question about sp III autonatic transmisison fluid standard

[tghurgood]

I have a 2005 Hyundai Elantra. I have heard, and seen. that some folks say to use only Hyundai Brand SP III ATF for the automatic transmission of this vehicle. I am not the original owner of the car and much of its service history is shrouded in mystery, but the manual says to change the ATF (for the first time) at 105,000 miles. Currently the vehicle has only 90,000 miles. What I'm trying to say is that it most likely still contains the original ATF from the factory. So, I'm going to buy a quart of ATF and I was wondering if any ATF that meets SP III standard will do, or would it be better to use only the Hyundai brand to mix. thx.

 

[dave_the_nerd]

You need 4 quarts.

https://www.hyundaiforum.com/forum/...utomatic-transmission-service-7536/#post25277

The price difference between the off-brand SPIII and the Hyundai-branded stuff isn't huge. I would just get the "good stuff" and tell myself it makes a difference.

 

[NutBucket]

Agreed. A trans is expensive and few extra bucks for OEM fluid is cheap for peace of mind.

 

[razel]

Good ATF fluids are multi standard now. Valvoline Maxlife and Castrol Import ATF at your auto parts store will have you Hyundai's standard listed on the back as compatible. By the way, Maxlife at least in my area is $16-$18 and is a bargain, though they don't advertise is a synth ATF since definitions of what is synth becomes controversial. Your trans is probably closer to 11qt total. Draining from the bolt apparently gets you 4. And yes if you suspect any trans problems, start with 4 and see how it reacts. A complete flush with a suspect tranny often ends as an expensive story.