How to Change Honda DW-1 Transmission Fluid

📋 Quick Facts

Honda DW-1 (Dual Pump fluid, type 1) is required for the 5-speed and 6-speed automatics in Accord, Civic, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, MDX, RDX, and TL/TLX from 2011 onward. DW-1 replaced the older Z-1. Honda specifically warns: do not use any ATF except DW-1 in these transmissions. Slip and shudder appear within 3,000 miles with the wrong fluid.

🛠 What You'll Need

• Honda Genuine DW-1 ATF, P/N 08200-9008, 9-12 quarts for triple D&F (Honda DW-1 ATF on Amazon)
• New drain plug crush washer, P/N 94109-20000 (Honda drain plug washers on Amazon)
• 3/8" drive ratchet (drain plug is a 3/8" square recess)
• Funnel for fill (the dipstick tube is the fill point) (funnel set on Amazon)
• Drain pan, 5 qt (oil drain pan on Amazon)
• Torque wrench 10-80 ft-lb (torque wrench on Amazon)

✅ Before You Start - Checklist

• Park on level, solid ground (no slopes, no soft dirt)
• Vehicle and fluids at the correct temperature for the procedure
• All tools, parts, and scanner on hand BEFORE you begin
• Owner's manual and OEM service procedure nearby for torque specs
• Safety: gloves, eye protection, wheel chocks, jack stands rated for vehicle weight

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Drive 10-15 minutes to warm transmissionPark on level ground. Engine off. ATF should be warm but not scorching.
2. Locate the drain plug on the transmission panIt uses a 3/8" square recess (the same as a ratchet drive end). Place drain pan under it.
3. Remove drain plug, drain into panExpect 3 to 3.5 quarts from a single drain. Inspect for metal flakes - any glitter means clutch pack damage.
4. Replace crush washer (P/N 94109-20000)New washer every time. Torque drain plug to 36 ft-lb (49 Nm).
5. Refill through the dipstick tubeThe transmission dipstick is on the engine side, usually yellow. Pull dipstick, insert funnel, pour exactly the same amount you drained.
6. Start engine, cycle shifter P-R-N-D-2-1With brake pressed, hold each gear 5 seconds. Park.
7. Check level on dipstickEngine OFF for Honda. Wipe stick, reinsert fully, pull. Level should be at the top hash mark when at operating temp.
8. Drive 5-10 milesThis circulates new fluid through the torque converter, which holds about half the total fluid.
9. Drain and refill AGAINRepeat steps 2-7. This is the second of three drain-and-fills. Each cycle refreshes about 35% of total fluid.
10. Drive another 5-10 milesNew fluid mixes thoroughly throughout the system.
11. Drain and refill a THIRD timeAfter three drain-and-fills you have replaced approximately 90% of the original fluid - close to a full flush without the cost. Keep an extra case of DW-1 on hand.
12. Test drive, listen for shudderSmooth 35-45 mph cruise with no torque converter shudder confirms a good service. Any shudder under light throttle means the wrong fluid was used previously and the friction material has glazed.
13. Recheck level after cool-downEngine off, transmission warm. Adjust to top hash on dipstick.
14. Log the serviceDate, mileage, total fluid used (9-12 quarts). Next service at +30,000 miles.

✅ After You Finish - Verify Checklist

• No tools left in the engine bay or under the car
• All plugs torqued to spec with new crush washers / gaskets
• Test the system worked on (start, drive, monitor for codes)
• Look for leaks or drips after 30 minutes of cool-down
• Record date, mileage, fluid P/N, and quantity in your service log
• Properly dispose of old fluid at an auto parts store recycling center

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions