at crappy tire says Mobil1 ATF M5 to add even more confusion.

things are a bit different when you go with synthetic ATF because its viscosity ranges are different, temperature tolerances different, friction modifiers, as well as additive packages... I use Redline ATF D4 myself and it's not even a certified anything, but is recommended as a Mercon V replacement, and they also say it's ok as a M-V application... the viscosity and temperature specs show that it's pretty well matches the normal stuff... it shifts just as good as the factory fill when cold, and shifts even smoother once warmed up... fluid temps are lower too

just like motor oil, synthetic tranny fluid (doesn't matter what type) reduces friction, and therefore reduces temperatures... heat = death on an auto tranny, remember that!

if you really want to stick to the OEM fluid, then I recommend a bottle of Lubegard... no, it's not snake oil... people on BITOG have tried it, ran it through lab tests, etc... it DOES work
there's also Lubegard M-V if you decide to use the Mobil1 afterall but have doubts about it being ok as an M-V or Mercon V compatible fluid... it will modify the friction properties of the fluid to make it work as a "Mercon V" (do not use the Lubegard M-V if the fluid is already a Mercon V or M-V)... I haven't searched for posts about this version of the Lubegard, so I don't know if it works or not... all I know is, the plain jane lubegard (red bottle) WORKS... it's also generally agreed on BITOG that lubegard is unnecessary on a known compatible/non-issue synthetic fluid... so in otherwords, I don't use it in my 3 with the redline... but I will use lubegard eventually in my old toyota van (with valvoline maxlife dex/merc atf)

[ericssonfan]

I've decided to do a full flush since it's the first tranny oil change and I want to get the gunk that's been sitting there since the car the was new out of the tranny system so I picked up 9 bottles of OEM m5 fluid from Flipdady. So now the question is do I need need Lubegard if I'm just replacing with OEM fluid? Cuz I don't think I've heard of Lubegard and also don't hear much talk of it when ppl have flushed/replaced tranny fluid.

[TheMAN]

if you're using the mazda fluid, then yes, I recommend lubegard
do your flushing first, then use the lubegard to top off as the last quart... you want to get the level in the pan "low" first before you attempt to top off, you don't want to flush the lubegard out because you want every drop of it you can in the tranny!