Diamond SP-III

[Garlic]

Hello everyone,

I drive a Kia and which automatic transmission requires either Diamond SP-III or SK SP-III ATF.

I did some homework and the following ATF are suitable,

1) Redline D4
2) Amsoil synthetic universal ATF
3) Schaeffer 204SAT ATF

However, my regular workshop has told to search for OEM SP-III fluid if possible. He commented that aftermarket ATF will react with any remaining SP-III and might void warranty should anything happens.

According to him, the system contains 6.5L of ATF and draining will only remove about 60% of old oil.

What is your take on this? Should I just stick with OEM SP-III ATF?

Lastly, is SP-III considered a synthetic ATF?

Thanks

 

[Dick in Falls Church]

I have yet to hear of any problems caused by mixing synthetic and non-synthetic ATF. And synthetic ATF has been around for about 20 years.

 

[Hammer]

I believe Valvoline Maxlife will work for you too.

Hammer

 

[Hammer]

http://www.valvoline.com/products/Maxlife ATF.pdf

 

[Jon]

I used Valvoline Maxlife in my Kia Sedona. So far just the one drain-and-fill (about 3 quarts, somewhat less if I recall). Do NOT forget to remove the battery cable and let it "forget" things (about 15 minutes, I think). I didn't and it didn't shift quite right for a bit. Now, it shifts better than before. Going to do another 3qts in another 1000 miles. One drain-and-refill per oil change for 3 oil changes in a row, then 3-5 oil changes, then repeat.

If I had my druthers I'd try the Amsoil but this seems good so far.

 

[keith]

Quote:

---

However, my regular workshop has told to search for OEM SP-III fluid if possible. He commented that aftermarket ATF will react with any remaining SP-III and might void warranty should anything happens.

---

If Kia has similar warranty terms as Hyundai, use of any ATF other than SP-III WILL invalidate the factory warranty. AT repairs are expensive and the dealerships are looking for excuses to not pay for warranty repairs.

 

[FordSVTGuy]

I have a Hyundai Entourage that specs this and I will not use the "multi formula" variety. Did not have much luck with these in the past...