I have two Hondas. One a 2002 Accord 4 cylinder manual transmission, one a 1998 Civic Auto transmission. In the owner's manuals, it says you have to use Honda ATF-Z1 Automatic transmisssion fluid for automatics and Honda MTF (manual transmission fluid) for manual transmissions. I've heard that you can just use Dextron-III ATF for the automatic and SAE 10-30 (or 40) for the manual.
What's the real truth?

 

I think you are safe using non-Honda fluid for the manual, but I would use Honda ATF in the automatic.

 

yep i agree with EX,,,,,,,,,,if you have the extra money use Honda MTF as well , it will have a smoother shift,, but absolutely use ATF-Z1 on the auto tranny

 

I agree as well for the automatic use the z1 just to be sure, on my accord i have used 10W30 in the trans forever and i haven't had any issues at all

 

In so fars as Manual Transmission Fluid, I have used both Honda MTF and Redline MTF and I can tell you my 5 speed Accord shifts smoother with Redline fluid, specially when cold.

 

Still shifting as smooth as can be after 168K miles. I probably don't have to but change it every 50K miles or so...

Michael