Auto Trans Fluid for 2001 C70 - recommendations

Before those few of you tell me that the auto trans shouldn't require
service, let me tell you that I have a need to replace the fluid in my C-70.
Nuff said.

Now the question. The owner's manual says "use only special Volvo fluid" I
can't find any of that stuff for sale. Dealer tells me he can't sell what
they use in containers. Everyone's solution; bring it on in and we'll do it
for you.

Well I want to do it myself, and I know how, I am just looking for opinions
on replacement fluid that I can use. Dexron III like my older 850???

 

AFAIK the spec calls for a fully synthetic Dexron III type fluid. If you're
going to change the fluid every ~20,000miles this will be fine.

Tim..

 

What about Mobil 1 synthetic trans fluid?

 

Dexron III is not a good fluid for the Volvo 5 speed automatics. Other
than the genuine Volvo fluid, I don't know of anything available, but
that doesn't mean that it's not out there. I don't have a car with one
of those transmissions, so I'm not too worried about it yet.

 

That still doesnt explain what is wrong with using a fully syntheitc dexron
III style fluid from anyone who makes one. Whats so special about Volvo's
synthetic fluid??

Tim..

 

On your owner's manual. For my '98s (4 speed auto) the owner's manual
specifies Dexron IIE/III and Mercon. Yours doesn't. Now I think (and
I'm basing this only on general knowledge, I don't know anything
specific) the only difference between Dexron and the Volvo fluid
specified in your manual is the friction modifiers, which affects how
smoothly the transmission shifts, and you won't damage anything with
Dexron III. However, if it were my transmission, I would only put in
the specified fluid, or a fluid from a reputable company that
specifically mentioned that it was OK for use in your particular
transmission. Unfortunately for us, lots of carmakers have gone to
their own transmission fluid formulations, a far cry from the days when
there was only Dexron and Type F.