If you own a Toyota vehicle, you may have wondered which type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is best for your car. Toyota recommends using its own brand of ATF, called Toyota WS, which stands for World Standard. However, some drivers prefer to use AMSOIL ATF, a synthetic fluid that claims to offer superior performance and protection. In this article, we will compare AMSOIL ATF and Toyota WS in terms of their specifications, benefits, drawbacks, and compatibility.
Specifications
AMSOIL ATF is a synthetic fluid that meets or exceeds the requirements of most major automakers, including Toyota. It has a viscosity of 6.9 cSt at 100°C, which is slightly lower than Toyota WS, which has a viscosity of 7.2 cSt at 100°C. Viscosity is a measure of how thick or thin a fluid is, and it affects how well the fluid flows and lubricates the transmission components. A lower viscosity means a thinner fluid that can flow more easily and reduce friction and heat.
AMSOIL ATF also has a higher flash point than Toyota WS, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without igniting. AMSOIL ATF has a flash point of 216°C, while Toyota WS has a flash point of 208°C. A higher flash point means a safer and more stable fluid that can resist oxidation and degradation.
AMSOIL ATF Benefits
AMSOIL ATF offers the following advantages:
- It provides better wear protection and longer service life than conventional fluids.
- It improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions by minimizing drag and friction.
- It enhances shifting performance and smoothness by preventing shudder and slippage.
- It resists thermal breakdown and maintains its properties under extreme conditions.
- It protects against rust, corrosion, and foam formation.
Toyota WS Benefits
Toyota WS offers the following advantages:
- It is specially formulated for Toyota vehicles and meets their specifications.
- It is compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid.
- It maintains its viscosity and performance over a wide temperature range.
- It reduces maintenance costs and frequency by extending the drain intervals.
Drawbacks of AMSOIL
AMSOIL ATF has the following disadvantages:
- It is more expensive than Toyota WS and may not be readily available at some locations.
- It may not be compatible with some older Toyota models that require different types of ATF.
- It may void the warranty of some Toyota vehicles if used without proper authorization.
Drawbacks of Toyota WS
Toyota WS has the following disadvantages:
- It may not provide adequate protection and performance for some newer Toyota models that require higher quality ATF.
- It may not be suitable for some driving conditions that require more frequent fluid changes.
- It may not be compatible with some aftermarket additives or fluids that may alter its properties.
Compatibility
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an ATF for your Toyota vehicle is compatibility. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the type of fluid that is specified for your model. Using the wrong type of fluid can cause damage to your transmission and affect its performance.
According to AMSOIL, their ATF is compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid, as well as other models that require different types of ATF, such as T-IV, T-III, Dexron III, Mercon V, etc. However, they also advise to check the owner’s manual or consult with a dealer before using their product.
According to Toyota, their WS fluid is compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid, but they do not recommend using it for other models that require different types of ATF. They also warn against mixing WS fluid with other fluids or additives, as this may cause problems with the transmission.
Summary Table
| Feature | AMSOIL ATF | Toyota WS |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity at 100°C (cSt) | 6.9 | 7.2 |
| Flash Point (°C) | 216 | 208 |
| Benefits | – Better wear protection and longer service life – Improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions – Enhanced shifting performance and smoothness – Resistance to thermal breakdown – Protection against rust, corrosion, and foam | – Specially formulated for Toyota vehicles – Compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid – Maintains viscosity and performance over a wide temperature range – Reduces maintenance costs and frequency |
| Drawbacks | – More expensive and less available – May not be compatible with some older Toyota models – May void warranty of some Toyota vehicles | – May not provide adequate protection and performance for some newer Toyota models – May not be suitable for some driving conditions – May not be compatible with some aftermarket additives or fluids |
| Compatibility | Compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid and other models that require different types of ATF | Compatible with all Toyota models that require WS fluid but not recommended for other models that require different types of ATF |