Best Manual Transmission Fluids of 2025

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Manual transmission fluids are essential for the proper functioning of manual transmissions. They are designed to lubricate the gears and bearings, as well as to cool and clean the transmission. High-quality manual transmission fluids are formulated to withstand high temperatures and pressures, reduce friction and wear, and provide smooth shifting. Some of the most popular brands of manual transmission fluids include Mobil 1, Royal Purple, and Red Line. These fluids are available in different viscosities and are suitable for various types of manual transmissions, including synchromesh, non-synchromesh, and limited-slip differentials.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid Cover #TOP 1
Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Valvoline Syncromesh Manual Transmission Fluid Cover #TOP 2
Valvoline Syncromesh Manual Transmission Fluid
ftb score rating icon 9.8
IMC Motorcom Acura Honda Manual Trans Fluid Cover #TOP 3
IMC Motorcom Acura Honda Manual Trans Fluid
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Manual Transmission Fluids

#TOP 1

Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid

08798-9031
1 Quart (32 Ounces)
Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid Cover
Genuine Honda Fluid 08798-9031 Manual Transmission Fluid - 1 Quart

The Genuine Honda Fluid 08798-9031 Manual Transmission Fluid is a high-quality product that comes in a 1 Quart package with dimensions of 6.858 L x 22.352 H x 10.922 W (centimeters). The fluid has a new and improved formula that meets quality standards and is designed to improve shift quality and lower fluid friction. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable transmission fluid.

What We Like
Meets quality standards
Improves shift quality
Lowers fluid friction
#TOP 2

Valvoline Syncromesh Manual Transmission Fluid

811095
Synchromesh Manual
1 QT
Valvoline Syncromesh Manual Transmission Fluid Cover
Valvoline Syncromesh Manual Transmission Fluid 1 QT

This transmission fluid offers enhanced performance in low and high temperatures, and helps reduce oxidation to control viscosity breakdown. It also provides excellent wear protection under high loads and extreme pressure, as well as outstanding anti-foam performance to minimize cavitation.

What We Like
Improved performance in various temperatures
Protects against wear and pressure damage
Prevents cavitation
#TOP 3

IMC Motorcom Acura Honda Manual Trans Fluid

97321003001
IMC Motorcom Acura Honda Manual Trans Fluid Cover
Genuine Acura Honda Manual Trans Fluid 1 Quart Container 08798 9031

IMC Motorcom Trans Fluid is a versatile product suitable for various vehicle models. Before purchasing, ensure it fits your vehicle. It is crafted to meet or surpass the original part standards. The manual transmission fluid ensures smooth gear shifts and optimal performance, enhancing your driving experience with reliability and efficiency.

What We Like
Versatile compatibility
Meets original specifications
Enhances gear shifting
#TOP 4

Triax Synergy Gear MT-90

75W-90GL4
1 Quart
Triax Synergy Gear MT-90 Cover
TRIAX Synergy Gear MT 75W-90 GL-4 (MT-90); Full Synthetic Manual Trans Fluid; Smooth Shifting; No Sticking, Slipping, Vibration, or Shudder; Yellow Metal Safe (1 Quart)

The Triax Synergy Gear MT-90 is a high-quality full synthetic manual transmission fluid that offers exceptional performance and reliability. Compatible with a wide range of manual transmissions from various car brands, this fluid is designed to provide smooth shifting and prevent issues like sticking, slipping, and vibration. Its frictionally optimized formulation ensures smooth synchronizer engagement and stable friction, resulting in a seamless driving experience. The Triax MT-90 is also yellow metal safe, making it suitable for use with brass, copper, and aluminum alloys. Additionally, it offers excellent gear protection in high horsepower and high-speed conditions, making it ideal for racing and off-road use. With its long drain intervals and low pour point, the Triax MT-90 is a reliable choice for any manual transmission.

What We Like
Smooth shifting
Yellow metal safe
Excellent gear protection
#TOP 5

Red Line SAE 75W80 Gear Oil - 1 Quart

(50204)
Quart
Red Line SAE 75W80 Gear Oil - 1 Quart Cover
Red Line 50204 SAE 75W80 API GL-4 Manual Transmission and Transaxle Lubricant (MTL) Car Gear Oil - 1 Quart

The Red Line (50204) SAE 75W80 API GL-4 Manual Transmission and Transaxle Lubricant is a high-performance gear oil that offers balanced friction control for most manual transmission synchronizers. This gear oil has the ability to satisfy the gear oil viscosity requirements of 75W, 80W and motor oil viscosities of SAE 30, 10W30, 5W30, which leads to longer synchro life and quicker shifts. It is safe for brass synchros and does not damage them. It is popular for use in BMW, Honda/Acura, Ford Focus, Mitsubishi, Dodge & Jeep NV1500, NV3500, NV3550 & NV5600 truck transmissions. Red Line Products have been established since 1979 and are known for their high quality and performance.

What We Like
Offers longer synchro life and quicker shifts
Safe for brass synchros and does not cause damage
Can be used for various gear oil viscosity requirements and motor oil viscosities
#TOP 6

Genuine Ford Fluid XT-M5-QS Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid

Ford
XT-M5-QS
black
1 Quart
Genuine Ford Fluid XT-M5-QS Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid Cover
Ford Genuine Ford Fluid XT-M5-QS Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid - 1 Quart , black

This transmission fluid is manufactured with synthetic base oils and performance additives, providing improved gear shifting at all ambient temperatures. Due to its excellent thermal, oxidative, and shear stability, it meets Ford's fill-for-life requirements. Its wear protection extends the life of synchronizers and bearings, while reducing friction and providing optimal lubrication that reduces operating temperatures, increases component life, and improves efficiency. Use according to the owner's guide recommendations.

What We Like
Provides improved gear shifting at all ambient temperatures
Meets Ford's fill-for-life requirements
Extends the life of synchronizers and bearings
Reduces friction, operating temperature, and increases component life
#TOP 7

Ultra1Plus SAE 50 Synthetic Fluid

UL506
Ultra1Plus SAE 50 Synthetic Fluid Cover
Ultra1Plus SAE 50 Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluids (CD-50) (5 Gallon Pail)

Ultra1Plus Synthetic Transmission Fluid is designed for heavy-duty use, providing exceptional protection against rust, oxidation, and corrosion in extreme conditions. This fluid enhances the longevity of your equipment by minimizing wear on gears and bearings, thanks to its anti-wear additives. You can rely on its all-climate performance, as it maintains superior viscosity in both hot and cold weather, ensuring optimal operation year-round. Additionally, it improves fuel efficiency by enabling smoother gear shifts and reducing fluid resistance, making it easier for you to handle challenging driving conditions.

What We Like
Severe service protection
Extended equipment life
All-climate performance
Fuel economy improvement
#TOP 8

Valvoline Synchromesh Transmission Fluid

811095
Valvoline Synchromesh Transmission Fluid Cover
Valvoline Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid (811095) - 1 Quart - pack of 6 (1 Quart (pack of 6))

The Valvoline Synchromesh Fluid comes in a convenient pack of six quarts, perfect for multiple oil changes or sharing with friends. This fluid is specially designed for manual transmissions, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. The easy-to-pour bottles make it simple to change your transmission fluid without any mess. Formulated for modern vehicles, it helps prolong the life of your transmission while reducing wear, giving you peace of mind on the road.

What We Like
Multiple quarts included
Smooth transmission performance
Easy-to-use packaging
Reduces transmission wear
#TOP 9

ACDelco 10-4104 Manual Transmission Fluid

805270
, 1 Pack
ACDelco 10-4104 Manual Transmission Fluid Cover
ACDelco 805270 GM Original Equipment 10-4104 XGP SAE 75W-85 Manual Transmission Fluid - 1 qt

The ACDelco Manual Transmission Fluid is designed specifically as a replacement for your GM vehicle's original factory component. This ensures that you receive the same quality and reliability that you expect from your car. The fluid is manufactured to meet GM's Original Equipment specifications, guaranteeing a perfect fit and function. By using this fluid, you can expect enhanced durability, which helps prolong the life of your transmission and improve overall vehicle performance. Choosing this product means you're investing in the longevity and efficiency of your transmission system.

What We Like
OEM quality assurance
Perfect fit for GM vehicles
Enhanced durability
Improves transmission performance
#TOP 10

GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid 88900399

88900399
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid 88900399 Cover
Genuine GM Fluid 88900399 Synchromesh Friction Modified Manual Transmission Fluid - 32 oz.

The GM Synchromesh Fluid is a semi-synthetic transmission fluid designed to enhance the performance of your vehicle's NV 1500 transmission. Its friction-modified formula helps to minimize wear on transmission components, ensuring smoother operation. By using this fluid, you can expect improved shifting and longevity of your transmission, ultimately leading to a more reliable driving experience. Always refer to your service manual to confirm compatibility with your vehicle, making maintenance easier and more efficient for you.

What We Like
Semi-synthetic composition
Reduces component wear
Improves shifting performance
Compatible with NV 1500
Buying Guide Image

Some Factors You Should Know About Manual Transmission Fluids

Introduction

Manual transmission fluids, also known as gear oils, are essential for the proper functioning of a vehicle with a manual transmission system. These fluids help to lubricate the gears, bearings, and other moving parts in the transmission, allowing them to operate smoothly and efficiently. Choosing the right gear oil for your vehicle is crucial, as using the wrong type of fluid can cause damage and lead to costly repairs. In this article, we will discuss some key factors to consider when selecting a manual transmission fluid.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a gear oil, there are several important factors to consider. These include:

  • The type of transmission in your vehicle
  • The manufacturer's recommended viscosity and specification
  • The operating conditions of your vehicle
  • The type of driving you do
  • The age and condition of your transmission

Type of Transmission

The first thing to consider when choosing a gear oil is the type of transmission in your vehicle. Different types of transmissions require different types of gear oils. For example, some vehicles have synchronous manual transmissions, which require a gear oil with a higher viscosity and special additives to prevent synchro wear. Other vehicles may have conventional manual transmissions, which require a gear oil with a lower viscosity and different additives to provide the appropriate level of lubrication and protection.

Manufacturer's Recommendations

The next thing to consider is the manufacturer's recommended viscosity and specification for your vehicle's transmission. This information can usually be found in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. It is important to use a gear oil that meets the manufacturer's recommended specification, as using the wrong type of fluid can cause damage to your transmission.

Operating Conditions

The operating conditions of your vehicle can also affect the type of gear oil you should use. For example, if you frequently drive your vehicle in extreme temperatures or conditions, such as hot weather or off-road environments, you may need a gear oil with special additives to provide extra protection against heat, wear, and corrosion. On the other hand, if you mostly drive your vehicle in mild conditions, a standard gear oil may be sufficient.

Type of Driving

The type of driving you do can also impact the type of gear oil you should use. If you frequently tow heavy loads or drive your vehicle aggressively, you may need a gear oil with higher viscosity and special additives to provide extra protection against wear and stress. On the other hand, if you mostly drive your vehicle at moderate speeds and in normal conditions, a standard gear oil may be sufficient.

Age and Condition of Transmission

The age and condition of your transmission can also play a role in choosing the right gear oil. If your transmission is relatively new and in good condition, a standard gear oil may be sufficient. However, if your transmission is older or has been subjected to heavy use, you may need a gear oil with special additives to help restore its performance and protect against wear and damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right manual transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of your vehicle's transmission. By considering the type of transmission, manufacturer's recommendations, operating conditions, type of driving, and age and condition of the transmission, you can select a gear oil that will provide the appropriate level of lubrication and protection for your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What fluid goes in a manual transmission?

Manual transmission fluid is typically brown to amber in color. Commonly recommended formulations include SAE 80W, 75W-90, 80W-90, and SAE 90. In some cases, a multi-grade engine oil or automatic transmission fluid may be used.

2. Is manual transmission fluid the same as gear oil?

No, manual transmission fluid and gear oil are not the same. Gear oil is specifically designed for manual transmissions, while transmission fluid is used in automatic transmissions of vehicles.

3. What fluid goes in a manual clutch?

In a manual clutch system, brake fluid is used instead of a specific clutch fluid. When the clutch pedal is depressed, brake fluid flows from the master to the slave, allowing for gear changes.

4. How do I know if my manual transmission needs fluid?

To check the fluid level in a manual gearbox, you can use the filler plug hole. Insert your finger and check for any fluid on the end. If there is no fluid or it is low, you may need to add more fluid. However, if the fluid level is already high, no additional fluid is required.

5. Is manual transmission fluid thicker than automatic transmission fluid?

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is generally thinner than Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF). ATF offers better shifter feel and performs well at colder temperatures. MTF, on the other hand, tends to be thicker and maintains its viscosity at higher temperatures.

6. How do I know if my manual transmission fluid is bad?

Good transmission fluid is clear or pink-tinted. If your manual transmission fluid appears deep red or brown, it is old and dirty. Visible particles in the fluid are also a sign that it needs to be replaced to prevent damage to the transmission.

Editor's Notes

During our manual transmission fluid research, we found 24 manual transmission fluid products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 18,453 customer reviews through our big data system to write the manual transmission fluids list. We found that most customers choose manual transmission fluids with an average price of $25.54.

The manual transmission fluids are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of manual transmission fluids, including Honda, Valvoline, IMC Motorcom, Triax, Red Line. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 227 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.