Dexron III ATF for '97 Avalon P/S?

[Trumpet]

So, my '97 Avalon is starting to "moan" when I turn the wheel, so I thought I should probably top off the fluid. So I look in the manual and is says Dexron II. I go to Advance Auto Parts to pick some up, but none of the power steering fluids they stock actually say if they're Dexron I, II, III, LVXIII, etc.

So I ask the guy behind the counter. He said that if it calls for Dexron II, Dexron III etc. is good too. Also, they said ATF is the same thing, just dyed a different color. Since the power steering fluids weren't labeled, they said using the ATF that said it was Dexron III was a safe bet.

What say you?

 

[michaelluscher]

Maxlife ATF is great for applications like this.

 

[ET16]

Originally Posted By: michaelluscher
Maxlife ATF is great for applications like this.


+1

 

[Oro_O]

Maxlife. Or any other synthetic ATF.

If it is groaning already, I would add some SeaFoam to it for a day or two before changing it out. Well give it some pre-cleaning action.

Also, if long-neglected, I'd flush it all out instead of just siphoning or pumping out the reservoir. Not that hard, here is a DIY:

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/es300-and-es330/230152-power-steering-flush.html

 

[mongo161]

I have a 1997 Toyota 4Runner SR-5 and I use Mobil 1 ATF. I've had it flushed twice and now I just remove the old fluid with a "turkey baster" fitted with a small hose to siphon out the old fluid every 2 years and replace with fresh Mobil 1 ATF, which is Dexron III compatible.

 

[901Memphis]

Yes the parts guy is partially correct. The DexronIII or dex/merc is the suitable replacement for DexronII, but a synthetic might give you better feel.

Since a power steering system isn't as picky as the actual automatic transmission you can use most anything in there. Maxlife, Mobil 1 ATF, Mercon V, or even DexronVI.