I used Valvoline Maxlife Dex/Merc because I couldn't get any Honda ATF last night. I wanted to get some new in as soon as possible. Flush out the old and then leave Honda ATF once I can get some.

 

Then you need to fill and drain 3 times with Honda ATF

That Dex/Merc is worse then the old fluid - IMO

 

Honda transmissions are picky about the fluid. Hopefully changing with Honda ATF will solve the problem. Just remember that the 98-02 transmissions were prone to have failures.

 

Is Honda ATF really that much better or is it just recomended for these cars? Think I need to do a change as well.

 

Read the quote above you then read it again.

I put some Mer/Dex in my car and 6 months later mine blew.

Many others have had the same experence.

These transmissions like Honda Fluid Only

 

Do I need to go the dealer to get Honda ATF?

 

Yes you do or you can order it online but I recommend you ASAP change your fluid to HONDA fluid.

 

I would buy 10 quarts drain your fluid, add 3 quarts drive it a for a few miles and repeat procedure 2 more times making sure to fill to the correct level on the 3rd fill which should be about 2.5 quarts.

 

Again, there was another post today about this....not sure if this is the same.

I know that carquest carries Honda DW-1 fluid, I think for $8. I'm betting you can get it for less from the dealer since they have to buy if from a dealership and re-sell it. Or you can look online for someone selling it - ebay?

 

Crazy stuff. I guess I will be picking some up when I change mine.