The Hyundai A6LF3 6-speed automatic transmission was assembled in Korea from 2009 to 2018 and was paired with a highly powerful 2.2-liter D4HB diesel engine producing 441 Nm of torque. In many markets, this transmission is primarily known from the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento crossovers.
A6 family: A6GF1, A6MF1, A6MF2, A6LF1, A6LF2, A6LF3.
In 2009, the A6LF3, a new 6-speed automatic transmission from Hyundai, was introduced. It was designed exclusively for the 2.2-liter diesel engine with 441 Nm of torque. It is a classic hydromechanical automatic transmission with a torque converter, three planetary gear sets, brake clutches, clutches, and a freewheel. Notable features include a parachoidal oil pump and a valve body with eight solenoids.
Over the course of its production, the transmission has been upgraded several times, and several modifications exist, so it’s important to carefully select a donor unit on the aftermarket, as not all versions are compatible.
Specifications
| Type | automatic transmission |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of drive | front / all wheel |
| Engine volume, l | up to 2.2 |
| Torque output, Nm | up to 440 |
| Recommended oil | Hyundai ATF SP-IV |
| Oil capacity, liter | 7.8 |
| Partial replacement, liter | 4.5 |
| Maintenance | every 60 000 km |
| Gearbox lifespan, km | ~250 000 km |
Gear ratios Hyundai-Kia A6LF3
Using the example of a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe with a 2.2-liter diesel engine:
| Main | 3.195 |
| 1st | 4.651 |
| 2nd | 2.831 |
| 3rd | 1.842 |
| 4th | 1.386 |
| 5th | 1.000 |
| 6th | 0.772 |
| Reverse | 3.393 |
Using
The transmission was installed on:
- Hyundai Grandeur 5 (HG) in 2011 – 2016;
- Hyundai ix55 1 (EN) in 2011 – 2015;
- Hyundai Santa Fe 2 (CM) in 2009 – 2012; Santa Fe 3 (DM) in 2012 – 2018;
- Kia Carnival 2 (VQ) in 2010 – 2014; Carnival 3 (YP) in 2014 – 2017;
- Kia Sorento 2 (XM) in 2009 – 2014; Sorento 3 (UM) in 2014 – 2018.
Disadvantages of the Hyundai-Kia A6LF3 gearbox
- Throughout the first few years, we struggled with shift shocks by releasing new firmware updates. The 2-6 and 3-5 clutch packs also served relatively little in the transmission. The oil pump of the first version was mounted on a bushing and would spin when overheated.
- Another common transmission failure in the early years of production was the loosening of the central pinion bolts, which led to clutch misalignment and burnout. In the most severe cases, this resulted in failure of the entire transmission.
- During vigorous driving, the torque converter lockup clutches quickly wear out, and contaminated oil immediately clogs the valve body, causing shift shocks. So, we recommend changing the lubricant more frequently, rather than as recommended in the official manuals.
- A common problem with this series of Hyundai-Kia automatic transmissions is a loud crunching noise in the differential due to stripped splines. This transmission is designed for city driving and is sensitive to off-road driving with frequent slippage.
- Other problems are electrical: the solenoid wiring harness burns out, and contamination can cause the input/output RPM or temperature sensors to malfunction.
