> I suggest you read other forums and posts regarding at least Honda
> fluids for ATF, power steering, and coolant (and Dual Pump fluid if
> you have AWD). The Honda auto trans is not the same animal as other
> auto trans, and the type Z fluid does provide smoother shifting. Many
> who have tried generic power steering fluid have found that it attacks
> the Honda seals and causes them to leak. Most coolants have silicates
> and borates, which Honda coolant does not contain. These additives
> can cause premature failure of the water pump.
>
> Do what you want, but if you do, you take your chances. For me, when
> I look at the time and money spent on keeping a car well maintained,
> the increase to use certain Honda fluids is minimal. Now I do use
> other brands of oil and brake fluid, but be careful on substituting
> the ones listed above.

FYI, Honda does not make ANY petroleum based fluids... the big oil companies
do (Chevron, Mobil, Exxon, etc.)... they are just badged as Honda (I would
like to find out who makes Honda oil, etc.). It is funny to hear people
praise Honda fluids and bash all others. I would NOT use generic fluids
either, use any of the many Brand Name fluids that meet the required specs
for your car. Similarly for things like antifreeze, just use one that meets
the specs in the manual (phosphate free, etc).