I've searched and there isn't any solid threads really comparing the two.

Background: Our MDX has 132k miles on the original transmission. I've had to replace a couple solenoids and besides that, just ATF replacements every 15k miles or so. No funny shifting issues, just a little TC whine and that's it.

I run Amsoil engine oil for all synthetic oil changes that come through my shop and kept getting pestered by my rep(very knowledgeable old man) to try their synthetic ATF. I finally gave in and did the fluid change today. So far, it shifts into D, R, etc more responsive, and shifts a little smoother while at speed. I am always very weary of trying aftermarket fluids, especially in Hondas, but I see the Z-1 fluid break down so quickly, and what kills our transmissions is failed fluid(usually from heat), that kills the friction materiel on the clutch packs.

I'll keep posting updates also. I plan on changing the fluid again next oil change, to try and get more Amsoil ATF in there, as there's no way to change the fluid out completely without draining the TC or using a flush machine(not going to do that with Amsoil).

So far so good! Anybody else running Amsoil ATF?

 

I wish our customers way down here would do trans services every 15K. not only would it save alot of transmission warranties, but would actually make us a little money at the same time. about 90% of the trans failures we see at our dealership are due to lack of maintenance and the customer relying solely on the warranty to cover their *** when it fails. and the sad thing is, Honda will actually give these buttholes a new trans at no cost to the customer to let them go do it again. it's like pulling teeth to get some of these people to service their trans every 30K miles.

I am very curious to see how the amsoil turns out in your trans and how well it will work. I actually run amsoil in my motor in my turbo car and can't say anything bad about it at all, so please do keep us posted on the progress...

 

Have about 1500 on the fluid so far and nothing but great news.

More responsive, smoother shifts, etc. We didn't have issues with the trans prior, but you can definitely feel the difference. The synthetic fluid will not brake down as fast, thus lubricating clutch packs more efficiently. The higher detergent oil will also cause less plugging and keep the seals in good shape

Did another trans service on a customers 04 Pilot with 55k, complaining about funnier shifts lately. Transmission is shifting smoother now and should continue to do so with another couple fluid changes, weening out the Z1 fluid.

 

How is it going? I'm thinking about doing a drain/fill with Amsoil ATF to see how my honda likes it.

 

I'm the customer who got Amsoil tranny fluid at 55k and I definitely could notice a difference. Smoother shifts, not as notchy...just feels better. I'm going to have him to another tranny service earlier than normal to get more of the Z1 out and more Amsoil in like he said above.

 

I use Amsoil in my tranny because it's harder to use up and also synthetic is easier on the parts in most cases. I haven't seen one bad thing and I have done two oil changes so far w/the Amsoil, though it is kinda expensive