Originally Posted By: hallstevenson
Originally Posted By: Sayjac
Yes, the 3x d&f ATF is a recommended procedure. Otoh, IME single d&fs every 25-35k miles has worked fine for me on two Hondas, including an 01 Civic and a 3.0L v6. The first now has over 265+k miles on original trans.
Honda does have a write-up describing a 3X drain-and-refill but I'm not sure that by "recommended" they mean do that every time instead of 1X drain-and-refill. In fact, in the manual for the '05 Odyssey we had, it does describe a 3X procedure
but it's after a section where it mentions using DEXRON III as a substitute when Z1 wasn't available....
For the OP's 2012 model Accord there is no mention of the 3x procedure, or since it specs DW1, using Dex III in a bind. Just to use DW1 with d&f according to MM, period.
Otoh, the 01 Civic and 07 Accord OM says " 5.) If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid in to the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark. Always use genuine Honda ATF-Z1(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If it is not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient."
"To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with genuine Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid), then drive the vehicle a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time."
So perhaps only the 3X times procedure is recommended only if Dex III was used, but that's somewhat ambiguous. Could be just if a thorough flush is desired.
Wouldn't even want to think what a Honda dealer would charge for that service.