Suitable substitutes for the Toyota ATF-WS transmission or transaxle fluid?

Hello All:

I just joined PriusChat but have read numerous forums on the site for years which helped me with my 2017 Prius’s maintenance program. There seems to be a lively discussion regarding the use of other sourced WS-rated ATFs in the Prius CVT other than the genuine Toyota WS or Toyota’s CVT FE.

A quick check for other sources of WS-like fluids revealed that Redline has a fluid (D6 ATF) that has been successfully used in Prius CVTs for years.

And, a call today to Valvoline directed me to a recent update from Valvoline regarding their recommendations for various vehicles.

Information about Valvoline’s ATF on the website states the following: “Maxlife Multi-Vehicle transmission fluid is recommended for use in most belt and chain-driven continuously variable transmissions* and will not void new car warranties."

This source page references CVTs on page 4 - it states the Maxlife ATF works for both Toyota’s CVT FE and CVT TC. It’s my understanding that Toyota now recommends their branded CVT FE for the 2017 Prius.

NOTE: If you research, a photo of the Toyota’s CVT FE 4 liter can (08886-02505) states that the product is manufactured in Japan, but Exxon Mobil is also listed on the side of the 4 liter can. Interesting.

So, what to use? Use Toyota’s branded ATF if that makes you happy. I’ve used both Castrol’s WS-rated ATF once (couldn’t find the Valvoline ATF at Wally Mart) and used Valvoline’s Maxlife Multi-vehicle ATF three times in my 2017 Prius without any issues. On my next fluid change, I’ll think I’ll try Redline’s D6 just for fun.

NOTE: I’ve changed the Prius’s CVT fluid approximately every 25,000 miles (or about every 2 to 3 years) with the first change at about 5,000 miles. I changed it more often than most because my Prius was formerly driven in the 100+ degree summer heat in Texas.

NOTE: my 2017 has 96,000 miles to date.

Do your own research and use what makes you happy. And, no offenses intended to anyone regarding their Prius CVT fluid recommendations.


OlympicPNW

 

Since you have a 4th Generation Prius, it would probably be best to go to that forum
because you get better information for your Prius.

There is NO point in getting aftermarket transmission fluid. The cost difference is only
a dollar or two. So why risk using something that is supposed to be compatible when you
can get the correct fluid designed for you vehicle?

 

A dollar or two? Really.

I was quoted $18.95/quart for Toyota’s WS at a Toyota Dealership in Washington this week. The CVT requires 3.8 quarts. So, that’s $75.80 for 4 quarts; Wally Mart has a gallon of Valvoline Maxlife ATF for $25.92.

If my ciphering is correct, the Toyota brand costs $49.88 more for a CVT change not including state and local taxes.

And, the maintenance information on 3rd Generation Priuses is also beneficial for those than own 4th Gens as well.

Have a Good Day.

 

How much is a toasted transaxle going to cost? Probably reduce the car to scrap value. Not saying it's going to happen, but Toyota directly warns against using anything else, saying it may damage the transaxle. In the Owner's Manual.