2010 Honda Fit Transmission Fluid: The Exact Type You Should Use

Use Genuine Honda ATF DW-1 for the 5-speed automatic or Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for the 5-speed manual. The 2010 Honda Fit in North America did not come with a CVT, but some international versions did; those require Honda CVT fluid, not ATF. Choosing the correct fluid protects the transmission’s internal components, maintains smooth shifting, and helps ensure long-term reliability.

Recommended fluid by transmission type

5-speed automatic (U.S./Canada models)

Honda specifies Genuine Honda ATF DW-1 for the 2010 Fit’s 5-speed automatic. DW-1 supersedes the older ATF-Z1 and is fully backward compatible. Avoid Dexron/Mercon or “universal” ATFs; the friction characteristics differ and can lead to harsh shifts, shutter, or premature wear. When servicing, use drain-and-fill rather than a power flush, and install a new crush washer on the drain plug.

5-speed manual

Honda specifies Genuine Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid). If Honda MTF is temporarily unavailable, an API GL-4 75W-80 manual transmission fluid that explicitly states compatibility with Honda synchros is an acceptable short-term substitute. Do not use GL-5 gear oil; its additives can attack the brass/bronze synchros and impair shift quality.

CVT-equipped Fits (some markets outside North America)

If your 2010 Fit/Jazz was sold with a CVT in your region, use the exact Honda CVT fluid indicated under the hood or in the owner’s manual. Do not substitute automatic transmission fluid. Honda CVT fluid specifications vary by model year and market (e.g., HMMF or later formulations), so verify the label or consult your local Honda service information.

Why the correct fluid matters

Honda designs its transmissions around specific friction and viscosity profiles. Using the specified fluid ensures proper torque converter lockup and clutch behavior in automatics, and correct synchro engagement in manuals. The right fluid helps prevent shudder, flare, and gear grind, and supports long-term durability of seals, bearings, and control solenoids.

Service notes and intervals

Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s Maintenance Minder. Many owners opt to replace automatic transmission fluid and manual transmission fluid between 30,000–60,000 miles (48,000–96,000 km) under severe service, but intervals can vary by driving conditions. Always perform a drain-and-fill with the vehicle level, measure what comes out, refill with the same amount of the correct fluid, and check the level per Honda’s procedure. Avoid power flush machines on Honda automatics.

How to confirm what you have before buying fluid

The following quick checks help ensure you buy the correct fluid by identifying your transmission type and any regional differences. Use them before you purchase or service fluid.

• Shifter and pedals: A PRNDL gate and no clutch pedal indicates the 5-speed automatic; a clutch pedal and H-pattern shifter indicates the 5-speed manual.
• Owner’s manual and under-hood labels: Honda lists the exact fluid spec; look for “ATF DW-1,” “Honda MTF,” or CVT fluid notes in non-U.S./Canada models.
• VIN and build data: A dealer can decode your VIN to confirm transmission type and the correct fluid.
• Service history: Prior service records may list the transmission type and the fluid previously used.

Confirming these details up front ensures you select the precise Honda-specified fluid and avoid costly misfills.

Acceptable substitutes and what to avoid

While Honda recommends its own fluids, owners sometimes consider alternatives. The points below clarify when a substitute may be acceptable and what to steer clear of.

• Automatic: Use Genuine Honda ATF DW-1. Some premium ATFs claim “compatible with Honda DW-1”; if you choose one, verify explicit DW-1 compatibility from the manufacturer. Avoid Dexron/Mercon formulations.
• Manual: Use Genuine Honda MTF. As a temporary fallback, choose an API GL-4 75W-80 that notes Honda synchro compatibility. Avoid GL-5 gear oils.
• CVT (if applicable in your market): Use only the Honda-specified CVT fluid for your exact model; do not use ATF or “CVT-universal” fluids without a Honda-specific approval.

Sticking to Honda’s specified fluids is the safest way to maintain shift quality and longevity; substitutes should be used only when they clearly meet the Honda specification.

Summary

A 2010 Honda Fit with a 5-speed automatic uses Genuine Honda ATF DW-1, and a 5-speed manual uses Genuine Honda MTF. In markets where a 2010 Fit/Jazz has a CVT, use the exact Honda CVT fluid listed for that vehicle. Using the correct fluid preserves shift quality, protects internal components, and supports long-term reliability—always verify your transmission type and follow the owner’s manual for service intervals and procedures.

What type of transmission does a 2010 Honda Fit have?

A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and a 5-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on Fit Sport models equipped with the available automatic transmission allow for manual gear selection.

Do Hondas require special transmission fluid?

Yes, for optimal corrosion prevention, component compatibility, and performance, it is highly recommended to use genuine Honda transmission fluid. While some third-party multi-vehicle fluids may seem like a cost-effective alternative, they are not specifically designed for Honda’s unique internal components and can lead to costly repairs due to corrosion or improper shifting. Always use the fluid specified in your owner’s manual, and if you can’t find the genuine Honda fluid, contact your Honda dealership to confirm a suitable alternative. 
Why Use Honda Transmission Fluid?

• Corrosion Protection: Honda designs its fluids to be compatible with the specific metal alloys and rubber compounds used in its vehicles, minimizing corrosion and extending the life of transmission components. 
• Unique Transmission Design: Honda transmissions have a unique design, often compared to a manual transmission with clutch packs, which requires very specific fluid properties to operate correctly. 
• Performance and Reliability: Using the correct fluid ensures smooth shifting, proper operation, and overall longevity of your transmission, preventing expensive repairs from using the wrong fluid. 
• Manufacturer Testing: Honda spends significant resources testing its fluids to ensure they meet the performance and durability standards for their vehicles. 

What to Do if You Can’t Find Honda Fluid

• Consult the Owner’s Manual: . Opens in new tabAlways refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type. 
• Contact a Dealership: . Opens in new tabIf you’re having trouble finding the specific Honda fluid, a dealership can help you locate it. 
• Avoid Generic or Third-Party Fluids: . Opens in new tabIt’s best to avoid multi-vehicle fluids, as they may not have the specific properties needed for your Honda’s transmission, potentially leading to damage over time. 

Key Takeaway:
While it might seem like a small cost saving, using the wrong transmission fluid can lead to thousands of dollars in repair costs. For the best performance and to protect your investment, always stick with genuine Honda transmission fluid.

What happens if you use ATF instead of CVT fluid?

Putting automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a continuously variable transmission (CVT) can lead to serious damage and eventual failure. CVT transmissions rely on specific friction properties of CVT fluid to function correctly, and ATF lacks these crucial characteristics. Using ATF in a CVT can cause the belt or chain to slip, leading to wear, poor performance, and ultimately, transmission failure. 
Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• CVT Fluid Properties: CVT fluid is designed to provide the right amount of friction for the belt or chain to grip the pulleys, ensuring proper power transfer. It also contains specific additives to prevent excessive wear. 
• ATF’s Low Friction: Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is formulated for a different type of transmission and has low friction properties. When used in a CVT, it can cause the belt or chain to slip, leading to: 
  • Reduced Performance: The transmission may not be able to transmit power efficiently, resulting in sluggish acceleration and poor overall performance. 
  • Excessive Wear: The slippage can cause rapid wear on the belt/chain and pulleys, potentially leading to premature failure. 
  • Transmission Failure: In the long run, the slippage and wear can cause the CVT to fail completely, requiring a costly repair or replacement. 
• Warning Signs: Some warning signs of using the wrong fluid in a CVT include strange engine sounds, stalling after gear changes, rough shifting, and gears that slip. 

In summary, using ATF in a CVT is a bad idea. It’s crucial to use the correct fluid for your transmission to ensure proper function and longevity.

What kind of transmission fluid for a 2010 Honda Fit?

STP Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid 1 Quart
Honda Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Z1, part #08200-9001.