Just got my son a 2007 Acura TL Type S AT with 127k. So far he already put 1,200 miles on it since then. I’m gearing up on the next fluid change. Engine oil and transmission once it hits 130k. Thinking of going Amsoil. What’s this 3x3 I’m hearing about? He’s also complaining about his gas mileage 🤷🏽♂️. He’s not getting great gas mileage lol. His dad probably hitting vtec all the time whenever he’s drives it 🤪, ok ok I don’t drive his car much. The car is a little slow considering I’m used to driving V8’s lol. I just want to make sure this car serve him well for a very long time. Any input is highly appreciated!

 

Btw, old owner always replaced tranny fluid every oil change. Which I’m planning to also do.

 

3qts drained, 3qts filled, drive, repeat 2 more times....at least I think that is how it goes. I have a MT so don't have to deal with that.

 

Wait?? Wha?? Every oil change seems a tad excessive, but if it works for ya why not. I think for those that take it that far, it is usually not 3qts each time.....I think some just do a quart each time.

 

the method is called 3x3x3

drain 3 quarts, fill 3 quarts...Do this 3 times.
you're supposed to drive after the fill part, and one could theoretically drain and fill every oil change...

the reason for this method is because automatic transmissions have clutch packs and will hold fluid...only 3 quarts will come out at a time, when you go to drain

 

So I don’t need to do this method if I’m doing tranny drain and fill every oil change correct?

 

Sure, if you've got money to waste !

 

Correct, but why; I've been wrenching on cars for nearly 50 years and have never-ever heard of anybody changing ATF every oil change. IMHO, absolute waste of time, money, and resources.

FWIW, do NOT use Amsoil ATF, it does not have the correct coefficient of friction (CoF) properties and will in turn cause the clutch packs to wear too quickly. The only ATF you should be considering is Honda DW-1. Some folks will tell you Valvoline also has an ATF for these cars, however, that stuff is not certified to be compatible with DW-1.

 

that is the method...
drain 3 quarts, fill three quarts...

you're just wanting to do it indefinitely;

3x3xEvery oil change

while a 3x3x3 will suffice

 

Valvoline Maxlife Multi Vehicle ATF shows it's compatible with DW-1: https://sharena21.springcm.com/Publi...2-ac162d889bd1

Pretty well regarded fluid on the bobistheoilguy forums.

 

I guess this really comes down to how often you are getting your oil changed and if you have the ability (time & money) to do this every single oil change. If anything, there are lots of transmission threads from the past several years that talk about what people have done to extend the life of their auto trans. Maybe every other or every 3 oil changes do a 3x1? So many theories here to figure out what fits your risk tolerance. The most important thing is to not do any preventive maint of the transmission.

 

Actually, no it doesn't, what it says is Valvoline Maxlife is "suitable for use"..., that is not even remotely the same thing. The fact is, every manufacturer designs their transmissions to operate with a very specific coefficient of friction, and do you really believe all of those manufacturers are using the exact same CoF requirements? I for one call BS on that recommendation. As things stand, unless and until Valvoline certifies Maxlife is 100% compatible with DW-1 via an independent lab, then by definition, it is not compatible.

 

I get that you're saying that it's essentially "safer" from your perspective. I question whether it's any better. Our vehicles weren't even rated for DW-1 when they came out of the factory either.

From my perspective this is just control by Honda to sell overpriced fluids. Just like the power steering fluid and coolant they try to rip you off on in terms of price. IMO, there's no magical formulation for Honda fluids.

 

The thing about DW-1 is Honda designed it with the same CoF as the previous ATF-Z1, but with a superior base oil. The Maxlife stuff might be close, but unless you would be okay with running an ATF from say an Audi, or a Ford, or any GM vehicle, then you will certainly not be okay with running the Valvoline ATF.

 

Meh... opinions are like assholes, everyone's got one