Mobil-1 changed their ATF formula...
 

It seems that Mobil can't leave a good thing alone. They changed their Mobil-1 ATF recently to a new "Multi-Vehicle Formula". It has a distinctly different odor than either the previous formula, or the Mercedes ATF. What I don't like is the wording on the bottle - check out this text from the M-1 ATF "MVF" data sheet:

First, it says:
"Recommended by ExxonMobil for use in 2005 and earlier GM vehicles."

OK, that sounds fine for MB (Dexron) use. But the next sentence says:
"Mobil DEXRON-VI ATF is recommended for ... improved performance in 2005 and earlier GM vehicles."


So let me get this straight. It's The new M-1 ATF is "recommended" for pre-2005 GM vehicles (i.e., Dexron applications). But for "improved" performance in those same vehicles, we should use their NON-synthetic Dexron-VI fluid? What gives? Also, the new bottle mentions "Mercon" frequently, but says little about Dexron.

I managed to scrape up 7 quarts of the old M-1 ATF, and 1 quart of MB fluid, to use in my E500 tranny last night. I really don't like the acrid smell of the new stuff, along with the conflicting statements on the new bottle. Does anyone have more info on this new M-1 "MVF" ATF, or opinions in general...? BTW - the new stuff is also CHEAPER. Wal-Mart has it for $5.67/qt, where the previous M-1 ATF was closer to $7/qt.

Side question: Does anyone know if the OE/dealer fluid is synthetic fluid, or not? (Part # is 001-989-21-03-10, the bottle says "Made In Germany"). I'm VERY tempted to switch to either that (if it's synthetic), or Amsoil/RedLine ATF, for future trans fluid changes in my MB's.

:mad: :mad: :mad:

The MB number 001-989-21-03-10 was replaced by 001-989-45-03-10.

Both are Dexron "based" trans fluids. You can safely use that fluid on any MB auto trans!

Good info - thanks! But are either one of them a synthetic fluid...?

:confused:

If you have both MB (not synthetic) and Mobile 1 (synthetic) ATF which one would you prefer to use on a 600SEL 1992 and a 560SEL?

If you can get the "old" Mobil-1 formula ATF, I'd prefer that over the MB fluid. However, you really can't go wrong with the OE fluid from the dealership.

After further research on the "new" Mobil-1 fluid (Mercon V), I've decided that I don't want to use it in my Mercedes transmissions. It's not officially Dexron-approved.

:grim:

If I'm not mistaken, they have stopped licensing Dexron, therefore no currently manufactured ATF can officially call itself Dexron any more.

What replaces Dexron 3????
 

I was looking for Dexron 3 recently and the stores had none. Lots of other ATF designations but no Dexron 3. What should I use to replace it? :confused:

Mobil is currently selling Dexron VI "synthetic blend" ATF, so they must have some kind of current licensing deal:

http://www.mobil1.com/USA-English/MotorOil/Other_Products/Mobil_Dexron_VI_ATF.aspx

:confused:

You're looking for something that's officially approved for Dexron... the current revision is Dexron VI. Most standard fluids do have some kind of Dexron approval, it just may not say "Dexron III" since that's a relatively old spec.

:(

Just use Amsoil or Redline.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dexron

Still looking for something with a more in-depth explanation.

Is part # z8001-107773 full synthetic ?
why is this one $14 a liter

FWIW...I used Castrol Transmax Z Fully Synthetic ATF during my recent C36 AMG transmission ATF fluid change. I am very impressed with the quicker gear engagement and silky smooth gear changes.

http://www.castrol.com/liveassets/bp_internet/castrol/castrol_australia/STAGING/local_assets/downloads/a/AU_Castrol_Transmax_Z.pdf

That is very likely what I will end up doing. It's just that Mobil-1 was easier to obtain than Amsoil or Redline (and maybe a bit cheaper, too).

:thinking:

I know thats why I was using M1. But it seems like they keep screwing with their product.:dizzy2: