Mechanics disagree about whether or not all transmission additives are a good thing. Some believe that transmission additives damage the rubber seals on the transmission and can also reduce the performance of the transmission, according to Quality Trans. Also, transmission additives do not always seal gaps. However, the effectiveness of the additive has a lot to do with the kind of car that the additive is poured into, because additives react differently to different materials.
Anti-friction additives prevent internal parts within the transmission from rubbing together, which reduces the number of breakdowns. The reduction in friction increases the amount of energy that is saved with these transmissions. These additives can reduce the amount of noise produced by the transmission, according to Auto Barn. When this additive is put in the transmission, drivers should notice how much more smoothly the transmission operates.
Sealers are added to the transmission to prevent the transmission from further cracking, according to Auto Barn. These sealers are primarily designed for sealing rubber seals that have become cracked, dried or shrunken.
The automatic transmission protectant reduces the temperature that the transmission is exposed to. This protectant is especially good for the transmissions of cars that are subjected to heavy loads, according to Auto Barn. This protectant maximizes the overall performance of the transmission. This protectant also reduces the amount of noise that the transmission produces.
Many transmission fluids come already with additives. This is because the transmission fluids are subjected to high temperatures and torque, according to Auto Barn. These additives include antioxidants---not the kind that are good for your body, but the kind that prevent rust---dispersants, antiwear, corrosion inhibitors, seal swell agents and foam inhibitors.
Friction modifiers are designed to reduce the amount of shudder that occurs with a transmission with the torque converters. The torque converter is designed for transmitting engine power, reducing lock-up clutches that can slow the vehicle's speed on a highway. When the torque converter responds to the lock-up clutches, a phenomenon known as stick-slip occurs, according to Lubrizol, a company specialized in auto lubricants. Friction modifiers are designed to prevent this stick-slip phenomenon.
The automatic transmission and oil treatment is designed to benefit not only the transmission but also the petroleum base and the synthetic lubricants, according to Alibaba. This additive reduces friction, reduces the temperatures at which the automatic transmission operates, increases operating torque, reduces wear on metal parts and cuts back on the oxidation of the gear system.
