Toyota WS Transmission Fluid Alternative

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

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

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.

Valvoline MaxLife ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS

Read more: Toyota T-IV Transmission Fluid Substitute

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.

RedLine D6 ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS

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.

HAVOLINE Multi-Vehicle ATF Vs. Genuine Toyota WS

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.

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Let me know down in the comments which product is your favorite?