Full-synthetic ATF that meets both GM DEXRON VI and Ford Mercon LV, covering 6L80, 6L90, 6T70, 6R80, and 6F35 six-speeds in one gallon jug.
Owners of a 6L80 Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Camaro, Corvette or Escalade usually land here for one of two reasons: the truck is due for a fluid and filter service, or it has started to shudder or shift harshly and old fluid is the first suspect. This is Valvoline's full synthetic DEXRON-VI/MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid in a one gallon jug. Valvoline's data sheet states it is officially licensed and GM approved for the DEXRON-VI specification, recommended for Ford Mercon LV applications, and back-serviceable where DEXRON-II or DEXRON-III was originally called for.
In a 6L80 the fluid is more than a lubricant. It is the hydraulic medium the valve body uses to apply five clutches, the coolant that carries heat out to the radiator cooler, and the friction modifier that lets the torque converter clutch slip smoothly while it locks and unlocks. The transmission computer adapts shift timing to how that fluid behaves, so a fluid that has thinned out or lost its friction additives shows up as shudder at light throttle and as shifts the computer keeps trying to correct. Valvoline lists anti-wear and enhanced anti-shudder additives in this formula, with a typical viscosity of 6.0 cSt at 100 C and a pour point of -48 C, which is the low-viscosity profile DEXRON-VI units are designed around.
Check the level and condition first, because the 6L80 has no dipstick and an overfill or underfill causes shift complaints of its own. Our 6L80 fluid type and capacity guide lists GM's published numbers, and the 6L80 fluid leak guide helps if the level keeps dropping. If the fluid is fresh and the truck still shudders, the converter clutch or the valve body may be the real issue.
Use this fluid in any transmission whose owner manual calls for DEXRON-VI, which covers the GM 6L45, 6L50, 6L80 and 6L90 and the front-drive 6T40 and 6T70 families, and in Ford units that call for Mercon LV such as the 6R60, 6R75, 6R80 and 6F35. Do not use it in a unit that specifies DEXRON ULV, Mercon ULV, a CVT fluid or a Chrysler ATF+4. Chevrolet Performance publishes about 6 quarts for a 6L80 pan and filter service and roughly 10.5 quarts after an overhaul, so a pan service takes two jugs and a full refill takes three. For everything else on the unit see our 6L80 parts collection.
Drain the pan, replace the filter and seal, and refill through the case fill point with a GM ATF filler adapter. GM's level check is done with the engine running, the shifter swept through each range, and the fluid in the specified temperature window; remove the check plug and let excess drain until it drips. GM's 2015 Camaro owner manual, as one example, lists no fluid change on the normal chart through 150,000 miles but a fluid and filter change every 45,000 miles under severe service, so check your own manual's severe chart if you tow or idle in heat. If you are upgrading, a 6L80 deep aluminum pan kit adds capacity and includes a filter. Reset adapts after the service. The step-by-step for one popular application is in our 6L80 Silverado 1500 fluid change guide.
| Spec | GM DEXRON VI and Ford Mercon LV |
| Base | Full synthetic |
| Fits | GM 6L45/6L80/6L90, 6T40/6T70; Ford 6R60/6R75/6R80, 6F35 |
| Volume | 1 gallon |
| Features | Anti-shudder and anti-wear additives |
| Color | Dyed red for leak detection |
| Ships from | USA |
Yes. Valvoline's product data sheet states it is officially licensed and GM approved for the DEXRON-VI specification and recommended for Ford Mercon LV applications.
A pan and filter service takes about 6 quarts, so buy two gallons. After an overhaul with a dry converter you need roughly 10.5 to 12 quarts, so plan on three.
Valvoline says the fluid is back-serviceable where DEXRON-II or DEXRON-III was recommended, so it can be used in those older GM transmissions.
It often helps when the shudder comes from worn-out fluid, but it will not repair a damaged converter clutch. Change the fluid, reset adapts and drive it; if the shudder stays, diagnose the converter.
No. Many newer GM 8- and 10-speed units call for DEXRON ULV. Always use the fluid named in your owner manual.
