[ron1004]

Thank you all very much for all the feedback. I will likely give a call to the Kia/Hyundai dealers in my area today or tomorrow to check the prices of atf. If I can get it for around $8-$9/quart then I will go OEM. If not, then I will go with the type HK Idemitsu fluid. Valvoline Maxlife seems like a good bargain, but I have heard too many stories of transmission issues due to universal fluid. Also, I believe that 5 quarts are required for a change in the 5 speed transmission. Am I correct?

That is most likely because the wrong ATF was used - so many folks believe they're all the same - the two Fords we own take different transmission fluids that are disastrous if swiched.

5 quarts is the capacity, but if you want to do a drain & fill you'll need to do that a few times and still not have a total fluid replacement - I drain& fill three times, but would do more if the last drain didn't look too good.

 

[ron1004]

I used AMSOIL signature and did a drain and refill twice a few thousand miles apart. It shifts soo smooth even after the first drain and refill. Better than when I had it new. I’ll never have to change it again. Did the drain and refill around 50k miles.

I'd be concerned if it altered the way it shifts and don't believe any fluid in the specified range will fix an abused transmission.

I have no doubt that Amsoil is good, but the sales arrangement and the fact that we're spoilt with many quality lubricant brands at reasonable prices, I chose not to use Amsoil.

 

[ron1004]

Have 80k miles. I have used amsoil in all my cars drivetrain going way back. Never had one issue mechanically.

I have higher mileage on one of my three vehicles and used OEM Motorcraft ATF in the two with auto trans. Never had one issue mechanically.

Amsoil may be good oil, but its not the only good oil available on the market, and many of the other equally good brands come at a much lower price.

Use Mobil-1 in the engines, and never had a mechanical issue.