What Type of Transmission Fluid Does Hyundai Use?

Hyundai primarily uses its own branded automatic transmission fluids—such as Hyundai SP‑IV, SP‑IV RR, SP‑IV M, and SPH‑IV—for modern automatic and dual‑clutch transmissions, and GL‑4 or GL‑5 gear oils for manual transmissions. The exact fluid type depends on the model year, engine, and transmission, and Hyundai strongly recommends using only the specified fluid (or an officially approved equivalent) to avoid damage and warranty issues.

Why Hyundai’s Transmission Fluid Specification Matters

Hyundai, like most modern automakers, designs its transmissions around specific fluid formulations. These fluids are not simply lubricants; they are part of the transmission’s engineering, affecting shift quality, durability, fuel economy, and even emissions compliance. Using the wrong fluid can quickly cause harsh shifting, overheating, or long‑term damage that may not be covered by warranty.

Main Types of Hyundai Transmission Fluids

Hyundai’s product line includes several families of transmission fluids, especially for automatic and dual‑clutch transmissions used in vehicles from the late 2000s onward. Below is an overview of the most commonly referenced fluid types and what they are generally used for.

Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF)

For Hyundai’s automatic transmissions, the company specifies different SP‑series fluids depending on generation and design. These fluids replace older Dexron/Mercon‑type ATFs and are not interchangeable with those legacy products.

• Hyundai/Kia ATF SP‑III – Used in many older 4‑speed and early 5‑speed automatics (roughly early‑2000s to late‑2000s). It is a proprietary spec and not the same as Dexron III, even if some aftermarket fluids claim “SP‑III compatible.”
• Hyundai/Kia ATF SP‑IV – Widely used in 6‑speed automatics across models like Elantra, Sonata, Tucson, Santa Fe, and others from about 2010 onward. This is a low‑viscosity, fully synthetic ATF formulated for tighter tolerances and improved fuel economy.
• SP‑IV RR / SP‑IV M / SP‑IV SP / SP‑IV LF variants – Newer, more specific variants of SP‑IV used in later‑generation 6‑, 8‑, and some 10‑speed automatics. “RR,” “M,” and other suffixes correspond to particular transmission families and internal hardware; they are not generic replacements for “SP‑IV” unless the service documentation lists them as backward compatible.
• SP‑II and earlier – Found on much older Hyundai models. These are now largely legacy specifications, and Hyundai dealers will typically supply a modern, approved equivalent if OEM fluid is still required for maintenance.

In practice, most modern Hyundai automatics in North America and Europe from about 2010 onward use some form of SP‑IV, but the suffix (or lack of one) must match what is printed in the owner’s manual or on the transmission dipstick/label.

Dual‑Clutch Transmission Fluids (DCT)

Hyundai has invested heavily in dual‑clutch transmissions, especially in compact and midsize models. These gearboxes use dedicated fluids that differ from regular ATF and from manual gear oil.

• SPH‑IV (for wet DCT) – Hyundai’s fluid for many “wet” dual‑clutch transmissions (often found in higher‑torque applications, including some turbocharged or hybrid variants). This fluid has specific friction characteristics to manage clutch engagement in an oil bath.
• DCTF / OEM DCT fluid (for dry DCT) – Some smaller Hyundai DCTs, such as in certain versions of the i30, Veloster, or Kona, use a “dry” dual‑clutch design that can call for a different, often lower‑volume, DCT‑specific fluid. The exact name can vary by market; the service manual will list the official spec.

Because DCTs rely heavily on precise clutch control using software calibrated to a specific fluid, substituting generic ATF or manual gear oil can cause immediate drivability problems and long‑term failure.

Manual Transmission Fluids (MTF)

For conventional manual gearboxes, Hyundai typically specifies gear oil meeting GL‑4 or GL‑5 standards, with viscosity grades defined by climate and gearbox design.

• GL‑4 75W‑85 / 75W‑90 MTF – Often specified for small and midsize Hyundai manual transmissions (e.g., Accent, Elantra, i30 in many markets). GL‑4 fluids balance protection of synchronizers with sufficient extreme‑pressure performance.
• GL‑5 75W‑90 or similar – More common in higher‑load applications, including some SUVs and commercial variants. However, GL‑5 is not always backward compatible with GL‑4 in synchronized gearboxes, so the owner’s manual remains the definitive guide.

Hyundai‑branded manual transmission fluids are available from dealers, but equivalent high‑quality gear oils from reputable brands are often acceptable as long as they meet the exact GL specification and viscosity grade listed for the vehicle.

How to Identify the Correct Fluid for Your Hyundai

Because Hyundai’s lineup spans several decades and multiple transmission families, the precise fluid can differ even between trims of the same model year. Owners should always verify the specification before changing or topping off fluid.

Check the Owner’s Manual and Under‑Hood Labels

The most reliable source of information is your vehicle’s own documentation and labels. Hyundai is explicit about not mixing or substituting fluids outside of approved specs.

• Owner’s manual: The “Specifications” or “Maintenance” section usually lists the exact transmission fluid type—e.g., “Automatic transmission: Hyundai Genuine ATF SP‑IV.”
• Service booklet or warranty guide: These sometimes add clarifications on approved alternative fluids or change intervals.
• Under‑hood labels: Many Hyundai models have a label on the transmission dipstick, filler cap, or near the radiator support that states “Use only SP‑IV” or similar wording.
• Online VIN‑based lookup: Hyundai’s official service portals and some dealer sites allow you to input your VIN to retrieve factory‑specified fluids and capacities.

Verifying these sources ensures you are not relying on generalized advice or assumptions based on model family alone.

Regional and Model‑Specific Variations

Hyundai markets slightly different versions of the same basic model in various regions, and these can use different transmissions—and therefore different fluids.

• North America vs. Europe vs. Asia: An Elantra in the U.S. may use a 6‑speed automatic with SP‑IV, while an i30 in Europe of the same era might have a DCT needing SPH‑IV or a manual requiring GL‑4 gear oil.
• Engine/trim differences: Turbocharged or hybrid versions often have different transmissions (e.g., wet DCTs or hybrid‑specific automatics) that require their own fluid type.
• Generation changes: A 2013 and a 2019 Sonata may both be automatics but can use different SP‑series fluids due to redesigns in internal components, valve bodies, and torque converters.

This makes it risky to assume that a fluid spec from a forum post or from a similar‑year vehicle automatically applies to your specific car.

Hyundai’s Stance on “Lifetime” Transmission Fluid

Hyundai has, in many owner’s manuals and marketing materials, referred to certain automatic transmission fluids as “fill for life” or “no scheduled replacement.” This has created confusion among owners about whether they should ever change the fluid at all.

What “Lifetime” Usually Means

In modern automotive marketing, “lifetime” fluid usually means the expected life of the transmission under normal driving conditions—not the entire life of the vehicle in every situation.

• Normal vs. severe service: Manuals often have separate maintenance schedules. “Severe” usage (frequent stop‑and‑go, towing, high heat, mountainous terrain) may list a change interval even when “normal” use does not.
• Warranty perspective: Manufacturers design their maintenance schedules largely to cover the period of the powertrain warranty. Keeping the fluid unchanged may be acceptable to reach 100,000–120,000 miles (or region‑specific equivalent), but not necessarily for long‑term ownership.
• Dealer recommendations: Many Hyundai dealers recommend proactive changes of ATF and DCT fluid—often around 60,000–90,000 miles (100,000–150,000 km)—to extend transmission life, especially in hot climates.

Owners planning to keep a Hyundai beyond the warranty period often opt for periodic fluid changes, using only the exact specified type, as a form of preventative maintenance.

Using Aftermarket vs. Genuine Hyundai Fluid

While Hyundai sells its own branded transmission fluids, there are also aftermarket products that claim compatibility with SP‑series ATF or Hyundai DCT/MTF specifications. Choosing between them requires careful attention to labeling and approvals.

When Aftermarket Fluids May Be Acceptable

Some large lubricant manufacturers formulate fluids that are tested and officially approved to meet Hyundai’s specifications. These are usually safe to use when they clearly list the relevant Hyundai spec.

• Explicit spec listing: Look for bottles that state “Meets Hyundai/Kia SP‑IV” (or SP‑III, SPH‑IV, etc.) along with appropriate industry standards.
• Reputable brands: Multinational oil companies and OEM‑supplier brands are more likely to have conducted real testing with Hyundai or its transmission suppliers.
• Local availability and cost: In some regions, genuine Hyundai fluid can be expensive or hard to source; high‑quality, properly specified aftermarket fluids can be a practical alternative.

When in doubt, cross‑check the product data sheet (PDS) for the fluid online to confirm that your Hyundai specification is explicitly listed, not just “recommended for use where…” with no formal approval.

Risks of Using “Universal” or Incorrect Fluids

Many multi‑vehicle ATFs claim to cover an extremely wide range of specs but may not truly match Hyundai’s friction and viscosity profiles, especially for modern SP‑IV and DCT applications.

• Shift quality problems: Incorrect friction modifiers can cause flares, harsh shifts, or shudder.
• Overheating and wear: A fluid that is too thick or too thin for the transmission design can cause increased heat, reducing component life.
• Warranty issues: If a failure occurs and analysis shows non‑approved fluid was used, Hyundai can deny warranty coverage for transmission repairs.

For vehicles still under warranty—or for owners who prioritize long‑term reliability—the safest course is to use genuine Hyundai fluid or an explicitly approved aftermarket equivalent.

Practical Guidance for Hyundai Owners

For everyday Hyundai drivers deciding how to service their transmissions, a few practical steps can reduce risk and cost over the vehicle’s life.

Key Steps Before Any Fluid Change

Because transmission servicing is less forgiving than engine oil changes, preparation is essential. The following steps help ensure the correct fluid and procedure are used.

1. Confirm the exact transmission type: Use your VIN and manufacturer resources (owner’s manual, dealer parts counter, or an official service portal) to identify whether you have a conventional automatic, dual‑clutch (wet or dry), CVT in a few regional models, or a manual gearbox.
2. Verify the fluid specification and capacity: Note the Hyundai spec (e.g., SP‑IV, SP‑IV RR, SPH‑IV, GL‑4 75W‑85) and the drain/refill capacity vs. full overhaul capacity.
3. Decide on change method: Check whether the service procedure calls for a simple drain‑and‑fill, pan removal with filter cleaning or replacement, or a specific sequence for DCT clutch fluid.
4. Choose fluid source: Decide between dealer‑supplied genuine fluid and an aftermarket option that explicitly meets the listed Hyundai spec.
5. Document the service: Keep receipts, fluid labels, and date/mileage records for warranty and resale purposes.

Following these steps reduces the chance of errors, supports warranty claims, and provides future buyers with confidence in the vehicle’s maintenance history.

Recognizing When Fluid Service May Be Needed

Even if the manual lists no strict change interval, real‑world conditions can make earlier service wise. Owners should watch for symptoms that may indicate degraded or incorrect fluid.

• Delayed or harsh shifting: Noticeable hesitation when shifting into drive or reverse, or abrupt gear changes while driving, can signal fluid breakdown or level issues.
• Shudder or slipping: A vibration or slipping sensation under light acceleration may point to worn fluid, especially in DCT and torque‑converter automatics.
• Unusual noises: Whining, grinding, or clunking noises in manuals or automatics may be linked to low or contaminated fluid.
• Fluid discoloration or burnt smell: A very dark color and burnt odor (where inspection is possible) suggest the fluid has overheated and lost protective properties.

These symptoms do not always mean a fluid change will fix the issue, but they are strong signals to have the transmission inspected promptly by a qualified technician familiar with Hyundai models.

Summary

Hyundai uses its own family of transmission fluids—most notably SP‑III and SP‑IV (and their variants) for automatics, SPH‑IV and other DCT‑specific fluids for dual‑clutch gearboxes, and GL‑4/GL‑5 gear oils for manual transmissions. The exact type depends on the vehicle’s model, year, region, and transmission design, and Hyundai emphasizes that only specified or officially approved fluids should be used.

Owners should rely on the vehicle’s owner’s manual, under‑hood labels, and VIN‑based service information to confirm the correct specification, and be cautious with “universal” or non‑approved fluids. While some Hyundai transmissions are marketed as having “lifetime” fluid under normal conditions, many drivers and technicians opt for periodic fluid changes—using the proper Hyundai‑specified fluid—to maximize reliability and service life.

Is all ATF +4 full synthetic?

Yes, ATF+4 is a full-synthetic automatic transmission fluid. It was developed by Chrysler for their transmissions and is now made by various licensed brands. Its synthetic base provides superior performance, including better thermal stability, reduced wear, and consistent shift quality compared to older fluids. 

• Full synthetic: ATF+4 is formulated with high-quality synthetic base stocks and an advanced additive package. 
• Chrysler specification: It meets the Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602 and is officially licensed for use in Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, and Jeep automatic transmissions. 
• Backward compatible: It is compatible with older transmissions that require ATF+, ATF+2, and ATF+3, and is recommended as a replacement for the discontinued ATF+3. 
• Performance benefits: The synthetic formula offers better protection against wear, oxidation, and foaming, leading to a longer transmission life and smoother shifting. 

What transmission fluid does Hyundai use?

Genuine Hyundai Fluid 00232-19012 SP III Automatic Transmission Fluid – 1 Quart.

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2019 Hyundai Accent take?

Hyundai SP-IV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).

Are ATF and CVT transmission fluid the same?

No, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid are not the same and are not interchangeable. ATF is designed to minimize friction in gear-based automatic transmissions, while CVT fluid is formulated to have specific friction properties to allow the belt or chain to grip the pulleys in a belt-driven CVT system without slipping. Using the wrong fluid can cause serious and irreversible damage to the transmission. 
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

• Function: Lubricates and provides hydraulic pressure for the gear sets, clutches, and bands in a traditional automatic transmission.
• Key property: Designed to reduce friction for smooth gear changes.
• Color: Often red or green to differentiate it from other fluids. 

This video explains what happens if you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 44sCounty Office LawYouTube · Oct 26, 2024
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Fluid

• Function: Operates the belt or chain in a CVT’s pulley system. 
• Key property: Formulated to have specific friction properties that allow the belt to grip the pulleys, preventing slippage. 
• Color: Can vary, but some have a green color. 

Why they are not interchangeable

• Different engineering: CVTs use a belt and pulley system, while traditional automatics use a set of gears. The different operating principles require different fluid properties. 
• Friction control: ATF minimizes friction, which is the opposite of what a CVT needs. Using ATF in a CVT will cause the belt to slip, leading to damage. 
• Severe damage: Even a small amount of the wrong fluid can cause significant and potentially irreversible damage to a CVT. Always check your owner’s manual to ensure you are using the correct fluid for your specific vehicle.