Regarding ATF color, Chrysler put out a TSB about their ATF+4:
"FLUID COLOR Mopar ATF+4® is a World Class Fluid having exceptional durability. However, the red dye used in ATF+4 is not permanent; as the fluid ages it may become darker or appear brown in color. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. With ATF+4 fluid, color and odor are no longer indicators of fluid condition and do not support a fluid change."
- I wonder if other modern fluids are the same?
- How much does it cost to have a shop do a complete fluid exchange vs. doing multiple drain and fills? You can guess what I'm thinking here.
- Finally, just an observation. I am shocked at the LARGE percentage of shops (including dealers) in my area that use the BG system, even when a vehicle is under a long powertrain warranty. My daughter had her Kia fluid done recently at 50K (100K warranty) and the KIA dealer used BG).
"FLUID COLOR Mopar ATF+4® is a World Class Fluid having exceptional durability. However, the red dye used in ATF+4 is not permanent; as the fluid ages it may become darker or appear brown in color. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. With ATF+4 fluid, color and odor are no longer indicators of fluid condition and do not support a fluid change."
- I wonder if other modern fluids are the same?
- How much does it cost to have a shop do a complete fluid exchange vs. doing multiple drain and fills? You can guess what I'm thinking here.
- Finally, just an observation. I am shocked at the LARGE percentage of shops (including dealers) in my area that use the BG system, even when a vehicle is under a long powertrain warranty. My daughter had her Kia fluid done recently at 50K (100K warranty) and the KIA dealer used BG).