What Transmission Fluid for a Honda Accord

Use the Honda-branded fluid that matches your Accord’s transmission: ATF DW-1 for most conventional automatics up to 2017, ATF Type 2.0 for the 10-speed automatic (2018+ 2.0T models), HCF-2 for CVT and Accord Hybrid e‑CVT models (2013+), and Honda Genuine MTF for manual transmissions. Check your owner’s manual or the under‑hood label to confirm the exact spec for your year and trim. This guidance covers U.S.-market Accords through the current model year.

Why the correct fluid matters

Honda transmission fluids are engineered for specific hardware: torque-converter automatics, belt-type CVTs, the 10‑speed planetary automatic, and manual gearboxes all have different friction and thermal needs. Using the wrong fluid can cause shudder, slipping, premature wear, or warranty issues. The safest approach is to use the exact Honda fluid type specified for your transmission and model year.

Identify your Accord’s transmission

Start by confirming which transmission you have. Recent Accords have used several types: conventional automatics (older and V6 models), a 10‑speed automatic (2.0T only), CVTs (most 4‑cylinder trims), an e‑CVT in hybrids, and, in some years, a 6‑speed manual. Your VIN sticker, owner’s manual, and under-hood labels will indicate the transmission type.

Correct fluid by model year and transmission

Conventional automatics (4/5/6‑speed torque‑converter AT)

The majority of non‑CVT, non‑10‑speed Accord automatics use Honda ATF DW‑1. Older models that originally specified ATF‑Z1 should now use DW‑1, which supersedes Z1.

• 1990–2002: Originally ATF‑Z1; Honda ATF DW‑1 is the approved replacement.
• 2003–2012: 5‑speed automatics use Honda ATF DW‑1.
• 2013–2017: V6 models with 6‑speed automatic use Honda ATF DW‑1.

Do not use DW‑1 in CVT or 10‑speed transmissions. DW‑1 is backward compatible with Z1, but Z1 is discontinued.

10‑speed automatic (10AT)

Accords equipped with the 2.0‑liter turbo and 10‑speed automatic require a different fluid formulation.

• 2018–2022: 2.0T models with 10AT use Honda ATF Type 2.0.

Do not substitute DW‑1 or universal ATF in the 10AT; use Honda ATF Type 2.0 only.

CVT and Hybrid e‑CVT

Most late‑model 4‑cylinder Accords use a belt‑type CVT, and all Accord Hybrids use an e‑CVT. Both specify Honda’s CVT fluid.

• 2013–2017: 2.4L (CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2. 2014–2017 Hybrid (e‑CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2.
• 2018–2022: 1.5T (CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2. 2018–2022 Hybrid (e‑CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2.
• 2023–2025: 1.5T (CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2. 2023–2025 Hybrid (e‑CVT) uses Honda HCF‑2.

Never use ATF DW‑1 or Type 2.0 in a CVT or hybrid e‑CVT. HCF‑2 is the correct Honda CVT fluid for these applications. Regional specs can vary slightly; always verify in your owner’s manual.

Manual transmissions (5MT/6MT)

Accords with manual gearboxes require Honda’s dedicated manual transmission fluid.

• All years with manual transmission: Use Honda Genuine MTF.
• Examples include 2003–2012 5MT and 2013–2020 6MT (certain Sport/2.0T trims).

Do not use gear oil or ATF in place of Honda MTF; the synchronizers require the correct Honda MTF friction characteristics.

Fluid change intervals and capacities

Honda uses a Maintenance Minder system that triggers transmission service (often sub‑code “3”). Intervals vary with driving conditions; follow the Minder first, and use the ranges below as general guidance. Always measure what you drain and refill with the same amount, then top up to the proper level per the service manual.

• Conventional automatics (DW‑1): Change when Maintenance Minder calls, commonly 60,000–90,000 miles under normal use; 30,000–60,000 miles in severe service. Typical drain‑and‑fill volume is about 2.5–3.5 US qt (2.4–3.3 L).
• 10‑speed automatic (Type 2.0): Service per Maintenance Minder; many owners see 60,000–90,000 miles. Typical drain‑and‑fill volume is roughly 3.0–3.5 US qt (2.8–3.3 L).
• CVT and Hybrid e‑CVT (HCF‑2): Often 60,000 miles in severe use; otherwise per Maintenance Minder. Typical drain‑and‑fill volume is about 3.5–4.0 US qt (3.3–3.8 L).
• Manual (MTF): Commonly 45,000–60,000 miles in severe service; 90,000+ miles otherwise. Typical refill is about 1.9–2.3 US qt (1.8–2.2 L).

Exact capacities vary by year and transmission. For best results, perform a simple drain‑and‑fill (not a power flush), drive briefly, and repeat once or twice if you want a higher percentage of fresh fluid.

Best practices and cautions

Using the right fluid and service method protects shift quality and longevity. These tips reflect Honda’s service guidance and common best practices.

• Use only the specified Honda fluid for your transmission type; avoid “universal” substitutes.
• Do not mix fluid types (e.g., DW‑1 with HCF‑2 or Type 2.0).
• Avoid machine “flushes.” Honda recommends drain‑and‑fill service.
• Replace the crush washer on the drain plug and torque to spec per the service manual.
• Verify fluid temperature and level-check procedure (some CVT/10AT checks are temperature‑dependent).
• If your cap/dipstick or owner’s manual conflicts with online advice, follow Honda’s documentation.

These steps reduce the risk of leaks, overfilling, or drivability issues after service.

Where to confirm your exact specification

Your car’s documentation is the final authority. If in doubt, check these sources before purchasing fluid.

• Owner’s manual and maintenance guide for your model year and trim.
• Under‑hood labels on the transmission dipstick/cap or near the radiator support.
• Dealer parts counter using your VIN.
• Honda’s official service information site for torque specs and procedures.

A quick VIN lookup ensures you get the correct fluid, especially for trims with multiple transmission options in the same model year.

Summary

Match the fluid to the transmission: Honda ATF DW‑1 for most conventional automatics (and as the replacement for older ATF‑Z1), Honda ATF Type 2.0 for the 10‑speed automatic in 2.0T models, Honda HCF‑2 for CVT and Accord Hybrid e‑CVT units, and Honda Genuine MTF for all manual transmissions. Follow the Maintenance Minder, use drain‑and‑fill service, and verify specs in your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim.

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2016 Honda Accord take?

For the 2016 Honda Accord, the correct transmission fluid type depends on the engine and transmission type. For 4-cylinder models with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), use Honda Genuine HCF-2 fluid. For V6 models with a traditional automatic transmission, use Honda ATF-DW1 fluid. Always check your owner’s manual or consult a Honda parts specialist to confirm the exact type for your specific vehicle. 
Key points:

• CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) (4-cylinder): Requires Honda Genuine HCF-2 fluid. 
• Automatic Transmission (V6): Requires Honda ATF-DW1 fluid. 
• Owner’s manual is essential: Always refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate information on fluid type and capacity. 
• Genuine Honda fluid is recommended: Using the correct Honda fluid is crucial for optimal performance and to avoid potential damage to the transmission. 

What type of transmission fluid for a 2005 Honda Accord?

For a 2005 Honda Accord, the recommended automatic transmission fluid is Honda ATF-Z1. If ATF-Z1 is not available, a Dexron III ATF can be used as a temporary replacement. However, it’s best to use the Honda ATF-Z1, or its replacement, ATF DW-1, for optimal performance. 
This video shows how to change the transmission fluid on a 2003-2007 Honda Accord and what type of fluid to use: 36sBig Dog50001 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 6, 2021
Key points about Honda Accord transmission fluid:

• Honda ATF-Z1: The original fluid recommended for 2005 Honda Accords, and it’s still available at dealerships. 
• ATF DW-1: Honda’s replacement for ATF-Z1, also suitable for 2005 models. 
• Dexron III: A temporary alternative if ATF-Z1 or DW-1 is unavailable, but not recommended for long-term use. 
• Dealer Recommended: Honda dealerships can provide the correct fluid and are a good source for purchasing the correct fluid. 
• Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on fluid recommendations. 

Does Honda need special transmission fluid?

While Honda recommends not flushing your automatic transmission fluid, given the risk that the pressure from the flush pump might damage the solenoids, they do recommend that you use genuine Honda automatic transmission fluid.

Does it matter what transmission fluid you use?

You have different brands with different mixtures and additives designed for specific types of transmissions. Using the wrong kind of transmission fluid in your car can lead to major damage over time.