Gear Oil – Types, Specifications and Selection Guide
Everything important about manual, automatic, CVT and dual-clutch transmissions: Specifications, viscosities and what to look for when making your selection.
What is Gear Oil?
Gear oil lubricates gears, bearings and synchronizer rings, dampens shocks, dissipates heat and protects against wear and corrosion. Depending on the transmission type (manual, automatic, CVT, DSG/DCT), formulations and specifications vary greatly.
- Stable lubricating films under high pressure (EP additives)
- Thermal and oxidative stability
- Compatibility with friction pairings (clutches, synchronizers)
- Cold flow properties and shifting comfort
In Brief
Transmissions are sensitive to incorrect friction values. Use exactly the specification required by the manufacturer.
Transmission Types and Typical Oils
Each transmission type requires its own friction values and specifications.
Manual Transmission
Mostly GL-4/GL-5 oils in 75W-80 / 75W-90 / 80W-90. Pay attention to shifting comfort and synchronizer compatibility.
Automatic (ATF)
Special ATF according to OEM specifications (e.g. Dexron, Mercon, MB 236.x). Friction value stable over lifetime.
CVT
Specific CVT fluids for steel belt or cone pulley CVT. High shear stability, defined friction characteristics.
DSG/DCT
Fluids for wet/dry dual-clutch transmissions. Exact friction values for clutch packs and hydraulics.
Specifications and Approvals
Important standards and manufacturer approvals for gear oils:
- API GL: GL-4/GL-5 for hypoid gears and axles.
- OEM: VW G 052/G 060, MB 235.x/236.x, ZF TE-ML, BMW MTF, Honda MTF, Toyota WS, and many more.
- ATF/CVT/DSG: Dexron, Mercon, MB 236.xx, ZF Lifeguard, JASO and manufacturer-specific approvals.
Pay attention to exact approvals – wrong friction values lead to shifting problems and premature wear.
Tip
For mixed fleets (cars, vans, trucks), an overview of OEM approvals is worthwhile to reduce product variety.
Request ConsultationMaintenance, Intervals and Guidelines
- Follow change intervals and fill quantities according to OEM.
- Do not use universal fluids when specific approvals are required.
- For ATF/CVT/DSG: Strictly follow temperature and fill level specifications.
- Do not mix different specifications without approval.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Wrong API GL class
- ATF instead of MTF (or vice versa)
- Non-approved universal oils
- Wrong fill level/temperature during ATF service
Frequently Asked Questions About Gear Oil
Briefly answered – for workshops and demanding users.
Can I use GL-5 instead of GL-4?
Does ATF never need to be changed?
Are CVT and DSG oils interchangeable?
Need the Right Gear Oil?
We support you in your selection – for smooth shifting and maximum lifespan.