Transmission Additives- Do They Work?

By Mister Transmission

When it comes to transmission additives, why are the shelves at most auto suppliers loaded with “miracle” fluids that will allegedly make up for a prior lack of maintenance? Can these additives actually fix a transmission?

Let`s be frank. There are no “miracle” fluids that can substitute for preventative maintenance, this is just common sense. The only way to repair a transmission problem is to properly diagnose it by road testing, scanning the computer, and removing the pan for inspection.

Fluid additives do offer limited benefits for vehicles being used for certain tasks or in certain climates or weather conditions. Here we’ll cover the basics of ATF importance, why most vehicles don’t require these additives and the instances when ATF additives can help.

First of all, a refresher on why we need ATF in the first place. ATF is essential to the smooth running of a vehicle’s transmission. ATF has lubricants, protectants and detergents that protect the transmission and keeps it in good working order.

Generally, most vehicles are simply used to take people to work, school or shopping so don’t need ATF additives. For these everyday activities the manufacturer recommended automatic transmission fluid alone should be enough to protect the transmission in most situations they will encounter. As long as the owner of the vehicle takes the time to makes sure there is enough transmission fluid in it and they change the transmission fluid when it is dirty there should be no need for an automatic transmission fluid additive.

There is no fluid that will:

  • unclog plugged filters
  • free-up stuck valves/solenoids
  • reduce internal corrosion
  • improve shift feel/firmness
  • prolong the life of your transmission
  • replace the friction material on your transmission’s clutch plates
  • put the teeth back on the stripped gears

Keep in mind that most vehicle manufacturers have warnings in their owner’s manuals stating: “Do not use supplemental oil additives, cleaners or other treatments. They are unnecessary and could lead to damage that is not covered by warranty.” Or: “Using supplemental additives is generally unnecessary and can even be harmful. One should never use an additive to attempt to fix a mechanical problem.”

Who could benefit from using additives?

A small majority of vehicle owners could potentially benefit from using these additives. Mainly, vehicles with high mileage which are constantly being used to tow heavy loads in adverse weather conditions. Heat and wear are the enemies of a transmission. Vehicles which are involved in racing or towing heavy loads are hard on transmissions. They often generate excessive heat. While transmissions have built-in systems to mitigate some of this heat and strain these activities cause, the transmissions in vehicles which are under a great deal of stress can often benefit from using automatic transmission fluid additives.

For the owners of these vehicles the minor cost of additives makes using them a no brainer. Hence, there seem to be instances when ATF additives can help yet even in those situations, however, it is essential to get the right ATF additive.

So, the next time someone tells you they have a miraculous transmission additive for sale you’ll know better.

If you’re experiencing any sort of transmission problem, please contact your local Mister Transmission and book an appointment for our FREE 21-Point Multi-Check Inspection.

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Customer Reviews
Highly recommended. Ray and guz....
Jason Yang
Highly recommended. Ray and guz. Very professional and honest with their work. I drop off my 2018 ford f150 with a 10speed transmission for rebuild and it was nicely done. I got my truck back within a week waiting for parts from ford take the longest. truck drive like new again. Im Very happy. Thank you guys.
Date: May 4, 2023
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Took my truck into the...
Kyle Sandahl
Took my truck into the guys and they did a good job and it was pretty quick aswell!
Date: May 3, 2023
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One of the best experience...
Adonis Contreras
One of the best experience my wife and I ever had with any mechanic. Coco and her son, were both amazing, they helped us with our immediate issue. Honest and trustworthy, friendly and understanding. God smiled on us that day when our car problem presented and we were lucky to have been at their shop. They turned a problematic day into one of the finest experiences of our lives.
Date: May 2, 2023
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A year ago I had...
Gladys OC
A year ago I had a transmission job done there and haven't had any problems, the receptionist was very pleasant, helpful and respectful... best part they charge reasonable price so I guess they have excellent mechanics that really know about transmissions and did a great job, I would recommend this place. Gladys Ortiz. I don't think they do oil change or any other auto mechanical services because I just called and was told they don't do that.
Date: May 2, 2023
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They have excellent customer service...
Tracy Beckham
They have excellent customer service at this location. Dan went above and beyond to help me get the best option to replace my transmission. Definitely will use them for service again.
Date: May 1, 2023
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"Great service, good analysis of...
Ken Margeson
"Great service, good analysis of the problem and a solution..Definitely felt I was a valued customer . Thanks"
Date: May 1, 2023
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Super service done by them...
Niharika Khurana
Super service done by them for my new transmission and excellent after sales service as well
Date: May 1, 2023
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They gave excellent service, I’ve...
Jamol Melbourne
They gave excellent service, I’ve done business with Rays shop for a long time. Honest person.
Date: May 1, 2023
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Darren was polite and honest...
Glenna Daisey
Darren was polite and honest about the work required. How long it was going to take and my options. I was comfortable through the whole process.
Date: April 30, 2023
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Excellent service, extremely nice to...
Mircea Tocitu
Excellent service, extremely nice to talk to, explained everything into detail good repair.
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