How to choose the right transmission oil for your car in Saudi Arabia? ATF and CVT Guide

The best transmission oil for your car in Saudi Arabia: the difference between ATF and CVT

Guys, many transmission problems in cars occur due to choosing the wrong transmission oil, especially with the high heat in Saudi Arabia, daily traffic, and long trips. In this simple guide, we will explain how to choose the right transmission oil for your car without complications, so you can maintain the performance of the transmission and extend its life.

What is transmission oil and why is it very important?

Transmission oil (or automatic transmission fluid) is the liquid that protects the internal parts of the transmission. Its main functions:

• It protects the transmission from friction and wear.
• It reduces the heat generated by movement.
• It extends the life of the transmission and ensures smooth gear shifting.

In Saudi Arabia, with the hot weather and traffic, choosing the right transmission oil protects the car from costly problems.

Types of transmission oils

Common main types:

🔹 ATF oil (regular automatic transmission fluid)

For the traditional automatic transmission (which uses gears and a clutch). Suitable for many Toyota, Ford, and other cars. It withstands heat and provides smooth shifting.

Excellent example:

Some Toyota cars specifically require the ATF-WS specification, and using ATF-WS transmission oil from Toyota ensures smooth performance and better protection for the transmission in Saudi conditions.

Also, in cases of severe usage or long driving, many owners prefer to use Amsoil ATF automatic transmission oil because it is designed to withstand high heat.

🔹 CVT oil (continuously variable transmission oil)

Specific for the CVT transmission (which uses a metal belt). It is very sensitive, and using the wrong oil can cause major problems like slipping or damage.

The CVT transmission is very sensitive, and using oil not designated for it can cause major problems, so it is recommended to use CVT transmission oil from Toyota that is designated for this type of transmission.

🔹 DCT oil

For the dual-clutch sports transmission, very precise specifications are needed.

The difference between ATF oil and CVT: ATF oil is for the regular transmission that relies on gears, while CVT oil is specifically designed for the metal belt and prevents slipping. Using ATF instead of CVT (or vice versa) causes rapid damage, especially in Saudi heat.

How do you choose the right transmission oil in Saudi Arabia's climate?

High temperatures, long trips, and traffic increase pressure on the transmission. Practical points for choosing the best transmission oil in Saudi Arabia:

✔ Adhere to the manufacturer's specifications (check the car manual).

✔ Never mix different oils.

✔ Choose oil specifically for hot weather and can withstand high temperatures (transmission oil for hot weather).

Some modern cars require low-viscosity oils like Amsoil ULV transmission oil to improve performance and reduce fuel consumption.

In SUVs or severe usage, 75W-90 transmission oil from Amsoil is considered an excellent choice to withstand pressure and heat.

Is CVT oil suitable for the heat in Saudi Arabia? Yes, if it is original and approved, because it is designed to withstand heat, but it must be changed regularly to maintain its efficiency.

When do you change the transmission oil?

When should I change the transmission oil or when is the automatic transmission oil changed? It depends on the type of car and usage, but generally:

• Every 40,000 to 80,000 km for the automatic transmission.
• In Saudi Arabia, with the traffic and heat, it is recommended to change every 40,000 - 60,000 km or earlier if the usage is severe.

Signs of oil degradation:

• Jerking or delay in shifting gears.
• Strange noise or vibration.
• Change in oil color to dark brown or a burnt smell.

Common mistakes made by car owners

• Using engine oil instead of transmission oil.
• Ignoring oil changes for long periods.
• Choosing the cheapest without considering the specifications.

Some additives like automatic transmission fluid ATF help improve shifting smoothness and reduce vibration, but they must be used with suitable and certified oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between ATF oil and CVT oil? ATF oil is designed for regular automatic transmissions, while CVT oil is designed for continuously variable transmissions and differs in composition. Using non-specific oil can cause problems in the transmission, especially with the heat in Saudi Arabia.
2. Can I use ATF oil instead of CVT oil? No, this is a common mistake. The CVT transmission requires a specific oil, and using ATF oil instead of CVT can cause damage to the transmission over time.
3. When should I change the transmission oil in Saudi Arabia? It is preferable to change it every 40,000 to 60,000 km depending on the type of car and usage, and with the traffic and high heat in Saudi Arabia, regular checks are recommended.
4. Does the temperature affect the transmission oil? Yes, high temperatures accelerate the degradation of transmission oil and reduce its efficiency, so it's necessary to choose oil specifically designed for hot weather, such as oils certified for use in Saudi Arabia.
5. What is the best transmission oil for Toyota cars? It depends on the type of transmission, but many Toyota cars require ATF-WS oil or original CVT oil depending on the type of transmission, and adhering to the specification is very important.
6. Are Amsoil oils suitable for use in Saudi Arabia? Yes, Amsoil oils are designed to withstand high temperatures and harsh use, making them an excellent choice for long drives and traffic in Saudi Arabia.
7. Is adding automatic transmission fluid necessary? Additives are not always necessary, but they help improve shifting smoothness and reduce vibration if used with suitable and certified oil.
8. What are the signs that the transmission oil needs to be changed? Jerking or delay in shifting, noise or vibration, change in oil color or smell. In this case, it's preferable to change the transmission oil immediately.

Summary

Choosing the right transmission oil makes a big difference in the lifespan of the transmission and the car's performance, especially in the heat of Saudi Arabia. At Lozojah Store we provide original and certified transmission oils suitable for various types of cars and uses, with fast delivery across the Kingdom.

Don't forget to check the transmission oil regularly, and consult a specialist if you suspect any problem. Safe driving! 🚗