Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Equivalent

Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF is used in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram equipped with a ZF 8-speed or 9-speed transmission. The ZF 8-speed (8HP) and 9-speed (9HP) automatic transmissions are sophisticated pieces of German engineering developed by ZF Friedrichshafen AG (commonly known as ZF, which stands for Zahnradfabrik, or “gear factory” in German).

The ZF 8HP family is used by premium manufacturers like BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche, and Aston Martin. 

The specific models found in FCA US LLC vehicles (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram) are the ZF 8HP45 and ZF 9HP45. Chrysler manufactures these transmissions at their Kokomo, Indiana transmission plant under license from ZF. The ZF 8HP50, which Chrysler designates as the 850RE, is a related variant used in some applications.

What makes these transmissions demanding is their complexity and tight tolerances. That’s why it’s extremely important to choose the right Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF equivalent or the OEM product itself.  

In this article, I will look at the other safety equivalent options equal to Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF. They are Valvoline Maxlife ATF, Motul VI ATF, and ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8. 

Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Equivalent

Because accessing Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF is sometimes impossible due to the availability or high price, other fluids come in handy as equivalent options to serve you equally well. They include Valvoline MaxLife ATF, Motul VI ATF, and ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8.

Valvoline Maxlife ATF

Check Price at Amazon

Motul VI ATF

Check Price at Amazon

ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8

Check Price at Amazon

Read More: Mopar ATF+4 Equivalent

ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 ATF

ZF Lifeguard 8 is a semi-synthetic automatic transmission fluid specifically engineered for ZF’s 8HP transmission family (and approved for some 6HP models). ZF designed the friction characteristics specifically for their clutch packs and shift calibrations. It’s formulated so that the friction behavior of your transmission remains consistent throughout its service life. This consistency is essential for maintaining shift quality and preventing vibration.

ZF Lifeguard 8 uses a semi-synthetic base oil formulation, which sits between conventional and fully synthetic fluids. This gives it high thermal-oxidative stability while keeping costs lower than full synthetic alternatives. 

At 26 cSt at 40°C, it runs significantly thinner than older DEXRON III fluids (which typically measure 32 to 36 cSt at 40°C). This lower viscosity reduces parasitic drag in the transmission, which contributes to better fuel economy figures. The Brookfield viscosity of 8,850 cP at -40°C indicates excellent cold-start performance. 

ZF Lifeguard 8 is distinctively green. If you see red fluid in a ZF 8HP transmission, someone either used the wrong product or an aftermarket alternative. 

Compatibility:

ZF Lifeguard 8 is compatible with a range of vehicles.

FCA/Stellantis vehicles: Ram 1500 trucks, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Charger and Challenger, Chrysler 300, and various other Jeep models. Mopar sells it as part number 68218925AA (labeled as “ZF 8 & 9 ATF”).

BMW: Numerous models use ZF 8-speed automatics. BMW supplies the fluid under various part numbers but it’s still ZF Lifeguard 8 underneath.

Jaguar Land Rover: Many models with 8-speed automatics source from ZF.

Other European brands: Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and others also use these transmissions.

ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 ATF

Check Price at Amazon

Motul ATF VI

Motul ATF VI is a fully synthetic transmission fluid that uses Motul’s “Synthese-Technologie” formulation. It’s engineered specifically for modern automatic transmissions with manual mode, sequential mode, electronic controls, and slip lockup clutches. 

Motul explicitly lists compatibility with ZF Lifeguard 8, Lifeguard 9, and the corresponding ZF specifications (TE-ML 11, M-1375.4, M-1375.5, M-1375.6). Motul ATF VI is formulated to meet the low-viscosity requirements of ZF 8- and 9-speed transmissions. It runs thin enough to meet fuel economy targets and cold-start requirements while maintaining sufficient film strength at operating temperatures. 

Compatibility:

One advantage of Motul ATF VI is that it works across the entire ZF 8- and 9-speed family. 

Chrysler/Mopar: 68218925AA (the primary ZF 8 & 9 ATF part number), plus 68043742AB, 68157995AA/AB, 68171866AA, 68171869AA, 68218054CA, 68218057CA, 68218058CA

ZF specifications: Lifeguard 8, Lifeguard 9, TE-ML 11, M-1375.4, M-1375.5, M-1375.6

BMW: Various models using ZF 8-speed (listed under multiple BMW part numbers)

Jaguar Land Rover: Models with ZF transmissions (part numbers 02JDE 26444, LR023288, LR023289)

Maserati: Part number 231603, M-1375.4

Alfa Romeo/Fiat: 9.55550-AV5 specification

Beyond ZF applications, Motul ATF VI offers extensive compatibility with GM DEXRON specifications (II D through VI, including HP and ULV), Ford MERCON specs (LV, ULV, and SP), various Asian manufacturer specifications, and multiple European requirements. This broad compatibility makes it practical if you work on multiple vehicle types.

However, the price of this product is a bit high, so it is not so popular in the Chrysler community. This makes the fluid not receive many reviews from users. 

Motul ATF VI

Check Price at Amazon

Valvoline Maxlife ATF

Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF is a full synthetic automatic transmission fluid designed for broad compatibility across vehicle brands. It’s compatible with ZF Lifeguard 8 specifications, making it an alternative for ZF 8-speed automatic transmissions found in Mopar, BMW, and other applications.

MaxLife’s formulation includes seal conditioners to help prevent leaks and is developed to maximize transmission performance, reduce wear, and maintain smooth shifting longer than conventional fluids. 

It also contains seal conditioners to help prevent leaks and advanced additives targeting common causes of transmission breakdown: varnish formation, wear, and shudder. The synthetic base provides better flow at low temperatures and stronger film protection at high temperatures than conventional ATFs. Valvoline recommends this product particularly for older transmissions, ones with over 75,000 miles.

Please note though that MaxLife ATF is not an OEM-licensed product. However, Valvoline has conducted extensive in-house testing, independent lab work, and field testing to support MaxLife’s use across wide applications.

Compatibility:

MaxLife ATF works in most Ford, GM, Toyota, and Honda automatic transmission applications, along with many European makes. This includes:

Domestic specifications: DEXRON II, III, and VI; MERCON, MERCON V, MERCON SP, and MERCON LV; Chrysler Diamond SP-III

Asian specifications: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 and DW1 (except CVTs), Toyota Type T through T-IV and WS, Nissan Matic-D through Matic-W, Hyundai and Kia SP-II through SP-IV-RR

European specifications: Multiple VW/Audi G-series specs, BMW specifications including LT71141 and M-1375.4, Mercedes-Benz MB236 series, and ZF TE-ML specifications

The complete list covers over 50 different OEM specifications across Allison, Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Saab, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo, and VW applications.

So what is the downside of this fluid? Some users reported that the lubricant sometimes causes the mess up of some transmission systems such as: 2013 Nissan Frontier, V6, Toyota Sienna and Ford edge. However, if you drive a Chrysler, it’s good to go. With the very cheap price, it’s a good option for those who want a low-cost alternative.

Valvoline Maxlife ATF

Check Price at Amazon

Considerations Before Choosing an Aftermarket Equivalent for Mopar ZF 8&9

Deviating from the recommended ATF can cause clutch material to wear prematurely. If you choose the incorrect viscosity, it can lead to improper cooling or lubrication.

OEM fluids like Mopar ZF 8 & 9 ATF or ZF Lifeguard are formulated with proprietary additive packages that aftermarket universal fluids often cannot exactly replicate. For instance, while Valvoline MaxLife ATF lists ZF Lifeguard 8 compatibility, its viscosity at 100°C (5.91 cSt) differs slightly from the specified Lifeguard fluid (5.6 cSt). Whether this difference matters in practice remains debated.

Look for aftermarket brands that specifically claim to meet or exceed the exact ZF specifications. Products like Motul ATF VI explicitly list compatibility with ZF Lifeguard 8 and 9 specifications. Even then, you’ll have to consider the warranty risk.

If your transmission fails while under warranty, a dealer performing diagnostics will likely question any non-approved fluid. This matters because transmissions using Mopar ZF 8 & 9 are expensive to replace. 

The potential savings achieved by choosing a cheaper aftermarket fluid may not be worth the gamble given the high cost of the transmission itself. Once you’re outside the warranty period, this calculation changes significantly.

Moreover, the long-term performance of aftermarket ATFs is often undocumented. Using an incorrect specification fluid may work initially, but you might not get a full service life out of the transmission. The long-term health over extended mileage (100,000, 200,000, or 300,000 miles) when using universal fluids remains unknown unless specific oil analyses are performed.

The safest alternative is to choose the OEM product or, at the very least, find a fluid that explicitly lists ZF Lifeguard 8 or 9 compatibility with supporting technical specifications.

Read More: Mopar Coolant Equivalent [OAT & HOAT]

About Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Specifications

Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF is an OEM manufactured in the USA. Chrysler certifies it for use in Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, and Jeep vehicles with ZF 8HP or 9HP automatic transmission system. It is fully synthetic and is characterized by outstanding features such as high oxidation control, corrosion control, and low-temperature flow; shear stability in high temperature, and maximum wear protection. 

Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF

Check Price at Amazon

The fluid aims at giving you a smooth shift transmission, continuous lubrication of the various transmission system parts, protection from harmful deposits, reduced oxidation, and prevention of corrosion, improved performance, and general well-being of the transmission system.

Besides being used in the factory as a Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF OEM, it is also recommended for a refill for all the above-named vehicles.

However, this fluid is not always available and has a high price. This might be a challenge if you need to use it frequently and in large amounts. For these reasons, many car owners started looking for alternatives as mentioned earlier.

Please note that HP does NOT mean horsepower in this context. HP stands for Hydraulic converter and Planetary gearset, a feature in these particular ZF transmission.

Difference Between ZF8 and ZF9

The ZF 8-speed is a rear-wheel-drive transmission designed for performance and luxury vehicles. It is engineered for smoothness and responsiveness. ZF-9 is a front-wheel-drive unit built primarily for fuel economy in crossovers and smaller vehicles. 

The 9-speed’s controversial reputation stems from its dog clutch system at certain shift points (4-to-5 and 7-to-8), which requires perfect RPM matching and creates noticeable hesitations, particularly during multi-gear downshifts. The closely spaced gear ratios and aggressive upshift programming (prioritizing EPA fuel economy numbers) make the 9-speed feel like it’s constantly hunting for gears, while the 8-speed feels confident and decisive. 

Despite the reputation differences, both represent impressive engineering achievements. They just serve different masters: the 8-speed prioritizes driver experience, while the 9-speed prioritizes fuel economy requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF

Can I use regular DEXRON or MERCON fluid in my ZF 8 or 9-speed transmission?

No, you cannot use conventional DEXRON or MERCON fluids in ZF 8 or 9-speed transmissions. ZF transmissions require specific low-viscosity fluids with proprietary additive packages engineered for ZF’s clutch materials and tight tolerances. 

Is Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF the same as ZF LifeguardFluid 9?

Yes, Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF is a ZF-approved equivalent to ZF LifeguardFluid 9. Shell manufactures the Mopar-branded fluid to meet ZF specifications. 

Will using aftermarket ATF void my warranty?

If your vehicle is under warranty, using non-approved fluid creates significant risk. While the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prevents manufacturers from requiring specific brands as a warranty condition, dealers will look for any reason to deny a transmission claim, and unapproved fluid is the easiest excuse. 

How often should I change the transmission fluid despite the “lifetime fill” designation?

While ZF recommends service at 150,000 km (approximately 93,000 miles) under ideal conditions, most transmission specialists suggest 50,000 to 75,000-mile intervals for real-world use. 

If you tow with a Ram 1500, drive a Grand Cherokee in stop-and-go traffic, or subject your transmission to extreme temperatures, the fluid deteriorates much faster than engineers assumed when setting those intervals. The fluid may still appear clean, but the friction modifiers deplete and the additive package breaks down over time.

What’s the difference between ZF LifeguardFluid 8 and LifeguardFluid 9?

ZF LifeguardFluid 8 is a synthetic blend (sem-synthetic) while LifeguardFluid 9 is fully synthetic. LifeguardFluid 9 performs better across the board but with the natural tradeoff of being more expensive. 

Additionally, ZF LifeguardFluid 8 is designed primarily for the 8HP transmission family. LifeguardFluid 9 is approved for both 8HP and 9HP applications. 

The Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF is equivalent to LifeguardFluid 9, which is why it covers both transmission types. 

Is Motul ATF VI a legitimate alternative to Mopar fluid?

Motul ATF VI explicitly lists compatibility with ZF Lifeguard 8, Lifeguard 9, and corresponding Mopar part numbers, but it’s not OEM-licensed. The same can be said about other aftermarket alternatives. 

Why does the viscosity difference between OEM and aftermarket fluids matter so much?

Modern ZF transmissions are engineered to precise tolerances where even small viscosity differences affect performance. The clutch material may wear faster, or the cooling capacity might be compromised if you use an ATF with the wrong viscosity.

Final Verdict

Regardless of which fluid you choose, consider shorter change intervals than the manufacturer recommends. More frequent fluid changes with any quality ATF will always benefit transmission longevity. It’s cheaper to change fluid every 30,000 miles than to rebuild a transmission at 150,000 miles. 

Both ZF8 and ZF9 are beautifully engineered transmissions that deserve proper care. 

With proper change intervals, you can’t go wrong with  Valvoline Maxlife ATF, Motul VI ATF, and ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8.

However, as much as the equivalents are more accessible and affordable, the first choice should always be what the manufacturer recommends, especially when the vehicle is still under warranty.

Related Reads

• Toyota WS Transmission Fluid Alternative Discover alternatives to Toyota WS transmission fluid, which can provide insights into suitable equivalents for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF – Learn more.
• Honda ATF DW-1 Equivalents: Best Alternatives and Substitutes Explore the best alternatives and substitutes for Honda ATF DW-1, offering potential options for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF equivalents – Read more.
• Nissan Matic Equivalent [S, D, J, K] Find suitable equivalents for Nissan Matic fluids, helping you identify compatible options for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF – Find out more.
• Mopar ATF+4 Equivalent Learn about the best substitutes for Mopar ATF+4 to understand high-quality alternatives for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF – Explore here.
• Kubota UDT Hydraulic Fluid Equivalent Discover alternatives for Kubota UDT hydraulic fluid, providing high-performance equivalents relevant to Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF – Discover now.