One of the most trusted multi-vehicle ATFs available today is Valvoline MaxLife ATF. It’s specifically formulated for high-mileage vehicles and is compatible with a wide range of automatic transmissions from different manufacturers.
This article provides a detailed compatibility chart to help you determine if Valvoline MaxLife ATF is suitable for your vehicle. You’ll also learn why it’s a go-to fluid for professional mechanics and DIY car owners.
Valvoline MaxLife ATF Compatibility Chart
| Manufacturer | Original ATF Specification | Compatible With Valvoline MaxLife ATF | Notes/Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Motors (GM) | DEXRON-II, DEXRON-III, DEXRON-VI | ✅ Yes | Compatible with most GM cars, trucks, and SUVs pre-2023. |
| Ford | MERCON, MERCON V, MERCON SP | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury; not for Type F or MERCON LV. |
| Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM | ATF+3, ATF+4 | ✅ Yes | Works with most Chrysler automatics, including 42RE, 46RE, 68RFE. |
| Toyota/Lexus/Scion | Type T, Type T-II, Type T-IV, WS | ✅ Partial | Compatible with T-IV; not for WS unless approved. |
| Honda/Acura | ATF-Z1 (except CVT & DW-1) | ✅ Yes | Ideal for pre-2011 models using ATF-Z1. |
| Nissan/Infiniti | Matic-D, Matic-J, Matic-K | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Matic-D/J/K; not for CVT or Matic-S. |
| Hyundai/Kia | SP-II, SP-III, SP-IV | ✅ Yes | Works for SP-II & SP-III; SP-IV may require OEM fluid. |
| Mazda | M-III, M-V | ✅ Yes | Works for older Mazda automatics. |
| Subaru | ATF, Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with most 4-speed and 5-speed transmissions. |
| Mitsubishi | SP-II, SP-III | ✅ Yes | Fully compatible with older Mitsubishi models. |
| BMW | LA2634, LT71141 | ✅ Partial | Compatible with LT71141; not with ZF Lifeguard 6/8. |
| Mercedes-Benz | MB 236.9, MB 236.10 | ✅ Partial | Works for older Benz transmissions; not 7G-Tronic. |
| Volkswagen/Audi | G052162A1, G052990A2 | ✅ Partial | For older automatics; not DSG or CVT systems. |
| Volvo | 1161540, 1161640 | ✅ Partial | For Dexron-III type Volvo transmissions. |
| Saab | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Fully compatible with older Saab automatics. |
| Isuzu | Dexron II/III | ✅ Yes | Recommended for most Isuzu ATF systems. |
| Suzuki | Dexron II/III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with most Suzuki models before 2010. |
| Jaguar | LT71141 | ✅ Partial | Works with older Jaguar transmissions. |
| Peugeot/Citroën | LT71141 | ✅ Yes | Compatible with PSA vehicles using LT71141. |
| Renault | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Works for Renault automatics requiring Dexron III. |
| Fiat/Alfa Romeo | ATF Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for older Fiat/Alfa models. |
| Land Rover | Dexron III, LT71141 | ✅ Partial | Compatible with LT71141-type units. |
| Chevrolet Trucks | Dexron VI | ✅ Yes | Ideal for Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, etc. |
| GMC Trucks | Dexron VI | ✅ Yes | For Yukon, Sierra, Canyon models. |
| Saturn | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with all Saturn automatics. |
| Pontiac/Buick/Oldsmobile | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Fully compatible with older GM brands. |
| Lincoln | MERCON V | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Town Car, Navigator, etc. |
| Mercury | MERCON V | ✅ Yes | Compatible with Sable, Mountaineer, etc. |
| Daihatsu | Dexron II | ✅ Yes | Works with older Daihatsu automatics. |
| Holden | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with most Holden models. |
| Opel/Vauxhall | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for older Opel and Vauxhall vehicles. |
| Porsche | ATF Dexron III | ✅ Partial | Compatible with early Tiptronic systems. |
| Mini Cooper | LT71141 | ✅ Partial | Works for older Mini automatics (pre-2010). |
| Saic/MG | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for MG and Roewe models with standard ATF. |
| Chery/Geely | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Works for most Chinese-brand automatic transmissions. |
| Tata Motors | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with Tata Safari and older models. |
| Great Wall Motors | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Wingle and Haval automatic transmissions. |
| SsangYong | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Works with Musso, Rexton, and Kyron automatics. |
| Proton | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with Proton models using traditional automatics. |
| Daewoo | Dexron II/III | ✅ Yes | Works for Lanos, Nubira, Leganza, etc. |
| Perodua | Dexron II | ✅ Yes | For older 4-speed automatic models. |
| Scania | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for older Scania bus/truck transmissions. |
| MAN Trucks | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Compatible with most MAN heavy-duty vehicles. |
| Mack Trucks | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Recommended for heavy-duty Mack applications. |
| Freightliner | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Works for Allison automatic systems. |
| Allison Transmission | TES-389 | ✅ Yes | Meets requirements for TES-389 specification. |
| Caterpillar | TO-2 | ✅ Yes | Compatible with older Caterpillar on-road transmissions. |
| John Deere | JDM J20C | ✅ Partial | Works with automatic systems needing Dexron III type. |
| Case IH/New Holland | MAT 3525 | ✅ Partial | Suitable where Dexron III is approved. |
| Kubota | UDT | ✅ Partial | Compatible for general-purpose hydraulic-transmission use. |
| Hino Trucks | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Hino automatic trucks and buses. |
| Kenworth/Peterbilt | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Works for Eaton or Allison automatic systems. |
| Volvo Trucks | Dexron III | ✅ Yes | Suitable for Volvo commercial automatics. |
| Mitsubishi Fuso | ATF SP-II/SP-III | ✅ Yes | Works for Fuso truck transmissions requiring SP-II/III. |
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Why Choose Valvoline MaxLife ATF?
Here are the top benefits of using Valvoline MaxLife ATF:
- Wide Compatibility – Covers multiple OEM specs, reducing the need for multiple ATF types.
- High-Mileage Protection – Contains conditioners that prevent seal hardening and reduce leaks.
- Enhanced Performance – Provides smoother gear shifts and reliable operation under extreme temperatures.
- Oxidation Resistance – Prevents sludge and varnish buildup for longer transmission life.
- Cost-Effective – One bottle can replace several OEM-branded ATFs, saving money on maintenance.
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Vehicles Suitable for Valvoline MaxLife ATF
Valvoline MaxLife ATF works best for:
- Passenger cars and SUVs from the 1990s to the mid-2010s
- Pickup trucks and vans with high mileage
- Light commercial vehicles using traditional torque converter automatics
- Older vehicles requiring DEXRON, MERCON, or similar fluids
Not recommended for:
- Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT)
- Dual-Clutch Transmissions (DCT)
- Certain modern 8- or 10-speed transmissions require low-viscosity OEM-specific fluids
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Tips for Using Valvoline MaxLife ATF
- Always check your owner’s manual before switching to a multi-vehicle ATF.
- If your car previously used OEM fluid, consider a complete fluid exchange rather than a partial refill.
- Use only in automatic transmissions, not in CVT or manual gearboxes unless specified.
- For the best results, flush the system and replace the filter (if applicable).
FAQs
What is Valvoline MaxLife ATF compatible with?
Valvoline MaxLife ATF is compatible with a wide range of automatic transmission fluids including DEXRON-II, DEXRON-III, DEXRON-VI, MERCON, MERCON V, ATF+3, ATF+4, Toyota Type T-IV, Nissan Matic-D/J/K, and Honda ATF-Z1. It works with most GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, and other major vehicle brands. However, it is not recommended for CVT or DCT transmissions unless specifically approved.
Is MaxLife compatible with all car brands?
No, Valvoline MaxLife ATF is compatible with most but not all car brands. It can be safely used in many American, European, and Asian vehicles, especially those requiring Dexron- or Mercon-type fluids. However, certain modern transmissions, such as CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) systems, require specialized fluids and should not use MaxLife ATF.
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Is Valvoline MaxLife transmission fluid compatible with Dexron HP?
Valvoline MaxLife ATF is not officially listed as compatible with Dexron HP. Dexron HP is a low-viscosity, high-performance fluid designed for newer 8-, 9-, and 10-speed GM transmissions. While MaxLife ATF covers DEXRON-VI applications, it should not be used in place of Dexron HP for late-model GM vehicles.
Can I use Valvoline MaxLife ATF in Honda Civic?
Yes, you can use Valvoline MaxLife ATF in older Honda Civic models that originally specified Honda ATF-Z1. It performs well and provides smooth shifting. However, for newer Civics requiring DW-1 or CVT fluid, you should use Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 or Honda CVT Fluid to ensure proper compatibility and performance.
Can I mix MaxLife ATF with other fluids?
It’s best not to mix Valvoline MaxLife ATF with other brands or types of ATF. While it is designed to be compatible with many OEM formulations, mixing fluids can dilute the additives and reduce performance or protection. If switching from another fluid, it’s recommended to perform a full transmission fluid exchange for optimal results.
What are signs of bad ATF?
Signs of bad or worn-out ATF include:
- Rough or delayed shifting between gears
- Slipping gears or erratic transmission behavior
- Dark brown or burnt-smelling fluid
- Leaking transmission fluid under the vehicle
- Transmission overheating or whining noises
- If you notice these symptoms, check your ATF level and condition immediately. Replacing it with Valvoline MaxLife ATF can often restore smoother operation if caught early.
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Final words
Valvoline MaxLife ATF stands out as one of the best multi-vehicle transmission fluids on the market. Its broad compatibility, protection features, and synthetic formula make it an excellent choice for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. Whether you drive a Ford, Toyota, GM, or Nissan, there’s a good chance that MaxLife ATF can keep your transmission running smoothly for years to come.
