You may or may not have known that it was in fact GM that, over four decades ago, created the DEXRON brand of automotive fluids. And what started out as a group of technical specifications exclusively for automatic transmissions is now growing into a family of fluids that is, according “designed to protect and prolong the life of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles”, according to GM.
What inspired the expansion of the DEXRON line is the simple fact that the increased complexity, sophistication, and strict tolerances engineered into the driveline of today’s vehicles call for specific fluids to be used in various aspects of the vehicle; the days when one fluid was good enough for all driveline components are gone. And what better lubricants to use for arguably the most important part of the vehicle than those approved (and even engineered) by GM? Enter DEXRON’s expanded product line, which now includes:
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Manual transmission fluid
- Gear oil
- Hydraulic fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Traction drive fluid
“Unlike unlicensed products, including some that erroneously use the ‘Dexron’ name, GM-licensed DEXRON driveline oils and lubricants assure our customers of certified quality,” said GM fuels and lubricants engineer Roy Fewkes. “Customers should look for the new logo before they purchase transmission, differential and other driveline fluids. By doing so, customers can be confident they are purchasing a product that meets GM’s stringent specifications.”
GM’s press release also contains the following line about the importance of using GM-licensed products:
“Using non GM-licensed driveline fluids puts an owner at risk of shortening the life of their transmissions and voiding their vehicle warranties.”
Good to know.
Comments
Since 1981 I have been using Mobil1 synthetic oils in all of my American vehicles, and their engines last over 16 years with no leakage or wear. My present 1995 Buick Regal still has all of its torque. I change my oil every six months for only $26, so I am saving money more than any other type of oil per change.
My d16y7 civic loves chevron supreme 10w30. Maybe a quart of oil every 5,000 with 236,000 miles and very little wear according to a used oil analysis.