## Dexron Transmission Fluid: Compatibility and Applications
### What is Dexron Transmission Fluid?
Dexron is a brand name for a type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) developed and marketed by General Motors (GM). It is specifically designed for use in GM vehicles and some other makes and models. Dexron fluids are formulated to meet the specific requirements of GM’s automatic transmissions, providing optimal performance, protection, and durability.
### Dexron Fluid Specifications
Over the years, GM has released several iterations of the Dexron fluid specification, each denoting specific performance characteristics and compatibility with different transmission types. Here are the key Dexron fluid specifications:
#### Dexron-B
Introduced in the 1960s
Used in older GM vehicles with Powerglide, Jetaway, and Turbo-Hydramatic 325 and 400 transmissions
No longer recommended for use in modern vehicles
#### Dexron-C
Introduced in the mid-1970s
Designed for use in GM vehicles with Turbo-Hydramatic 250C, 350C, and 400 transmissions
Replaced Dexron-B and is still compatible with some older transmissions
#### Dexron-D
Introduced in the early 1980s
Formulated for use in GM vehicles with Turbo-Hydramatic 200-4R, 700R4, and 4L60 transmissions
Also compatible with many older GM vehicles
#### Dexron-E
Introduced in the late 1980s
Developed for use in GM vehicles with 4L60E and 4L80E electronically controlled transmissions
Not compatible with older GM transmissions
#### Dexron-III
Introduced in the mid-1990s
Designed for use in GM vehicles with 4L60E, 4L80E, and 4T65E transmissions
Backward compatible with Dexron-II and Dexron-D fluids
#### Dexron-IV
Introduced in 2004
Formulated for use in GM vehicles with 4L60E, 4L80E, and 4T65E transmissions
Backward compatible with Dexron-III, Dexron-II, and Dexron-D fluids
#### Dexron-VI
Introduced in 2006
Latest specification for GM automatic transmissions
Backward compatible with Dexron-IV, Dexron-III, Dexron-II, and Dexron-D fluids
Required for use in GM vehicles with 6-speed and newer automatic transmissions
### Compatible Vehicles
Dexron transmission fluids are primarily used in GM vehicles. However, some other makes and models may also use Dexron fluids, including:
Acura: Some models equipped with GM-designed transmissions
Buick: All models with automatic transmissions
Cadillac: All models with automatic transmissions
Chevrolet: All models with automatic transmissions
Chrysler: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
Daewoo: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
Dodge: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
GMC: All models with automatic transmissions
Holden: All models with GM-designed transmissions
Hummer: All models with automatic transmissions
Isuzu: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
Opel: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
Oldsmobile: All models with automatic transmissions
Pontiac: All models with automatic transmissions
Saturn: All models with automatic transmissions
Saab: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
Suzuki: Some models with GM-designed transmissions
### Application Guide
The following table provides a general guide to the appropriate Dexron fluid for different GM vehicle models and transmission types:
| Vehicle Year | Transmission Type | Dexron Fluid |
|—|—|—|
| 1960s-1970s | Powerglide, Jetaway, Turbo-Hydramatic 325, 400 | Dexron-B |
| 1970s-1980s | Turbo-Hydramatic 250C, 350C, 400 | Dexron-C |
| 1980s-1990s | Turbo-Hydramatic 200-4R, 700R4, 4L60 | Dexron-D |
| 1980s-2000s | 4L60E, 4L80E | Dexron-E |
| 1990s-2000s | 4L60E, 4L80E, 4T65E | Dexron-III |
| 2000s-present | 4L60E, 4L80E, 4T65E | Dexron-IV |
| 2000s-present | 6-speed and newer | Dexron-VI |
### Mixing and Compatibility
It is important to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic before mixing or changing transmission fluids. In general, it is recommended to use the specific Dexron fluid specified for your vehicle’s transmission type. Mixing different Dexron fluids can lead to performance issues, transmission damage, or voiding of the warranty.
### Alternatives to Dexron
In some cases, it may be necessary to use an alternative to Dexron transmission fluid. Here are some compatible substitutes:
Mercon: A transmission fluid developed by Ford Motor Company, compatible with some GM transmissions
Castrol Transmax: A line of transmission fluids compatible with Dexron-III and Dexron-IV fluids
Valvoline MaxLife: A high-performance transmission fluid compatible with Dexron-III and Dexron-IV fluids
Lucas DEX-MERC Transmission Fluid: A dedicated substitute for Dexron-III and Dexron-IV fluids
Note: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for the recommended transmission fluid and service intervals. Using an incorrect or incompatible fluid can result in damage to your vehicle’s transmission.