
The Best Transmission Fluid Additives Protect from Wear and Tear
- 1. Editor's Pick: Lucas Transmission Fix Lucas is a long-time leader in the world of engine oil additives, so it should come as no surprise that the company also provides a top transmission fluid additive. ...
- 2. Marvel Mystery Oil ...
- 3. Bar’s Leaks Transmission Repair ...
- 4. Sea Foam Trans Tune ...
- 5. Prolong Super Lubricants Transmission Treatment ...
Full Answer
What is the best brand transmission fluid?
- Genuine Honda Transmission
- Honda DW-1 Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 quart, Pack of 4
- Its wide viscosity range provides outstanding protection
What is recommended for transmission fluid?
allison transmission recommends that customers use an allison approved tes 295 automatic transmission fluid to extend drain intervals and to enhance transmission performance and durability in all operating environments.
How do you replace transmission fluid?
Part 4 of 4: Replacing the transmission fluid
- Find the transmission filler plug. If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, locate the transmission filler plug. ...
- Remove the filler plug. Using the ratchet and appropriate socket, remove the filler plug.
- Add the new transmission fluid. ...
- Replace the filler plug. ...
- Lower the vehicle. ...
- Locate and remove the dipstick. ...
- Add the new transmission fluid. ...
How much transmission fluid should I Need?
The recommended amount of transmission fluid to add for regular cars is about 12 to 16quarts. Normally many vehicles have a dip stick for changing fluid but not all cars come with it and for the cars that don’t come with dips sticks, it might require that you lift up the vehicle and check for fluid below the car.

Does transmission fix fluid work?
The additives in Lucas Transmission Fix do seem to improve gear engagement, but stopping transmission leaks tends to be hit or miss (it really depends on the severity of the leak). The bottom line is, Lucas can help with problems normally associated with worn, high mileage transmissions.
What's the best transmission fix in a bottle?
Our pick for the best transmission additive is the Prolong Super Lubricants PSL15000. It is one of the best transmission additives on the market. It reduces leaks, shudders, slippage, and sludge buildup. For a less pricey option, consider the Lucas LUC10009.
What is the best automatic transmission fix?
Editor's Pick: Lucas Transmission Fix. ... Marvel Mystery Oil. ... Bar's Leaks Transmission Repair. ... Sea Foam Trans Tune. ... Prolong Super Lubricants Transmission Treatment.
What's the best additive for a slipping transmission?
10 Best Transmission Additive For Slipping In 2022#Product1Hot Shot's Secret - HSSTSE32Z Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 32 Fluid Ounce BottleBuy on Amazon2Bar's Leaks 1416 Super Transmission Fix - 16.9 oz.Buy on Amazon3Bar's Leaks 1414 CVT Transmission Fix - 11 oz.Buy on Amazon7 more rows
How much Lucas Transmission Fix should I use?
One 24 oz. bottle of Lucas Transmission Fix can be added to existing fluid without draining. A second bottle may be necessary in large or badly worn transmissions. In smaller transmissions (compact or sub-compact vehicles), use 12 oz.
What does Lucas Transmission Fix do?
Lucas Transmission Fix is a non-solvent formula that stops slip, hesitation and rough shifting in worn transmissions and completely eliminates most seal leaks. Use in any transmission for preventative maintenance. Use also in light duty manual transmissions to increase shifting ease and transmission life.
Will a transmission fluid change Fix slipping?
For low fluid levels, you'll need to add more fluid to repair the problem. For burnt or damaged fluid, you'll need to drain the exhausted fluid and replace it with new fluid. For a leak, however, at least part of your transmission will need to be resealed to prevent further slipping and transmission problems.
Where do you put Lucas Transmission Fix?
0:051:45Lucas Transmission Fix - It Works! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMost sealed leaks are completely eliminated.MoreMost sealed leaks are completely eliminated.
Will adding transmission fluid help shifting?
Transmission fluid makes sure you can shift smoothly by lubricating the parts of your transmission. It also cools them down, so you won't have to worry about your clutch or solenoid overheating.
How do I get rid of transmission shudder?
Fortunately, fixing a shuddering transmission is often as simple as getting a transmission flush to replace the contaminated transmission fluid with clean, fresh fluid.
Will seafoam help my transmission?
Sea Foam's Trans Tune works fast to reliquefy varnish deposits from valve bodies, solenoids and shift actuators. Before you spend $$$$ on a new transmission, try adding a can of Trans Tune to your fluid filler – super easy! Also works great as a fluid cleaner and conditioner, or as a pre-flush cleaner.
Can anything help a slipping transmission?
Transmission bands can become worn and broken, which can cause transmission slipping as well as engine troubles and worn out gears. Bands are what link the gears in the automatic transmission together. To fix this problem technicians need to replace or adjust the defective band.
How do you fix a slipping transmission?
1:504:13How to Fix a Slipping Transmission in Your Car (Fluid Change) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou just pulled the pan out and as you can see there's a lot of black crud inside then go back ontoMoreYou just pulled the pan out and as you can see there's a lot of black crud inside then go back onto the transmissions on the GM's the filter just pulls. Right off and you replace them due.
Can Marvel Mystery oil be used in a transmission?
A: Yes, MMO is safe for usage in automatic transmissions. Use no more than 16 ounces of MMO in the automatic transmission.
Does prolong transmission treatment work?
Prolong Transmission Treatment is particularly effective under extreme pressure conditions, providing significant protection against the most costly automotive repairs. It promotes smoother manual shifts and helps restore responsiveness in automatic transmissions, especially in critical quick-acceleration conditions.
Why use additive in transmission fluid?
The reason why both DIYers and professional mechanics opt for this product is the overall versatility and convenience. The additive is compatible with all synthetic automatic transmission fluids and proves to be rather efficient. The application is simple, and the product comes at a reasonable price. Therefore, drivers can protect, maintain, and repair the transmission system without much effort at all.
What is automatic transmission fluid?
Automatic gears tend to be smaller and have more moving parts compared to a manual gearbox. Therefore, the automatic transmission fluid, as well as additives, are on a different level than manual gearbox fluid. Automatic transmission additives have low viscosity and anti-foaming properties and are resistant to heat.
How much does transmission additive cost?
Depending on the manufacturing company, transmission additives here are popular due to their basic use and affordable price. $10-$30: The best transmission additives can be found at this price range.
What does it mean when your transmission suddenly starts acting up?
Has your car’s transmission suddenly started acting up? Is it shuddering while you’re on the road, or putting you through harsh, uncomfortable changes you can feel from behind the wheel, it’s time to check out what’s happening under the hood. Problems like these could mean your transmission is in need of repairs. But it could also indicate an issue with your transmission fluid. While you might not think about your car’s transmission fluid very frequently, it’s a small part of your vehicle’s most critical system.
Why invest in transmission additive?
Therefore, investing in a good transmission additive will help minimize leaks. Minimize varnish and sludge formation. After extensive use, even high-quality transmission fluids begin to wear out and thicken. This happens when dirt and other contaminants mix with the fluid forming sludge.
Where are prolong lubricants made?
Prolong Super Lubricants is an American company headquartered in California that deals in the manufacturing, sale, and global distribution of a line of high-performance automotive lubricants. Prolong’s history is the perfect example of an American success story. The company was founded back in the 1990s. The founders operated from the back of a small shop packing the products themselves. Several years later, Prolong Lubricants Inc now sells millions of high-performance lubricants all over the world. The company’s products are based on an extreme pressure lubricant additive that is used for metal lubrication, commonly known as anti-friction metal treatment (AFMT). One of its popular products is Prolong Super Lubricants PSL15000.
How does a manual transmission work?
Manual gears operate on a system that has two shafts with gears. These gears mesh together after user input through the gear stick and clutch. As a result , the manual transmission system creates a lot of heat, friction, and force when the two moving objects come together.
Why do you need transmission fluid additives?
If that’s not enough to keep track of, you can also buy transmission fluid additives designed to correct performance problems and provide better protection for your transmission’s complicated mechanical components.
Why is transmission fluid important?
Transmission fluid is especially important in automatic transmissions, in which the fluid not only lubricates the transmission’s moving parts but also provides the hydraulic pressure needed to make smooth gear changes. But not all transmission fluids are alike.
How often do you need to change the transmission fluid in your vehicle?
Some carmakers prescribe that you change the transmission fluid at set intervals, like every 12,000 miles, for example. Others will tell you to inspect the condition of the transmission fluid periodically. If you can still see some of the transmission fluid’s original color (it is often pink when it’s new), it’s probably fine. But if it is has turned dark brown and/or has taken on a burnt smell, it’s time to change it.
Are transmission fluid additives safe to use in your vehicle?
Yes, they should be safe to use without fear of damaging your vehicle. However, if a fluid is not specifically recommended by the company that made your vehicle, using it could void the warranty if your car or truck exhibits transmission problems.
What is triax transyn?
Triax Transyn is formulated to meet a DCT’s specific lubrication needs. That’s an important point, because the inner workings of a dual-clutch transmission are much different than those of a traditional automatic. Triax’s transmission fluid boasts low-friction chemistry to support the quick, smooth shifts that dual-clutch transmissions are known for. It also helps reduce wear and tear on the transmission’s gear sets. According to the company’s specifications, Transyn remains fluid at temperatures down to minus 60-degrees Fahrenheit.
How does automatic transmission work?
Your automatic transmission pressurizes its lubricant to provide hydraulic force used to activate valves that tell the transmission when to shift and what gear to use .
What is a CVT transmission?
If your vehicle has a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a design that is now common in mainstream cars and SUVs, it needs its own specific type of fluid. And the requirements are different still in high-end ...
How to know what transmission fluid to use?
Start by checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This will show you exactly which type of transmission fluid you need, so you’re prepared to pick the best one in that class. Keep in mind that most cars use either Dexron or Mercon, but some imports will require brand-specific transmission fluid.
Why is fresh transmission fluid better for you?
Better fuel economy. Fresh transmission fluid has better resistance to oxidation and meets the lubricating and viscosity standards more easily. These factors can translate into better fuel economy for your car.
What kind of oil does a manual transmission need?
Manual transmissions work a bit differently than automatic ones, which means they also need a different kind of transmission fluid. Red Line’s GL-4 transmission lubricant is our top pick for your manual car (just make sure it meets your specs). The formulation is less slippery and low in sulfur, which makes it compatible with brass synchronizers, and it meets the requirements of 70W, 75W, 80W, SAE 30, 5W30, and 10W30 motor oil. It’s also available in a higher viscosity formulation (MT-85 and MT-90).
Why change transmission fluid?
Benefits of Changing Your Transmission Fluid 1 Better fuel economy. Fresh transmission fluid has better resistance to oxidation and meets the lubricating and viscosity standards more easily. These factors can translate into better fuel economy for your car. 2 Smoother shifting. When you regularly check and service your car’s transmission fluid, it will result in the smoother movement for your gears. In the long run, it will also protect your gearbox, likely saving you an expensive repair. 3 Reduced costs. Changing your own transmission fluid can save you time and money. You can reduce the costs even further by using a synthetic transmission fluid, which has a longer overall lifespan and a couple of other features that make it last longer. 4 Extended transmission life. A well-maintained car is one that gets regular transmission fluid top-offs and a complete flush and replenishment when needed. This routine maintenance will help keep your transmission in great working order, and likely extend the life of it in the long run. 5 Rust reduction. Transmissions can be pretty finicky when it comes to stuff like rust and corrosion. Moisture, chemicals, and a whole host of other factors can wreak havoc on your transmission, so be sure to change your transmission fluid when recommended to reduce these potential problems.
What is a well maintained transmission?
Extended transmission life. A well-maintained car is one that gets regular transmission fluid top-offs and a complete flush and replenishment when needed. This routine maintenance will help keep your transmission in great working order, and likely extend the life of it in the long run. Rust reduction.
What is HFM fluid?
Similar to the Dexron/Mercon transmission fluid, HFM fluids provide slightly different friction characteristics that are better suited to some types of transmissions. This fluid is on the market under a couple of different names and is used by a number of imports.
Is monolec oil based fluid harmful?
While a number of these can be helpful for improving performance and the overall life of both the transmission and the fluid itself, others can be harmful. Monolec is one example of a beneficial additive you can look for.
Why do you need transmission fluid?
You use them for lubrication, to maintain the appropriate pressure, and to cool your vehicle’s transmission. Whether you own a vehicle with a manual or an automatic transmission, you need the best transmission fluid to keep everything running smoothly.
Why is it important to change transmission fluid?
Otherwise, the fluid you’ve used will start losing its efficiency over time. This happens because of prolonged heating and because of contaminates. Read on to learn more about how to choose the right transmission fluid for your needs.
Why does my transmission fluid break down?
This, in turn, causes a change in the viscosity and the fluid’s lubrication properties. When this happens, it might cause problems in the operation, and it can also cause your transmission to fail.
What is the purpose of a transmission fluid replacement?
This will provide you with smoother gear changes, improve the efficiency of your transmission, and more.
What is automatic transmission fluid?
Automatic transmission fluids or ATFs will provide your vehicle with anti-rust, cooling, lubrication, and more qualities. Using this will prevent your transmission from overheating and producing debris. This, in turn, will maintain the quality and effectiveness of all the components inside of your transmission.
Is manual transmission fluid better than automatic transmission?
Manual transmissions are easier to maintain than the automatic ones. With such transmission, you can use manual transmission fluid, an ATF, a synthetic oil, and more. Also, you won’t need to change the fluid as frequently so you might want to choose a product which has a longer shelf life if you have manual transmission.
Is Red Line 30504 D4 transmission fluid good?
The cold-temperature viscosity of this product is much lower, and this provides the improved shifting performance. The Red Line 30504 D4 Automatic Transmission Fluid also offers enhanced stability. With this product, you can give your vehicle better protection from varnishing while lengthening your transmission’s lifespan. All these features combined with a reasonable price makes it one of the best.
What is the best additive for slipping transmissions?
Lucas Transmission Fix is our top pick and the best additive for slipping transmission. The non-solvent formula is effective and reliable when it comes to dealing with issues related to performance. This transmission treatment gives car owners the best of both worlds in terms of quality and price with a 24-ounce bottle that will give any car the tune-up it deserves. Lucas transmission fluid decreases the operating temperature and puts an end to foaming. The formula is also solvent free and is capable of drying up most seal leaks, however, it does not work on CVT systems. In terms of prevention, this additive allows vehicle owners to carry out preventative maintenance at an affordable price.
How does transmission fluid change over time?
Transmission fluids can get contaminated over time and their consistency will change as a result. They become more sluggish and stop flowing smoothly. This change is certainly not for the better and will negatively affect the transmission system. Friction will increase due to decreased lubrication and the sluggish fluid will eventually merge with other impurities such as dirt and grime and become thicker and less effective. Varnish is one more thing to worry about since it can clog the vital parts of your transmission. This will eventually lead to failed clutches and bearings and an overall drop in performance. Fluid treatment in the form of additives will stop these impurities from forming and allow the transmission fluid to flow freely within the system.
What is Zmax transmission?
zMax transmission formula boosts performance at an incredibly cheap price. The 6-ounce bottle may be small, but it can be used for both automatic and manual gears. zMax was designed to reduce leaks and varnish as well. Fluid loss happens due to the presence of road debris and heat within the system and this is far from favorable. Varnish buildup is also a nuisance and can easily wreak havoc on the gears, which is why applying an additive like zMax is necessary. The formula can be used in modern cars without a problem but is not compatible with CVT transmissions.
Why are manual transmissions so hot?
Manual gears generate heat and friction due to their mechanism and their two-shaft system. Constant heat and friction require an effective and reliable transmission fluid that will keep all components running smoothly and efficiently. Manual transmission additives were formulated to complement the actions of the fluid and help reduce operating temperatures. They have higher heat resistance and a higher viscosity.
Why is it important to use additives in transmissions?
Using additives will help slow down this process and extend the life of transmissions both old and new. Reducing wear is incredibly important especially for car owners who drive in harsh weather conditions where extreme temperatures, moisture and other elements can wreak havoc on the vehicle as a whole.
What is trans tuner additive?
The Trans Tune transmission additive from Sea Foam is another quality product made of three blended oils. The formula is not only effective in tackling transmission related problems, but it also flushes out moisture and damaging deposits found in hydraulic pumps and power steering systems. Trans Tune works with all commercial synthetic and petroleum based hydraulic fluids without altering their viscosity. It also cleans sticky valves and reduces rough shifting thanks to its petroleum-based formula. This quick action fluid conditions automatic transmission fluids and stops oil loss without softening the seals or O-rings.
Why use transmission additives?
This is where being proactive counts. Transmission additives allow you to carry out preventative maintenance that involves rejuvenating and protecting the system and its metal components.
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) Full Synthetic
Valvoline Multi-Vehicle (ATF) comes as a full gallon fluid. It may be expensive, but it is worth every penny you spend. It will help you have smooth gear shifting and a better driving experience in different terrains.
Genuine Toyota Lexus WS ATF World Standard
Toyota Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid ensures proper lubrication of all automatic transmission components. It also delivers the best performance at all operating temperatures. So, you don’t have to think about the climatic condition when buying this transmission fluid.
ACDelco GM Full Synthetic ATF
ACDelco Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed for modern automatic transmission fitted in the GM vehicle. Despite the high price, buying this fluid is an investment that will pay off. You will enjoy a smoother ride and get maximum transmission service life.
Genuine Honda Fluid 08200-9008 ATF-DW1
It offers a smoother ride, and you won’t notice when shifting gears. Your ride will be smooth regardless of the driving conditions. But before replacing the transmission fluid with this, clean out your transmission to avoid mixing it with the old one.
Why do you need transmission fluid?
This recommendation also helps to protect the moving parts of your transmission while helping to stop fluid leaks. Transmission fluid is thinner than motor oil and as it breaks down, it gets even thinner. As a result, it drains down quickly when the vehicle is not running, leading to metal-to-metal contact on start-up.
What is the purpose of a transmission fluid cleaner?
Pros / Cleans out deposits of dirt around the gears, in the valve body and everywhere transmission fluid flows, provides layer of protection, can also be used in other powertrain systems
What is Bar's leaks transmission repair?
Bar’s Leaks Transmission Repair comes from one of the largest brands of automotive additives. Bar’s Leaks has been around for ages, and it offers a product to help in just about every fluid on your vehicle. Like several of its products, this transmission additive is packaged in a two-in-one design. In one side of the bottle is a product that is promised to restore performance. In the other side of the split bottle, it states that it will add protection.
Why does transmission fluid discolor?
First, even with proper lubrication, the natural friction between internal components wears down every moving part. As those parts break down, microscopic debris is mixed into the transmission fluid, which is what causes the majority of fluid discoloration. Also, as fluid wears out and breaks down, the fluid loses its ability to properly lubricate and disperse heat. As the fluid gets hotter, it breaks down more, leading to less protection of the metal surfaces and increased wear.
How to fix a rough running transmission?
This product begins by loosening any debris build-up in the valve body and gear area . A cleaner valve body leads to smoother shifts and less hang-ups between gears. The Sea Foam also cleans and conditions the transmission fluid, breaking up any accumulated debris while also removing moisture from the system.
What is the purpose of Lucas transmission fix?
The primary function of Lucas Transmission Fix is to prevent slipping, hesitation, and rough shifts. It does this by providing a thick, protective coating of all of the components. The thick fluid lubricates the inner workings of the transmission valve body, improving shift quality. The Lucas product also refreshes the shift bands, helping to prevent slippage under power.
What is a TSE transmission stiction?
Formerly known as TSE Transmission Stiction Eliminator, Shift Restore from Hot Shot’s Secret acts quickly to solve any and all issues facing automatic transmissions: including erratic and inconsistent shifting, hesitation, rough operation, excessive noise and overheating. It does this by safely dissolving the harmful gum and varnish that can build up inside your transmission over time, primarily due to burnt and overworked transmission fluid. (It works great in CVT transmissions as well.)
What is Bar's Super Transmission Fix?
Bar’s Leaks Super Transmission Fix is an advanced, synthetic-blend treatment for transmission fluid, seals, metal surfaces, bands and clutch plates. Global domestic/import formulation can be used in all automatics, manuals, CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions) and DCTs (Dual Clutch Transmissions).
How long does it take to see results from a super transmission fix?
Add Super Transmission Fix to transmission per dosage chart on package. Consult owner’s manual if needed for transmission dipstick/fill plug location. Do not overfill. Drive vehicle normally. Depending on the transmission problem, results will be immediate or noticeable within 250 miles or 3 days of driving. In transmissions with seriously damaged components, a second treatment may be required. In this case, it is suggested that the fluid and filter be changed before adding a second bottle.
