Can I use Dexron II ATF instead of Dexron III?

Dantheman · 31st October 2011, 09:26

Just checking fluid levels and Power Steering fluid is down to near the low mark line.

My last car (1998 BMW 520) used Dexron II - and I have a 3/4 full bottle of Dexron II ATF.

A pity to waste it. I am pretty sure you can use Dexron III where Dexron II is specified - but unsure if I can use Dexron II where Dexron III is specified.

I wont get a chance to get to autoparts store to buy new ATF until end of week, so if I can use the Dexron II which I have this would be practical. Thanks for help.

oldcarguy · 31st October 2011, 11:51

I would wait till weekend, just bought Dexron III for mine, and like you I have Dexron II in the garage. Seals in modern cars need a different oil to the older motors and that is where any problems will arise a little further down the line.

FlashHarry · 31st October 2011, 20:55

My Haynes manual says Dexron 111. I wouldn't risk anything else, just not worth it.

31st October 2011, 09:26	#1
Dantheman Avid contributor rover75 2003 2.5V6 Connoisseur Auto Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Stockport, Cheshire Posts: 212 Thanks: 0 Thanked 28 Times in 12 Posts	Can I use Dexron II ATF instead of Dexron III? Just checking fluid levels and Power Steering fluid is down to near the low mark line. My last car (1998 BMW 520) used Dexron II - and I have a 3/4 full bottle of Dexron II ATF. A pity to waste it. I am pretty sure you can use Dexron III where Dexron II is specified - but unsure if I can use Dexron II where Dexron III is specified. I wont get a chance to get to autoparts store to buy new ATF until end of week, so if I can use the Dexron II which I have this would be practical. Thanks for help.

31st October 2011, 11:51	#2
oldcarguy Posted a thing or two Rover 75 Conn SE Tourer Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Driffield Posts: 1,952 Thanks: 27 Thanked 151 Times in 125 Posts	I would wait till weekend, just bought Dexron III for mine, and like you I have Dexron II in the garage. Seals in modern cars need a different oil to the older motors and that is where any problems will arise a little further down the line.

31st October 2011, 20:55	#3
FlashHarry Avid contributor Rover 75 Tourer Connoisseur 2.0 CDT Manual Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Newark Posts: 129 Thanks: 37 Thanked 10 Times in 9 Posts	My Haynes manual says Dexron 111. I wouldn't risk anything else, just not worth it.