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It's time for the first transmission fluid change. Should I use the Honda transmission fluid, Mobil 1 10W-30, or something else?

 
Rep Power: 217

I use Redline MTL synthetic in my car. I love it. It really shines in cold weather, which is the main reason I bought it. Honda MTF isn't bad either. I think Amsoil makes an MTF as well. No hands on experience with it though.

 
Rep Power: 253

I think putting motor oil for a manual transmission is ok. However its only for TEMPORARY purposes. I believe manual fluids have additives for the gears that engine oil does not have. I use OEM tranny fluid on my S2000. My Civic is an auto and I use OEM stuff as well. I think its more important to stick to OEM fluids for autos then for manual cars.

 
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Looks like I'll stick with the Honda MTF. Redline lists a transaxle fluid with a much higher weight in their application guide, but that doesn't seem right to use a 75W oil when Honda specifies something 10W.

 
Rep Power: 217

It's the equivalent. It won't do anything to the transmission. You need to look at the GL number and other things. If you go on their site, it should explain it. I'm not pushing you to buy it, just letting you know that there's more to it.

 
Rep Power: 210

I used Honda MTF. I have heard that GM makes a fluid for their manual transmissions that people on other sites like.

As far as using motor oil, I wouldn't. The pressure and shear forces in gears break down and wear oil differently than an engine. I'm not saying engine oil could not be used but I would want to see the manufacturer state that it is OK and the trany was designed for it.

 
Rep Power: 217

From what I've read from Honda, you can use motor oil for a brief period, but not as a substitute. Your description pretty much nails it.

 
Rep Power: 294

Royal Purple Synchromax MTF. Used Motul, good stuff, but a little too pricey for me.

 
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TRANSAXLE IS NOT TRANSMISSION. automatic transmissions sometimes have gearboxes with gear oil.

 
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For fluid, I always prefer to use OEM stuff.

BTW, anyone know how many quarts of MTF is required for 7th gen civic?

 
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1.6 or 1.7 I believe.
Quarts that is...