Skip to content 
Chrysler developed ATF+4 in 1998 to solve torque converter shudder problems that plagued earlier transmissions equipped with controlled slip clutches. The formula replaced the older ATF+3, which Chrysler discontinued in 2005.
Mopar ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid is formulated to meet Chrysler’s MS-9602 specification. It is compatible with any Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Plymouth transmission originally filled with ATF+4, and it’s backward-compatible with transmissions that specified ATF+, ATF+2, or ATF+3.
You’ll find ATF+4 in automatic transmissions like the 68RFE, 42RLE, and 62TE, along with certain transfer cases and power steering systems built after 1999. Don’t use it in Crossfire or Sprinter transmissions, which require different fluids entirely.
Mopar ATF+4 Equivalent
The Mopar ATF+4 equivalents above meet the quality standards and are fit for use. They meet and even surpass quality standards set by various car manufacturers. However, if your vehicle is still under warranty, you should stick with OEM products. Otherwise, dealers may void it when they discover any deviation from the recommended ATF.
related: Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Equivalent
Mopar ATF+4
Mopar 68218057AB ATF+4
Mopar ATF+4 is the OEM automatic transmission fluid manufactured by Stellantis (formerly FCA US LLC) for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Plymouth vehicles.
The friction modifiers in ATF+4 are formulated to match the exact clutch materials and electronic shift programming Chrysler uses in their transmissions. This isn’t a generic specification you can approximate with universal fluids.
The viscosity measures 30-35 cSt at 40°C and 7.3-7.7 cSt at 100°C. The viscosity index sits around 220, which keeps the fluid stable across the temperature range from cold starts at -41°C up to operating temperatures where thermal breakdown becomes a concern.
Specific gravity is 0.848-0.851 at 15.6°C. Flash point (Cleveland Open Cup) runs 184-218°C, well above operating temperatures in even the hardest-working transmissions. The fluid is dyed red for identification during service work and leak diagnosis.
The base oil uses Group III synthetics with kinematic viscosity under 20.5 cSt at 40°C. The additive package includes calcium alkyl sulfonates for detergency, substituted hydrocarbyl sulfides for anti-wear protection, borated esters, and ethoxylated amines. These components are carefully balanced to provide the friction characteristics Chrysler transmissions require.
Rust and corrosion inhibitors keep internal components clean over extended service intervals. The friction modifiers eliminate the shudder that plagued earlier Chrysler transmissions.
Pros
- Extends and improves the life of automatic transmissions
- Prevents oxidation under heat and operates well under low temperatures
- Proper lubrication of gears for smooth operation
- Prevents rust, corrosion, and deposits
- Has improved anti-wear properties
- Reduces friction
Cons
- It is not possible to tell the condition of the fluid from its color as it changes within a short time
Valvoline ATF+4
Valvoline ATF +4 Full Synthetic
Valvoline ATF Pro +4 is a licensed aftermarket equivalent to Mopar ATF+4, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602.
Its viscosity measures 34.1 mm²/s at 40°C and 7.55 mm²/s at 100°C, falling within MS-9602 specification. Viscosity index is 198, maintaining stable operation across temperature ranges. Pour point of -48°C exceeds the specification minimum of -41°C for excellent cold-start protection.
Flash point (Cleveland Open Cup) measures 196°C with specific gravity of 0.851 at 15.6°C. Premium base oils and balanced additive system deliver superior protection against wear, corrosion, oxidation, foaming, and deposits. The friction modifiers ensure smooth shifting and prevent torque converter shudder in Chrysler transmissions with electronic lockup controls.
Also compatible with:
- Chrysler MS-7176E (ATF+3)
- Chrysler MS-7176D (ATF+2)
- Chrysler MS-7176 (ATF+)
- Fiat 9.55550-AV4
- Select Hyundai and Mitsubishi applications where MS-9602 is specified
Pros
- Ensures maximum power transfer by the anti-shudder protection
- Anti-wear technology guarantees you durability
- Easy flow in cold temperatures ensures lubrication throughout
- Resistance to breaking down in high temperature prevents corrosion and oxidation
Cons
- Not compatible with some older transmission models
Castrol Transmax ATF+4
Castrol Transmax ATF+4
Castrol Transmax ATF+4 is a licensed aftermarket equivalent to Mopar ATF+4, carrying Fiat Chrysler approval under license number 40630033.
The viscosity measures 33.24 mm²/s at 40°C and 7.51 mm²/s at 100°C, falling within the ATF+4 specification range. Viscosity index sits at 204, maintaining stability across temperature extremes. The pour point of -51°C exceeds the MS-9602 minimum of -41°C, providing superior cold-start protection.
The licensing means Castrol’s formulation matches the exact friction modifier requirements Chrysler engineered for their transmissions. Cost typically runs 20-30% less than dealer-purchased Mopar fluid with identical protection.
Also compatible with:
- Mopar ATF+3
- ATF+2
- ATF+2 Type 7176
- ATF+
related: Mopar Coolant Equivalent [OAT & HOAT]
Frequently Asked Questions About ATF+4
Are all ATF+4 equivalent fluids licensed by Chrysler?
No, only fluids that pass Chrysler’s testing program and use specific components (like Lubrizol additives) receive official licensing to use the ATF+4 trademark.
How can I verify that an equivalent fluid meets the ATF+4 specification?
Check the product label for Chrysler’s license number and confirm the fluid appears on the official list maintained by the Center for Quality Assurance. Licensed fluids will have the license number printed directly on the container.
Is a multi-vehicle ATF safe to use as a substitute for ATF+4?
Multi-vehicle ATFs aren’t licensed by Chrysler and could give a dealer grounds to deny warranty coverage if transmission problems develop. If you’re under warranty, stick with licensed ATF+4 products from brands like Valvoline, Castrol, or Mobil.
What are the key differences between ATF+4 and older Mopar ATFs like ATF+3?
ATF+4 uses Group III base oils instead of Group II, delivers better shear stability (10% viscosity loss vs 14%), and maintains its friction characteristics for 100,000 miles instead of degrading by 30,000 miles. Cold-temperature flow is also significantly improved.
Can using a non-approved fluid void my vehicle’s warranty?
Yes, dealers can deny warranty claims if you’ve used non-licensed fluid, even if the product claims to meet ATF+4 standards. Once your warranty expires, quality fluids meeting the specification will work fine without official licensing.
What are the primary characteristics of ATF+4?
ATF+4 uses Group III base oils with highly modified friction additives to prevent torque converter shudder. Viscosity runs 30.65-34.4 mm²/s at 40°C and 7.39-7.5 mm²/s at 100°C.
Where can I purchase licensed ATF+4 equivalent fluid?
Licensed ATF+4 fluids from Valvoline, Castrol, Mobil, and Super Tech are available at auto parts stores and mass retailers. For added convenience, you can purchase through Amazon.
related: List of Motor Oils with Chrysler Ms-6395 Certification
Closing Notes
ATF+4 is less a specification and more a highly engineered system built around Group III synthetic base oils and a proprietary additive package. The combination delivers a viscosity index around 220 and exceptional shear stability with only 10% viscosity loss over 100,000 miles.
Generic multi-vehicle fluids might match the viscosity numbers at 40°C and 100°C initially, but they often lack the viscosity index and shear resistance needed to maintain friction characteristics over extended mileage.
It is safe to purchase cheaper after-market alternatives to the OEM ATF+4. But some car owners think this way: The cost difference between licensed ATF+4 and generic fluids amounts to an insurance premium against expensive transmission failure.
Check Price at AmazonRelated Reads
- Toyota WS Transmission Fluid Alternative Discover alternatives to Toyota WS transmission fluid, which can offer suitable equivalents for Mopar ATF+4 – Learn more.
- Honda ATF DW-1 Equivalents: Best Alternatives and Substitutes Explore the best alternatives and substitutes for Honda ATF DW-1, providing insights into finding Mopar ATF+4 equivalents – Read more.
- Nissan Matic Equivalent [S, D, J, K] Find suitable equivalents for Nissan Matic fluids to identify compatible options for Mopar ATF+4 – Find out more.
- Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Equivalent Learn about the best substitutes for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF to understand high-quality alternatives for Mopar ATF+4 – Explore here.
- Kubota UDT Hydraulic Fluid Equivalent Discover alternatives for Kubota UDT hydraulic fluid, providing high-performance equivalents relevant to Mopar ATF+4 – Discover now.
![Motorcraft Coolant Equivalent: [Orange & Premium Gold]](https://oilsadvisor.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/motorcraft-coolant-1024x576.png)
