Hondas are known for amazingly slick shifting gearboxes, but when the S2000 rolled around, the world was left a little disappointed. Yes, I said it. The shifting is notchy when cruising around town. One must be really patient to avoid minor grinds. If you drive aggressively, everything seems to work better. The trip to the grocery store can be annoying though. How do you fix it?

We’ll cut straight to the chase Motorcraft Ford XT-M5-QS Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid changes everything for the better. Compared to the standard Honda Manual Transmission Fluid, you will feel instantly improved shifting at low speeds and cold temperatures.

According to Honda, you shouldn’t use 75W-90 because the oil is too “thick.” Right?!

Inevitably, someone will say, Pro Awe, “you bumbling idiots, the viscosity of the Ford transmission fluid is 75W-90. According to the S2000 owner’s manual, Honda MTF is similar to 10W-30 or 10W-40.” Well, dear reader, the SAE grades Gear Oil and Engine Oil differently. They use similar numerical designations, which is confusing.

As you can see on the chart above, a 10W-40 engine oil is quite similar in viscosity to 75W-90 gear oil. As long as the additive pack within the oil is designed for manual transmissions, which the Ford oil is, you’re good to go. Knowledge acquired!

And, well, that’s it. You’re welcome. Here’s a transmission fluid that is safe to use and greatly improves the driving experience of your Honda S2000.

If you appreciate our advice, do us a big favor and buy your fluid via the following link. You’ll need 2 quarts to do the job. Thanks so much!

P.S. This works great in NA and NB Mazda Miata’s as well!