which trasmission fluid to use

[1999windstar]

2001 2.4 160000 miles I am going to change tranny fluid. The parts store sold me dexton III. I checked on Alldata, and the is a TSB that says to use type VI. I am not sure if I have this worded right. What fluid is right?

[BNaylor]

The original ATF was Dexron III which is still available. Dexron VI is the newer replacement which can be used and supposedly compatible with Dexron III. All GM cars 2006 and up come with Dexron VI.

[1999windstar]

Will the new VI cause a problem? I am not sure when the fluid was changed, we bought the car with 133000 on it. The mileage has dropped a little so I am doing maintenance to try to bring it backup. Ive changed spark plugs, fuel filter, checked wheel bearing.

I read some posts about having the air intake cleaned at the dealer. What is the procedure they use, can I do it my self?

[BNaylor]

Hard to say. It shouldn't but you never know for sure. I don't know of any members with an Alero with 4T45E autotransaxle using it so we have no positive anecdotal data here. We use Dexron III in our Alero. However, I use Dexron VI in my Buick Regals with the 4T65E autotransaxle and no issues to date. Plus the shifting feels better.

You can clean the MAF sensor with MAF sensor spray cleaner and the throttle body with throttle body spray cleaner. Be sure to clean the IAC valve and the seat where it mounts to the TB.

[zzyzzx2]

They still make Dexron III? I don't see it in the stores.

[canalguyopen]

no they still make it i just bought some through carquest. i have the 2000 2.4 and never used anything but dex III. i wouldnt trust a change at this age.