Original ZF lubricant from ATS
ZF LifeguardFluid 5 — the right fluid keeps a ZF automatic alive
ZF LifeguardFluid 5 is developed for ZF automatic passenger-car transmissions where the oil is part of the shift system, not just a lubricant. Its friction behavior, lubricating-film stability and thermal resistance help protect internal components, support smooth gear changes and preserve the comfort of ZF 4HP20 and 5HP automatic transmissions.
Semi-synthetic ATF for ZF 4-speed and 5-speed passenger-car automatic transmissions
11
ZF 5HP green-plate / green-label automatics and dedicated 4HP20 / 5HP service-fill applications where Lifeguard Fluid 5 is explicitly listed
Many vehicle manufacturers treat the factory fill as maintenance-free, but we recommend scheduled oil service after 150,000 km. Green-plate / green-label 5HP units must use Lifeguard Fluid 5, not generic class 11B ATF.
Why Choose Original ZF Lifeguard Fluid 5
Lifeguard Fluid 5 is the dedicated service fluid for 5HP green-plate / green-label units and the listed 4HP20 / 5HP service-fill applications.
- ZF states that green-plate or green-label 5HP transmissions must strictly use Lifeguard Fluid 5; standard class 11B ATFs are prohibited in those units.
- ZF warns that only explicitly released ATF should be used for service or top-off; non-approved substitute ATF can create shift issues or kinematic degradation.
Compatible ZF Groups and Typical Models
| Vehicle / unit group | ZF families and examples | Classes |
|---|---|---|
| 5HP Series (Green Plate / Label) | 5HP18, 5HP30 | 11B |
| 4HP / 5HP Series (Dedicated Fluids) | 4HP20, 5HP19, 5HP19FL, 5HP19FLA, 5HP19HL, 5HP19HLA, 5HP24, 5HP24A | 11B |
ZF TE-ML Coverage at a Glance
Passenger car automatic transmissions
Lifeguard Fluid 5 is the dedicated TE-ML 11 passenger-car fluid for green-plate 5HP units and selected 4HP / 5HP service-fill cases.
Oil Change Intervals (Key References)
| Reference | Interval |
|---|---|
| Normal passenger-car operation | ZF recommends scheduled oil service after 150,000 km |
| Severe operating conditions | Shorter oil service intervals adapted to the operating conditions |
| Older 3- and 4-speed automatic transmissions | Consult the vehicle manufacturer specification |
Filter and Quantity Verification
For Lifeguard Fluid 5, identify the exact ZF 5HP or 4HP / 5HP unit, then confirm the oil-change kit, filter/pan configuration and filling procedure before supply.
Main Applications and Related ZF Transmission Pages
FAQ
Which ZF passenger-car automatic transmissions use Lifeguard Fluid 5?
For Lifeguard Fluid 5, identify the exact ZF 5HP or 4HP / 5HP unit, then confirm the oil-change kit, filter/pan configuration and filling procedure before supply.
Why is the green-plate 5HP requirement important?
For Lifeguard Fluid 5, identify the exact ZF 5HP or 4HP / 5HP unit, then confirm the oil-change kit, filter/pan configuration and filling procedure before supply.
When should Lifeguard Fluid 5 be changed?
For Lifeguard Fluid 5, identify the exact ZF 5HP or 4HP / 5HP unit, then confirm the oil-change kit, filter/pan configuration and filling procedure before supply.
Why does ATS need the exact 5HP or 4HP20 / 5HP unit before quoting?
For Lifeguard Fluid 5, identify the exact ZF 5HP or 4HP / 5HP unit, then confirm the oil-change kit, filter/pan configuration and filling procedure before supply.
What to Send for Fast Compatibility Check
- Photo of the ZF nameplate or the exact gearbox code.
- Vehicle make, model, year and current mileage.
- Symptoms, preventive service request or previous oil history if known.
- VIN or OEM gearbox reference when available.
Need this original ZF lubricant for your transmission?
Send ATS the ZF type plate and vehicle data. We confirm compatibility, quantity, filter, price and availability.