The Aisin transmission fluid is just fine. You can also use Toyota trans fluid, which is less expensive than OEM.

 

Volvo does not make their own transmission fluid, but Aisin Warner does make their own transmissions...

 

Automotive parts aren't priced according to perceived value or acquisition costs. Pricing is performed by algorithm considering factors such as speed of turnover, warranty expense, and competitive advantage. The algorithm has no concept of the part or material value. Manufacturers review fast moving parts and keep the prices low on those items to remove temptation from the automotive aftermarket to manufacture those bits and sell them competitively, amongst other nefarious motives.
In this case, Volvo does not refine petroleum into transmission fluid itself, but rather purchases from suppliers that will meet the stringent specifications. The result is that no smart shopper would buy Volvo fluid, but Dealers are required to, and then sell it to Dealer customers in service work at full pop.
I used Aisin fluid on my last (3309) trans fluid exchange, having full confidence that the company that designed and manufactured my transmission could buy and resell the appropriate fluid, as Aisin doesn't make transmission fluid, either. It was on sale in a kit from FCP. I have heard some folks take advantage of the FCP parts guarantee by shipping the used fluid back and getting the change for nearly free. I just sent a box 8" x 8" x 5" weighing less than pound a distance of 50 miles for $8.20, so I don't think I could even break even on a returns transaction across the country the long way.

 

@Capndirk A large USPS flat rate box (12x12x5) is $24.75 and should fit a case of transmission fluid. I understand there are UPS options for less.

Whether that's actually worth the hassle is a different question.

 

You absolutely should not. Asin makes these transmissions so their fluid is designed for the transmission, and more than likely the Volvo fluid is repackaged Asin fluid marked up by Volvo. Same situation when buying ZF fluid vs BMW branded fluid for BMWs.

 

No reason to fork out extra $ for the Volvo fluid.

 

I don't think you can ship oil Priority Post. If you do, and it leaks, you might find yourself in a heap of trouble.

FCP Euro doesn't use those plastic bags because they're concerned about the environment...

 

Motor oil is not considered a hazardous material

 

It's arguable if it qualifies as a haz mat...

Shipping Restrictions & HAZMAT - What Can You Send in the Mail?

Learn about USPS guidelines on hazardous materials (HAZMAT) or dangerous goods, what it means if an item is restricted or prohibited, and if you may ship food, batteries, alcohol, hand sanitizer, liquids, marijuana, or tobacco through the mail.

www.usps.com

 

I was turned away at the USPS when I tried to ship Trans Fluid back to FCP. They told me it (and any motor oils) fell under the Haz Mat designation and would only ship if the proper papers and stickers were applied to the box. Either way....always say its Car Parts. Just sayin'

 

Can't you just use Valvoline Maxlife?!
Especially in these older vehicles.
🤷‍♂️
Valvoline MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF | Page 2 | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance Forum

 

Can't you just use Valvoline Maxlife?!
Especially in these older vehicles.
🤷‍♂️
Valvoline MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF | Page 2 | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance Forum

You should do just fine with that. In fact, Toyota and Lexus owners considered it an upgrade over WS/3324 for years.

The early years of JWS3324 in usage showed serious problems with it - Toyota was saying to run it 100k miles, but it was frequently failing as early as 60k with excessive slippage. This was especially true in trucks and higher performance cars, like IS and GS models. Owners started using MaxLife and the problems went away.

The complaints have disappered and I suspects some re-engineering went on. But there’s a generation of ownwers from c. 2009 to 2014 who won’t touch WS with a barge pole (I’m one and know several), and use MaxLife instead.

 

I was quoted 1200 for a blind spot module sensor yesterday and I need 2. Sounds about right for Volvo these days.

 

All I know for sure is if you take it into the PO they'll ask you if there's anything liquid in the box. I don't know what happens if you say "yes".

 

I have been running Toyota Type WS fluid in my TF-80SC Gen II transmissions without problems. I can get it from the Toyota dealer for about 9.50$/L at the dealer with my discounts.

 

Im runing 17 years almost 400.000 km Mobil 3309 oil. Volvo used only 1 time and price for 1 liter is 3 x times more expensive than Mobil. Not purchased bcs of price but to stop cheating people i this way. Volvo dont produce any oils.
You cant use any cheap oils in vegetable market as Aisin need special oil.

 

... Anyone on here actually used BOTH and have a first-hand opinion?

Yes, I recently did a couple drain and fills on the coupe, the first time with The Macallan 1926 and the 2nd time, after a slight ponder, the Aisin. I've not looked back...