Every auto parts store in America has a wall of engine and transmission additives that, regardless of what’s actually in them, guarantees to repair or rebuild some component or system that needs actual, mechanical work. There’s some sort of tincture for nearly every problem, from leaking radiators to worn valve seals to slipping transmissions, and nearly all of them are auto parts store products to keep away from. Give it some thought, if you happen to could really, truly fix your automotive with a $10 bottle of goop out of your local AutoZone, how would skilled mechanics stay in business?
That said, while most of them are snake oil, a few of them actually do something. Some engine oil additives can slow or temporarily stop oil leaks by softening old, hardened gaskets and seals, for instance, and fuel injector cleaners can actually work wonders to your vehicle. Nevertheless, other additives often do more harm than good, each to your wallet and your engine.
What about transmission additives, though? Do the assorted “clutches in a bottle” additives do anything for an old or worn out transmission? Is adding a transmission additive to your transmission fluid price it? Well, let’s speak about it.
If we’re being honest, it depends
Is it price adding a transmission additive? Well, because it is with numerous automotive questions, it will depend on your automotive’s situation. Additives which have friction enhancers in them or claim to stop automatic transmissions from slipping have their place, but there is a catch. You must only really use something like this if you happen to’re attempting to squeeze just a few more shifts out of an already failing transmission. Say, like, you are attempting to get a vehicle with a bum gearbox to the shop for a transmission rebuild. It ought to be noted that these additives only really work, once they work in any respect, in automatic transmissions. If you may have a manual that is slipping or grinding, no amount of magic parts store elixirs goes to repair that.
In case your transmission is positive, or is just acting a bit weird, and also you’re apprehensive about keeping it working accurately, you do not need a transmission additive. Regular maintenance — changing your trans fluid, filter, and pan gasket in accordance with the manufacturer’s advisable maintenance intervals — will make certain your properly functioning transmission stays that way. As I’m sure you’ve got heard me state before, an oz of prevention (maintenance) is price greater than a pound of cure (costly transmission repairs).
This Article First Appeared At www.jalopnik.com
