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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I have taken all my vehicles here for transmission and axle repairs and service for several years now. The staff are pleasant to deal with and they have always delivered what they promise. Had a small issue with my truck and they were very accommodating. Got me in and on the road quickly. I would give 4.5 stars and recommend Mr Transmission for any transmission repairs or service.
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What an amazing team. Chris,...
Tammy Spears
What an amazing team. Chris, Ron and the other wonderful man. My car broke down this afternoon at a gas station but before it broke down the battery warning light kept coming on so I got a boost and drove my car to buy a battery. Well started to drive my car and the battery warning light came on again so I heard that Mr transmission does free car diagnostics so decided to call them and had an appointment for 1: 00. Well I just drove my car straight down there and parked my car in their parking lot because I knew as soon as I shut my car off it won't start. Well these three guys come straight to my car as it was squealing as well. They did their diagnostic and it turned out it was my alternator. Well these guys went out of their way to fix my car on the spot. They only work on transmissions but Chris thought I needed a break and fix my car on the spot. I had the parts delivered and the guys worked on it for hours but only charged me under an hour's labor. Their garage closes at 5:00 but all three of these wonderful men stayed later until my car was running properly. There are no words to express the gratitude I have for these three men. Not too many places go out of their way at their own cost to help someone get back on the road. Finding a garage that's willing to help out in a pinch, especially with something outside their usual scope of work, and then stay late to make sure you're back on the road safely, is incredibly rare and special.
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Joy Hickox
Sanjay and Bailey (technician) are both amazing individuals to deal with.The customer service received from Sanjay is top notch and the knowledge and expertise and honesty from Bailey is incredible!I took my vehicle in there for a second opinion after already being to a different Mr. Transmission location for a diagnostic.Needless to say the outcome I received was the exact same from another location; being that there was absolutely nothing wrong with my CVT transmission (2018 Honda CRV) after being charged $180 and told that my transmission was the issue from my regular mechanic shop a couple days prior.I highly recommend Mr. Transmission (Exeter Rd location) 1000% to anyone and everyone who may be experiencing or believe to be experiencing transmission issues.Their knowledge, customer service, honesty, transparency, and expertise is amazing!Thanks so so so much guys for making my day great and leaving with a huge smile.
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