Are there any good Toyota WS transmission fluid alternatives out there?
Yes, many reputed brands with alternate products are just as reliable such as Valvoline, Havoline, RedLine, etc.
However, do Toyota owners need to stick to OEM-approved fluid, or can they switch to equivalent options? I know it’s a hard question for many Toyota owners.
Luckily, this article will compare the OEM Toyota WS fluid with some good aftermarket substitutes. You will also see how each of them performs under real-time testing.
Let’s get started!
About Toyota WS ATF Specs
Toyota WS fluid was released in 2002 with the specifications JWS-3324 or NWS-9638. It is not backward compatible with older Toyota lubricants. Virtually all Toyota vehicles manufactured from 2014 with automatic transmissions use the WS fluid specification. It is a high-performance oil, and it lasts pretty long – up to 100,000 miles (according to a Toyota TSB).
However, since it is an OEM oil, the Toyota WS fluid is pricey. Hence, some Toyota vehicle owners lookout for cheaper universal fluids with the same specifications, JWS-3324.
Toyota WS Transmission Fluid Alternative
Valvoline Multi Vehicle ATF
Halvoline Full Synthetic ATF
Red Line D6 ATF
Before listing the best alternative fluids to substitute Toyota WS, it is crucial to note that using aftermarket engine oils is liable to void the warranty on your new car. It is advisable to use non-OEM oils when your vehicle is no longer under the original OEM warranty coverage. Now, here are the best Toyota WS equivalent out there.
Read more: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant Equivalent
Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF
Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF
According to the product description sheet, the Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF fluid meets the Toyota WS specifications. It also features advanced additives that help mitigate the major causes of transmission failure; thus, guaranteeing longer transmission life. The additives in this fluid help prevent leaks, reduce transmission wear, maximize transmission performance, and maintain smooth shifting.
Moreover, this Valvoline Maxlife is a special base oil blend that provides improved oil flow at low temperatures while also providing more film protection at higher temperatures. It’s a multi-purpose ATF that not only helps prevent clutch wear but also eliminates slippage and shudder.
Besides, with many positive reviews by users on Bobistheoilguy and Tacomaworld forums, this fluid is considered the best equivalent option to your WS fluid. It comes at a cheap price that can not be beaten by other products.
So what is the downside of this product?
Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the shifting when using this fluid. They found that sometimes it causes hesitant and confused shifting.
However, if you are in that case, you should check the transmission system. Other reasons may cause the problem. Taking your Toyota to the mechanic or dealer is also a good option when you can not identify the issue.
- Made with premium additives to prevent leaks
- Formulated with full-synthetic base oils for smooth shifting, protection against wear
- Helps eliminate slippage/shudder
- Delivers impressive performance on various Toyota models at different temp levels
- Sometimes causes hesitant and confused shifting
- Can void your vehicle’s warranty
Valvoline MaxLife ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS
| Valvoline MaxLife ATF | OEM Toyota WS | |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity Index | 163 | 154 |
| Specification | JWS 3324 | JWS 3324, NWS 9638, WS |
| Appearance | Red | Red |
| Pour Point (℉) | -43.6 | -49 |
| Price | Expensive | Cheaper |
Read more: Toyota T-IV Transmission Fluid Substitute
Redline D6 ATF
Redline D6 ATF
Redline D6 ATF is the manufacturer’s lowest viscosity oil, and it meets the Toyota WS specifications. This lubricant is one of the most shear-stable ATF fluids that guarantee consistent operation for specified engines. Aside from Toyota WS, this fluid is compatible with Dexron II-VI, and Mercedes Benz NAG-2 specifications.
Redline D6 ATF does a grand job of protecting the transmission against general wear even during extreme use. The fluid retains its viscosity throughout the temperature range and is recommended as an alternative to Toyota WS ATF.
Moreover, some customers found that this fluid can fix the transmission issues such as hard or slipping shifting. Just after changing the fluid and the filter, the car started shifting like new and has been going strong ever since. So, if you got these problems with your Toyota, this fluid is worth-try.
The only downside is the price. The product is more expensive than the Toyota WS. If you need a cheap alternative, it is not you best choice.
- Reduces oxidation and lower volatility at high temperatures
- Delivers excellent transmission performance without varnishing valves and clutches
- Balanced frictional characteristics extended drain intervals
- More expensive than OEM Toyota WS ATF
- Can void your vehicle’s warranty
RedLine D6 ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS
| Redline D6 ATF | OEM Toyota WS | |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity Index | 163 | 154 |
| Specification | JWS 3324, NWS09638 | JWS 3324, NWS 9638, WS |
| Appearance | Red | Red |
| Pour Point (℉) | -76 | -49 |
| Price | Expensive | Cheaper |
HAVOLINE Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF
HAVOLINE Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF
The HAVOLINE Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF fluid is an ideal alternative to substitute the OEM Toyota WS fluid. This low viscosity fluid is a top-quality synthetic fluid for modern automatic transmissions. It is compatible with various vehicle models from different manufacturers.
This fluid is formulated with General Motors’ latest-gen technology for auto transmissions where DEXRON-VI is specified. It is a universal transmission fluid with lots of benefits to offer its users. You can buy this fluid from different stores, online and offline.
- Regulates friction for smooth and consistent performance
- Delivers impressive performance at all temperature levels
- Offers protection to gears, clutch plates, bearings, and seals
- Can void the warranty on new vehicles
HAVOLINE Multi-Vehicle ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS
| HAVOLINE Multi-Vehicle ATF | OEM Toyota WS | |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity Index | 147 | 154 |
| Specification | JWS 3324, NWS09638 | JWS 3324, NWS 9638, WS |
| Appearance | Red | Red |
| Pour Point (℉) | -65 | -49 |
| Price | Cheap | Expensive |
Read more: Type A Transmission Fluid Equivalent
Final Verdict
All these transmission fluids are safe to use on all Toyota models with WS specifications. More so, these fluids are made using full synthetic base oils and OEM-approved additives; they offer maximal protection just as OEM fluids.
However, due to warranty concerns, it is advisable to stick with the OEM Genuine Toyota WS fluid until your car’s original warranty elapses.
But, if you need a cheaper, yet compatible fluid to use in place of the pricey OEM fluid, the Valvoline Maxlife ATF is a perfect pick. Also, it is recommended by Toyota.
Check Price at AmazonLet me know down in the comments which product is your favorite?
Related Reads
- Honda ATF DW-1 Equivalents: Best Alternatives and Substitutes Explore the best alternatives and substitutes for Honda ATF DW-1, offering insights into compatible options for Toyota WS transmission fluid – Learn more.
- Mopar ATF+4 Equivalent Discover suitable substitutes for Mopar ATF+4 to find high-quality alternatives for Toyota WS transmission fluid – Read more.
- Nissan Matic Equivalent [S, D, J, K] Find equivalents for Nissan Matic fluids to identify potential alternatives for Toyota WS transmission fluid – Find out more.
- Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Equivalent Learn about the best substitutes for Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF, providing compatible alternatives for Toyota WS transmission fluid – Explore here.
- Kubota UDT Hydraulic Fluid Equivalent Discover alternatives for Kubota UDT hydraulic fluid, providing high-performance equivalents that can serve as Toyota WS transmission fluid alternatives – Discover now.
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