4l60e Transmission Fluid Type & Capacity FAQ's
Finding the correct transmission fluid for your car, truck or SUV can sometimes be confusing. Luckily for us, the 4l60e is such a common transmission that it’s almost too easy to find the right transmission fluid. Below are a list of common 4l60e transmission fluid questions and answers to help guide you in the right direction as far as fluid type, maintenance, and more.
1. What Type of Transmission Fluid Does The 4l60e Use?
The recommeded transmission fluid for the GM 4l60e is Dexron 3 / Dexron 6 / Dex Merc.
Since its release in 1993, Dexron 3 (Dex III) was the recommended transmission fluid for the 4l60e. Overtime however, Dex III was phased out and GM released Dex VI in 2005. While Dex 6 is designed for newer vehicles and transmissions, it is backwards compatable with Dexron III transmission fluid.
NOTE: Dexron III cannot be used with transmissions that require Dexron VI.
Eventually, Dexron 3 was combined with Mercon and became Dex/Merc, which is the modern recommeded transmission fluid for 4l60e transmissions.
2. What Is The 4L60E's Fluid Capacity Dry, With Torque Converter, With Deep Pan?
The fluid capacity of the 4L60e is 12 quarts of transmission fluid (dry). This amount is based on a stock, “shallow” transmission pan with a 12″ torque converter. With a deep pan, the capacity of additional fluid can vary from an extra quart or more.
3. Should I Flush My 4l60e?
Flushing a transmission, even the 4L60e is a sensitive subject. Best practice is to do a fluid flush on your 4l60e as long as that has been routine maintenance. If not, then a simple fluid and filter change would suffice.
4. Best Transmission Fluid For 4l60e
As we’ve already pointed out, the best transmission fluid for 4l60e transmissions is any high quality Dexron 3 or Dexron 6.
5. 4l60e Fluid Change Intervals
We often get asked how often should I service or change the fluid in my 4l60e? Often, anywhere from 30-50,000 miles is acceptable, depending on usage. If your vehicle only sees highway miles, then you can wait to change your fluid when you are at the higher end of the spectrum.
If you see a lot of stop and go traffic, tow, or race, you should certainly replace the fluid in your 4l60e every 30,000 miles. If your fluid is dark and or has a burning smell to it, then it is past due, and you may have bigger problems on your hands.