I just did a 90K service on my 98 Durango and they used Dexron/Mercon in my transmission.
My owners manual says use ATF+3 and I think Dexron/Mercon is ATF+3 (and a bunch of others too).

So is Dexron/Mercon ok, should I have used something else? I haven't had any trouble with
the transmission so far, except a hard shift from 1st to 2nd when it's cold.

Thanks
Dave

 

Dextron/Mercon is NOT the same as type 7176 (ATF+4). It is OK in a pinch I guess, but I wouldn't refill with it.

 

Is ATF+4 preferred over ATF+3? What's the difference between the two?
The owners manual says to use ATF+3.

Thanks
Dave

 

ATF+4 is the new and improved +3. It's an almost all synthetic fluid that handles the heat generated by the tranny much better. Chrysler has a TSB out recommending that after a flush and refill, +4 should be the replacement fluid instead of +3.

Unfortunately Dextron/Mercon which can be used in pinch will eventually ruin your transmission. I'd get it out of there as soon as possible.

 

Thanks. I'm gonna change it to +4 as soon as I can.

By the way, how many miles should I expect to get out of my tranny? I'm at 92k now and
it hasn't caused me any problems. In fact, other than the going through batteries and
bad gas mileage it runs great.

Thanks again, this is a great forum.

Dave

 

I looked up the TSB (it's at http://dodgeram.info/tsb/2004/21-004-04.htm) but the wording is confusing, does it include the durango or exclude it?
Also, once you switch to AFT+4 you can't go back.