Mitsubishi ATF J3

[Kira]

Vehicle: 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport w/ 6 speed & paddle shifters (not CVT) @65K
I want to service the unit.

ATF requirement: Mitsubishi ATF J3 @ $15 per quart

Questions:
1) Is Mitsubishi J3 mineral or synthetic?
2) Are there substitutes?

I tried searching on this board a buncha ways before making this post.
I am looking to save some money -sensibly- if at all possible.
Thanks

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Maxlife will work great in your Mitsubishi

 

[Kira]

Which Maxlife labeled product?
The only Maxlife I know is labeled Dex/Merc LV in a red jug. The LV is key as it differentiates a low viscosity formula.
I've used it where a JWS 3309 fluid was called for.
I've also used it in older vehicles where "good ol' Dex/Merc" is called for. Both times with success.

I've seen a Maxlife in a blue jug as well.

 

[Sayjac]

Well I'm interested in this one. The Amsoil application guide which I've found very authoritative for applications and capacities, list their synthetic CVT fluid for both engines (2.0/2.4L) of the topic 2015 Outlander Sport. So, something doesn't add up here.

Here's a thread on 15 Sport asking about CVT equivalent https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/4276087/CVT_fluid_for_2015_Mitshubishi

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Originally Posted by Kira
Which Maxlife labeled product?
The only Maxlife I know is labeled Dex/Merc LV in a red jug. The LV is key as it differentiates a low viscosity formula.
I've used it where a JWS 3309 fluid was called for.
I've also used it in older vehicles where "good ol' Dex/Merc" is called for. Both times with success.

I've seen a Maxlife in a blue jug as well.



Yes, the red bottle

Commonly available at Walmart for well under $20 a gallon

 

[Sayjac]

Here's a link for Mitsu transmission fluid applications for all vehicles. Scroll down Outlander Sport, CVT fluid same part number listed for both engines. Corresponds to Amsoil info.

I like MaxLife MuiltiVehicle ATF fine, but as topic vehicle described, not.

https://www.mitsubishicars.com/owners/parts-accessories/value-line-products/transmission-fluid

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Originally Posted by Sayjac
Here's a link for Mitsu transmission fluid applications for all vehicles. Scroll down Outlander Sport, CVT fluid same part number listed for both engines. Corresponds to Amsoil info.

I like MaxLife MuiltiVehicle ATF fine, but as topic vehicle described, not.

https://www.mitsubishicars.com/owners/parts-accessories/value-line-products/transmission-fluid


J3 is not the CVT

 

[Sayjac]

^^^^ Point missed. OP says topic vehicle, "2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport". As posted, two sources noted (one linked) say that vehicle specs CVT fliud with either engine. So it appears, topic vehicle isn't a 2015 Outlander Sport or J3 incorrectly listed as spec. Thus, something doesn't add up.

 

[Silk]

Called the ASX here, the only auto is in the diesel, and Castrol recommend Dexron VI, Mercon LV.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Originally Posted by Sayjac
^^^^ Point missed. OP says topic vehicle, "2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport". As posted, two sources noted (one linked) say that vehicle specs CVT fliud with either engine. So it appears, topic vehicle isn't a 2015 Outlander Sport or J3 incorrectly listed as spec. Thus, something doesn't add up.


oops

Well anyway, Castrol makes a good CVT fluid at a great price. Amazon has it for $35 for the case of 6, and a few times a year, the auto parts stores have it on sale for $5/qt

 

[Mad_Hatter]

I think it goes without saying that if you're still under warranty it's always best to use OE fluids.

There are many brands that say they replace J3 but I think MaxLife MV and Castrol Transmaxx FS MV are probably going to be your most cost effective options. Both say they replace J3 and meet or exceed JASO 1A for Japanese imports.

 

[Sayjac]

Another site showing specs for all 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport models. With the exception of the manual, all show 6 speed CVT trans.

https://www.cars.com/research/mitsubishi-outlander_sport-2015/trims/

J3 ATF or aftermarket equivalents mentioned should work well.