Hi guys I have a two part question, I own an automatic 2003 xfire coupe and would like to know what transmission oil to use? I’ve googled and looked on here but keep getting different answers.

second question is could I suck the oil out of the transmission dipstick tube to change the oil or top it up?

thanks

 

I use valvoline max life multi vehicle. Its been in my car for years.

 

Shell ATF 134 or Pentosin ATF 134 or the genuine Mercedes fluid which is way more expensive.

 

There are bad ideas, then there are BADideas. That is a BADidea.
NOT with an automatic. There is a specific procedure for the auto. Manuals are EASY, but autos? You've got to follow the 487 step procedure, use the right fluid, pray first to the little German automotive god, pay off the local auto service mafia -and even then, chances are good you will destroy the transmission anyway.


SERIOUSLY, I'd not go near an automatic, I'd only trust it to someone who CAN be trusted. Here in the states, I can think of five Crossfire tech guys I'd trust. Over there, I have no clue but I DO know our automatic is NOT unique to the Crossfire and many shops know what they are doing.

Do not miss Ronman's fluid advice.

 

yeah I get what you mean, but is it possible to add tranny oil into the dipstick hole?

 

YOu can add to top off a low level, yes, this is from Zach J (MrPEabody on the forum) who is qualified to answer auto trans questions, which I am not qualified for.

He says you can but servicing the transmission, as in fluid changes, are 'involved' and you should be looking to "NAG1" videos on Youtube for details.

 

what type of oil does it take because I’ve been told that any 5w30 engine oil will work but I’ve also been told that it has to be a specific MB transmission oil 🤷🏼‍♂️

 

Mobile 1 5W20 for the manual, set post 3 for autos.

 

Where do you find or get the transmission dipstick? I saw the video for checking it, but wasn't pulled from the car.

 

I ordered mine on Amazon. It's universal for other Mercedes.

 

this is the link to the dipstick I ordered:

 

Just push it in till it hits the pan and then remove it. Do not try to push it all of the way in.

 

According to the manual: "Use only ATF approved to MB 236.10, MB 236.12 . Synthetic Dextron III Automatic Transmission Fluid may be substituted." 8.5 qts.

 

Shell ATF134 is readily found in most discount auto part stores & meets MB236.12. Price for a 6-pack of the fluid is reasonable on Amazon.

Just saw Ronman's Post #3. So comment above just repeats his post.

I think I read somewhere that the Shell product was what M-B used during assembly of the cars originally. And remember if you ever consider purchasing the M-B products for engine oil, transmission fluid, etc., M-B doesn't own a plant where these products are produced. They have a contract with a firm or firms that do produce these products and those products fill bottles with M-B labeling on them. And I forgot to mention it is quite possible that the contract M-B has with it's supplier of various fluids probably goes up for bid every year or 2 or ? to keep costs down & profit margins where required.