Here is a table summarizing the key differences between motor oil and transmission oil:
| Feature | Motor Oil | Transmission Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Lubricates moving parts of engine and protects them from wear and tear; cools engine and keeps it clean | Lubricates gears and bearings in transmission and protects them from wear and tear; cools transmission and keeps it clean |
| Viscosity | Typically thicker than transmission oil | Typically thinner than motor oil |
| Additives | Contains detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants | Contains extreme pressure (EP) additives and anti-foaming agents |
| Color | Typically amber or brown | Typically red or orange |
| Smell | Typically has a petroleum smell | Typically has a sweet smell |
It is important to use the correct type of oil in your vehicle's engine and transmission. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to damage to the engine or transmission.