What Is Compatible With Honda Dual Pump Fluid?
The correct and safe substitute for Honda Dual Pump Fluid is the genuine Honda/Acura Dual Pump II fluid—often labeled “Dual Pump Fluid II,” “DPSF,” or “DPSF-II,” and in some markets updated to “DPSF-III.” No conventional gear oil, ATF, CVT, or DCT fluid is compatible. In practice, the only reliably compatible option is the OEM Honda/Acura product (the Acura-branded bottle is the same fluid), with a small number of regional Idemitsu “DPSF” bottles essentially matching the OEM fill. Using anything else risks rear differential chatter, binding on turns, and premature wear.
Contents
Why Compatibility Matters on Honda AWD/4WD Systems
Honda’s “Dual Pump” rear differentials (used in many CR‑V and Element models and some Acura applications) rely on a hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch pack. The fluid’s specific friction and viscosity characteristics are critical to smooth torque transfer. Substituting ATF or gear oil can change how the clutch pack engages, producing groaning or judder in tight turns and potentially damaging the unit.
Fluids You Can Safely Use
The list below outlines fluids that are recognized as compatible because they meet Honda’s formulation and friction requirements or are the OEM product under a different label.
- Genuine Honda Dual Pump Fluid II (often printed as “Dual Pump Fluid II” or “DPSF/DPSF‑II”).
- Genuine Acura Dual Pump Fluid/DPSF (same formulation as Honda-branded Dual Pump II).
- In some regions, Honda/Acura DPSF‑III where specified by the label or service literature; it supersedes earlier DPSF in certain markets.
- Region-specific Idemitsu DPSF bottles that explicitly state equivalency to Honda DPSF/Dual Pump Fluid II (Idemitsu is an OEM supplier; availability varies by market).
If your owner’s manual or a dealer parts catalog specifies “Dual Pump Fluid II,” use that exact fluid or its clearly marked updated replacement. When in doubt, buy the Honda/Acura bottle to avoid compatibility risks and to preserve warranty compliance.
Fluids You Should Not Use
The following products are commonly mistaken as substitutes but are not compatible with Honda Dual Pump rear differentials.
- Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF), including Honda ATF-Z1 or ATF DW‑1, and multi-vehicle ATFs.
- Gear oils (e.g., 75W‑90, 75W‑85, 80W‑90), even “limited-slip” or “friction-modified” types.
- CVT fluids (HCF‑2, NS‑2, etc.) and DCT/dual‑clutch fluids.
- Friction modifiers or limited-slip additives intended for differentials that do not use Honda’s dual‑pump clutch system.
- Honda VTM‑4 fluid (used on certain Pilot/Ridgeline/MDX applications); it is for a different system and is not interchangeable with Dual Pump fluid.
Using any of the above may lead to low-speed binding, chatter during tight turns, or accelerated wear of the differential clutch pack.
Naming, Labels, and Regional Differences
Honda’s rear differential fluid has appeared under several closely related names. In North America, bottles typically read “Honda (or Acura) Dual Pump Fluid II” or “DPSF.” Some regions list “DPSF‑II” and the latest “DPSF‑III.” Acura-branded DPSF and Honda-branded Dual Pump II are the same fluid. If your service information references DPSF‑III, it is the current supersession for that market.
How to Confirm What Your Vehicle Requires
If you’re unsure which system and fluid your vehicle uses, the steps below can help you verify before you buy.
- Check the owner’s manual fluid chart for “Rear Differential” or “AWD Unit” and note the exact fluid name (e.g., “Dual Pump Fluid II,” “DPSF,” or “VTM‑4”).
- Inspect the rear differential fill plug area; some housings have a label or casting notes referring to the required fluid.
- Call a Honda/Acura dealer with your VIN; they can confirm the correct fluid and any supersessions (e.g., DPSF‑III).
These steps help prevent mix-ups between Dual Pump systems and other Honda/Acura AWD units that use different specialized fluids.
Service Notes and Practical Tips
Proper maintenance helps prevent chatter and extends the life of the rear differential. Consider the guidance below as general best practices alongside your manual’s instructions.
- Intervals: Many Honda schedules call for periodic rear differential fluid changes, often 30,000–60,000 miles (48,000–96,000 km), or sooner if symptoms occur. Always follow your vehicle’s maintenance minder or manual.
- Capacity: Typical refill is around 1.1–1.3 US quarts (about 1.0–1.2 liters), but verify for your model/year.
- Procedure: Warm the vehicle, safely raise it level, remove the fill plug first to ensure it opens, then drain and refill until fluid reaches the lower edge of the fill port. Use new crush washers and torque to spec per the service manual.
- Symptoms after wrong fluid: Moan/chatter on low-speed tight turns, binding/drag, or shudder. A double drain-and-fill with the correct Dual Pump fluid often resolves it; persistent symptoms may indicate wear.
Adhering to the correct fluid and maintenance procedure preserves smooth AWD operation and reduces the chance of costly repairs.
What About Aftermarket “Equivalents”?
A few aftermarket labels claim compatibility, but Honda does not broadly approve non-OEM substitutes for Dual Pump systems in North America. While Idemitsu manufactures fluids for many Japanese OEMs and sells “DPSF” in some regions, availability and labeling differ, and using a non‑Honda bottle may complicate warranty discussions. If you need certainty, buy the Honda/Acura Dual Pump II (or specified DPSF version) and keep the receipt.
Key Takeaway
Use genuine Honda/Acura Dual Pump Fluid II (DPSF/DPSF‑II, or DPSF‑III where specified). Avoid ATF, gear oil, CVT/DCT fluids, and additives. When uncertain, consult the owner’s manual or a dealer with your VIN.
Summary
Honda’s Dual Pump rear differentials require a specialized fluid: Honda/Acura Dual Pump Fluid II—also labeled DPSF/DPSF‑II, and in some markets DPSF‑III. No standard ATF or gear oil is compatible. Apart from region-specific Idemitsu DPSF bottles that match OEM specs, there are effectively no widely endorsed substitutes. For reliability and warranty protection, use the Honda/Acura bottle and follow the maintenance guidance in your owner’s manual.
What is Honda dual pump fluid used for?
ABOUT HONDA DPS FLUID
Its primary roles include lubricating the moving components, controlling the hydraulic system, and transmitting engine torque to the rear wheels when necessary.
Is Honda and Acura dual pump fluid the same?
They’re the same. The only difference is the part number having an A at the end.
Do you have to use Honda differential fluid?
If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. However, the use of any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system.
What viscosity is Honda Dual Pump fluid?
Suitable for Use where Specifications below are required
| Colour | Amber |
|---|---|
| Viscosity, Kinematic, cSt at 100°C | 7 |
| Viscosity Index | 153 |
| Viscosity, Brookfield at -26°C | 58,900 |
| Zinc, Mass % | 0.123 |
