Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6: Comparison and Details

Transmission oil is essential to keep your automatic transmission system running well. Choosing the best one is crucial as well. Dexron has been a renowned and trustable name for all the time in the industry. 

With upgrades from time to time, Dexron has gained more credibility. Regarding this, a controversy pops up, “Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6”. Dexron 6 is a precise up-gradation of the older ones. So, it must have differences and some extra benefits.

We can not go through and understand the chemical composition changes with our bare eyes. But, we can experience the differences in the performance. 

With that said, let’s put some light on both of the Dexron transmission oil.

Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6 – Comparison Chart

Dexron 3Dexron 6
Synthetic base transmission oilFully synthetic transmission oil
Less reactive friction stabilityThermally stable with frictional durability
Heat resistant and suitable to low temperature as wellHeat resistant and suitable to low temperature as well
A thicker transmission fluidA thinner transmission fluid
Good shelf life but not so longLonger shelf life

In-depth Discussion: Dexron 3 vs Dexron 6:

Let’s talk about the detailed specifications of Dexron 3 and Dexron 6 here.

Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6 – Which One Has More Friction Stability?

We already realized that Dexron 6 is an improved version of Dexron 3. So, Dexron 6 is also enhanced in friction stability. It will provide your automatic transmission system more fluidity, which is capable of maintaining and increasing friction stability.

The Dexron 3 also works great. But as it is an older version, this oil is more suitable for older cars.

Are Dexron 3 and Dexron 6 heat resistant?

Both the Dexron 3 and Dexron 6 are heat resistant. We can not say anything backed up with scientific information and technology used to make them heat resistant. 

But, in terms of performance, the actual user has claimed that both of them are highly heat resistant, which saves up from friction, leading to heavy accidents.

Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6 – Which one is more suitable in low temperature?

At lower temperatures, the fluid/oil often gets a little concentrated, increasing the oil’s density. That eventually loses the power to work on the transmission system. As a result, the oil inside there becomes of no use. 

The Dexron 3 wins in this case. This oil is manufactured with such technology that it doesn’t let the oil freeze in colder weather. Thus the oil works appropriately inside there and offers you better performance driving.

Who wins the ‘Viscosity’ battle – Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6?

Viscosity is the ultimate concern among the wheeler owners regarding oils and fluids. Viscosity is the measurement of the thickness and thinness of the oil. In case of any lubes or lubricants used in vehicles, there must be a sure consistency between thick and thin. 

The oil should be thick enough to resist heat and work through. It should be thin enough so that the oil can reach every component of the vehicle where it should be working.

Being a thicker oil, Dexron 3 had some difficulties reaching every component correctly. The issue has been eradicated in the Dexron 6. So, now the Dexron 6 is a thinner oil, which runs through every part inside the automatic transmission and works excellently.

What are the upgrade offerings of Dexron 6?

Although, many users and motorheads consider Dexron 6 as a replacement for Dexron 3. But the six has so many upgraded offerings for you. 

Dexron 6 improvised to work actively against rust and corrosion with better oxidation, aeration, and foam control. Thus, you become free of tension about the inside metal parts of the vehicle to get rusty over time. 

Improved fuel efficiency is also a benefit of the new Dexron 6. In simpler terms for the consumers, it means better mileage and smooth running capacity.

Anti-wear, along with an anti-foaming system of Dexron 6, reassures healthy transmission flow. Which eventually keeps your smart automatic transmission healthy and increases its lifespan.

Does Dexron 6 have a longer shelf life than Dexron 3?

Changing the transmission oil quite often becomes expensive. You have to spend some money quite often. And, when it comes to a complete flush, it becomes a considerable investment. Users were always looking forward to getting something better with improved shelf life and saving extra money.

With serving the needs, Dexron 6 has a longer shelf life than Dexron 3. That means you do not require to spend more often to ensure better transmission. Change the oil once with Dexron 6, and you are good to go pretty much for a long time. 

Can Dexron 6 replace Dexron 3?

Replacement between transmission oil is something that experts don’t often suggest. But, you can use Dexron 6 instead of Dexron 3. Because Dexron 6 is assumed to be applicable in every vehicle that uses/is recommended to use Dexron 3. So, why not use something better if you can?

Not only Dexron 3 using vehicles, but you can also use Dexron 6 in any Dexron required vehicle. It is the charm that makes Dexron 6 so demanding in the market.

Can you mix Dexron 3 and Dexron 6?

Mixing between fluids is also a concern. Although different fluids are made with various components, you can mix Dexron 3 and Dexron 6. Or use them interchangeably. 

Because, when you go for an ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) “change,” the fluid inside there and the fluid you are pouring in mixes anyways. So, yeah. You can mix both of the Dexron oils.

Which one to choose – Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6

Here comes the time to decide to choose one. There is nothing to get confused about. As we came to know, Dexron 3 has less shelf life and needs to be changed often. Also, it has less valuable offerings than Dexron 6. Usually, oil changing means more cost.

So. Why use something that is offering you less with more expenses? You get your answer here.

Dexron 6 undoubtedly is a better version of Dexron transmission oil. And, as it doesn’t require frequent change, it is also pocket-friendly. So, choosing Dexron 6 is obviously going to save you money by providing expertized service.

Advice on Transmission Oil replacement

There is something more than transmission oil features you need to know. Here is some advice and recommendations that you can go through to understand your transmission oil change needs better.

When should you change your transmission fluid?

It is a common and sincere question that users often ask. The simplified answer is, check your car’s user manual; you will get the straight answer. In most cases, it is requested to change the transmission oil significantly after 50,000 or 60,000 miles. 

If it is not written in the manual, you can check the oil manually simply by pulling out the dipstick. Now, you need to check which condition your transmission oil is in, which leads to our next point.

How to check the condition of the transmission oil?

Pull out the dipstick and wipe with a paper towel. You will get to see the color of the transmission oil. If it’s a pink-colored oil, it means your transmission oil is still fresh, and it doesn’t need instant change. 

If it is brown/dark red, it means it requires a fluid change. But, if the oil has turned out black, it means your transmission oil is burnt, and it can cause damage to your transmission system.

But, wait. What to do if there is no dipstick in my car?  What if it’s a sealed transmission? Well, the sealed transmission system is not sealed. It has a drain bolt and a fill bolt. Draining the oil by opening the drain bolt, you can fill the new oil by setting up a funnel into the fill bolt.

Can changing the liquid damage the transmission? 

It’s a big no. Changing the fluid is not going to damage the transmission. Fluid changes are required to enhance the transmission capability. Also, to ensure enough lubricity for the clutches, bearings, torque converter and all. 

Should I go for a “Flush” or “Change”?

Changing the transmission oil means simply changing it. You can do it by yourself from the comfort of your garage. Properly drain the available transmission oil inside there. Refill with the new oil with the same amount of quarts. And you are done like dinner. 

Flushing the oil means flushing or cleaning the whole transmission system. It is often suggested not to do it if your existing transmission oil is burnt out. But doing this in a long gap of a period doesn’t hurt. 

You can flush out the system by inserting the hose into the drain bolt and starting the engine. The liquids will flush out. After flushing thoroughly, pour the brand new oil into the fill bolt, and you are good to go.

Be careful while flushing the system. You can take your car to any workshop and have it done by the experts.

Final Thought

Both Dexron 3 vs. Dexron 6 are ideal oil types and used throughout the world because of their outstanding performance. 

Whatever type you choose, it is necessary to buy according to your preference. The good news is that, regardless of the weather and road condition, you can choose any of the oil types to maintain the lifespan of your vehicle engine.

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