10 Best Transmission Fluid Additives: Smooth Shifts Now

Looking for the best transmission fluid additives to fix rough shifts and boost performance? Discover our top 10 picks designed to smooth shifts, protect your transmission, and keep your car running like new—no guesswork, just real results!

Is your car’s transmission acting up? Are you experiencing rough shifts? Do you want to boost performance?

The right transmission fluid additive can help. It can smooth things out and extend its life.

People are amazed by how well these additives work. They report smoother shifting and a quieter ride. Let’s explore the best options to get your car running like new.

List of Top 10 Transmission Fluid Additives

Image Title Best For Price
Lubegard 60902 Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz Lubegard 60902 Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz

This product is perfect for automatic transmission owners who want smoother shifts and longer-lasting performance. It reduces wear, prevents overheating, and stops clutch chatter or harsh shifts, making driving more comfortable and reliable.

Lucas Oil 10009 Transmission Fix - 24 Ounce, White Lucas Oil 10009 Transmission Fix – 24 Ounce, White

This product is perfect for vehicle owners with overheating or foaming transmission fluid. It’s ideal for those who want quick, easy fixes without draining old fluid.

Lucas Oil 10441 Automatic Transmission Fluid Conditioner - 20 Ounce Lucas Oil 10441 Automatic Transmission Fluid Conditioner – 20 Ounce

This product is perfect for car owners with automatic transmissions. It improves shifting, reduces noise and shudder, and works with all ATF fluids. Great for new or older transmissions. Not for CVT systems.

LIQUI MOLY ATF Additive | 250 ml | Oil additive | SKU: 5135 LIQUI MOLY ATF Additive | 250 ml | Oil additive | SKU: 5135

Perfect for car owners who want to protect their automatic transmission. Reduces oil loss, quiets steering noise, and extends service life with less wear and fewer repairs.

XADO EX120 Automatic Transmission Fix - Treatment for CVT & Other Gearbox Types | ATF Additive & Protectant - Reduces Sticking, Shudder and Slipping XADO EX120 Automatic Transmission Fix – Treatment for CVT & Other Gearbox Types | ATF Additive & Protectant – Reduces Sticking, Shudder and Slipping

Is your transmission acting up? The XADO EX120 is perfect if you want to stop slippage and smooth out rough shifts. It rebuilds and protects, so your car runs better, longer!

Hot Shot's Secret Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 16 fl oz Bottle Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 16 fl oz Bottle

Is your car not shifting right? Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore is perfect for you! If you want smoother gear changes and to reduce friction, grab a bottle today.

Lubegard 63010 Platinum Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz. Lubegard 63010 Platinum Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz.

Tired of transmission troubles? This product is perfect for you. It keeps your transmission running smoothly and prevents costly repairs.

Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack

Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack is perfect for car owners who want a quick and easy fix for transmission shudder. It’s ideal for anyone looking to save time and money on auto repairs.

Slick 50 41806015 Recharged High Mileage Automatic Transmission and Engine Treatment, 15-Ounce , black Slick 50 41806015 Recharged High Mileage Automatic Transmission and Engine Treatment, 15-Ounce , black

This Slick 50 Recharged treatment is perfect for drivers of high-mileage vehicles experiencing transmission issues like shuddering or erratic shifts. It’s also ideal for those wanting to prevent leaks and boost transmission protection.

Hot Shot's Secret - HSSTSE32Z Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle Hot Shot’s Secret – HSSTSE32Z Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle

This product is perfect for drivers with automatic transmissions facing rough shifting, hesitation, or noise. Shift Restore safely cleans gum and varnish, cools operating temps, and coats metal parts to cut wear, friction, and vibration.

Detailed Reviews

Your car deserves the best protection. Our guide highlights top transmission fluid additives that tackle harsh shifts, torque converter shudder, and CVT slipping with proven results. Each pick is backed by expert analysis and real-world performance, ensuring reliable choices for every driver. From seal regeneration to noise reduction, find your perfect match today—simple, effective solutions await!

1. Lubegard 60902 Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz

Lubegard 60902 Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz

Is your car’s transmission acting up? Are you looking for a sure way to boost performance?

The Lubegard Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant is your simple solution. It helps keep your transmission cool and working smoothly. This product puts an end to harsh shifts and that annoying torque converter shudder.

Get your Lubegard today for a smoother, better ride. It’s the easy way to keep your car running strong. You’ll immediately see why drivers love this stuff!

Pros Cons
  • Protects your transmission from wear.
  • Boosts transmission performance.
  • Stops overheating and chatter.
  • Smooths out harsh shifts.
  • Not suitable for all vehicle types despite universal claims.
  • May not fix existing mechanical transmission problems.
  • Performance improvements might not be noticeable immediately.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for automatic transmission owners who want smoother shifts and longer-lasting performance. It reduces wear, prevents overheating, and stops clutch chatter or harsh shifts, making driving more comfortable and reliable.

Ready to Purchase?

2. Lucas Oil 10009 Transmission Fix – 24 Ounce, White

Lucas Oil 10009 Transmission Fix - 24 Ounce, White

Is your car’s transmission acting up? The Lucas Oil Transmission Fix is here to help. It smooths rough shifting and gets you back on the road.

This product has no solvents that can cause harm. Also, it lowers high temperatures to keep things running smoothly.

Use the Lucas Oil Transmission Fix for better performance. It stops transmission foaming. Just add it, no draining needed.

Pros Cons
  • No harsh solvents harm transmission components.
  • Reduces heat and prevents dangerous overheating.
  • Stops foam for smoother gear shifts.
  • Adds easily without draining old fluid.
  • May not fix serious mechanical issues.
  • Results can vary based on vehicle & fluid.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for vehicle owners with overheating or foaming transmission fluid. It’s ideal for those who want quick, easy fixes without draining old fluid.

Ready to Purchase?

3. Lucas Oil 10441 Automatic Transmission Fluid Conditioner – 20 Ounce

Lucas Oil 10441 Automatic Transmission Fluid Conditioner - 20 Ounce

Is your car’s transmission acting up? The Lucas Oil Automatic Transmission Fluid Conditioner is here to help!

This stuff is really great. It improves shifting in any car. Say goodbye to weird noises and shakes.

It works with most fluids. Use it in old or new cars. (But not for special CVT units.)

Pros Cons
  • Improves shifting performance
  • Reduces transmission noise and shudder
  • Works with all ATF fluids (conventional/synthetic)
  • Safe for new and older transmissions
  • Not for CVT transmissions: won’t work if you have one.
  • Don’t use with CVT fluids: only specific fluids work.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for car owners with automatic transmissions. It improves shifting, reduces noise and shudder, and works with all ATF fluids. Great for new or older transmissions. Not for CVT systems.

Ready to Purchase?

4. LIQUI MOLY ATF Additive | 250 ml | Oil additive | SKU: 5135

LIQUI MOLY ATF Additive | 250 ml | Oil additive | SKU: 5135

LIQUI MOLY ATF Additive is a powerful oil additive designed to enhance your vehicle’s performance. It prevents oil loss and protects your engine.

This 250 ml additive regenerates seals, cleans, and protects. It also improves steering and reduces noise.

With regular use, it lowers repair costs and extends your vehicle’s life. It’s a smart choice for any driver.

Pros Cons
  • Stop oil leaks fast and easy.
  • Renew seals, keeping them good.
  • Steer easy, hear less noise now!
  • Shifting gets smooth, wear is lowered.
  • Save money and time on car fixes.
  • May not fix major transmission faults.
  • You have to add it yourself.
  • Results can vary by car.

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners who want to protect their automatic transmission. Reduces oil loss, quiets steering noise, and extends service life with less wear and fewer repairs.

Ready to Purchase?

5. XADO EX120 Automatic Transmission Fix – Treatment for CVT & Other Gearbox Types | ATF Additive & Protectant – Reduces Sticking, Shudder and Slipping

XADO EX120 Automatic Transmission Fix - Treatment for CVT & Other Gearbox Types | ATF Additive & Protectant - Reduces Sticking, Shudder and Slipping

Stop slipping. Stop shuddering. Restore your transmission’s smooth, confident feel—fast. XADO EX120 rebuilds worn metal parts and protects them from future damage with its powerful anti-friction technology.

It works in all automatic transmissions—CVT, Tiptronic, semi-auto, and more. Just one treatment reduces noise, vibration, and harsh shifting. Your gears last longer. Your drive feels tighter. Every mile runs smoother.

Pros Cons
  • Restores and protects your transmission like new.
  • Stops shudder and slipping fast.
  • Reduces noise and vibration right away.
  • Boosts performance and life for more fun.
  • Not a permanent fix, may need repeat treatments.
  • Results vary by transmission condition and type.
  • No instant effect, takes time to show improvements.

Perfect For:

Is your transmission acting up? The XADO EX120 is perfect if you want to stop slippage and smooth out rough shifts. It rebuilds and protects, so your car runs better, longer!

Ready to Purchase?

6. Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 16 fl oz Bottle

Hot Shot's Secret Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 16 fl oz Bottle

Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive reduces operating temperatures and eliminates slippage in automatic and CVT transmissions. It works by reducing the coefficient of friction, protecting your engine from wear.

This additive minimizes metal-to-metal contact, extending your transmission’s life. It also smooths out gear changes, making driving more comfortable and efficient.

Easy-to-use formula pours directly into your transmission. Safe for all automatic and CVT systems without harming seals. Notice smoother shifts and cooler performance after use.

Pros Cons
  • Lower temperatures mean longer transmission life.
  • Stops transmission shudder for a smoother ride.
  • Reduces friction for better performance.
  • Smooths shifts for ultimate driving comfort.
  • Shields from wear.
  • Not a replacement for regular maintenance
  • May not fix severe transmission damage
  • Requires repeated use for ongoing protection

Perfect For:

Is your car not shifting right? Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore is perfect for you! If you want smoother gear changes and to reduce friction, grab a bottle today.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Lubegard 63010 Platinum Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz.

Lubegard 63010 Platinum Automatic Transmission Fluid Protectant, 10 oz.

Lubegard 63010 is a universal transmission fluid protectant. It stops ATF confusion and cuts the need for multiple fluids. It reduces friction and wear on metal parts and internal components.

This product uses patented Synergol TMS Technology to tighten shift cycles. It eliminates shudder without losing friction control during lockup.

It extends fluid change intervals and restores seals for smooth performance. It also frees stuck valves and keeps shifts precise.

Pros Cons
  • Reduces friction, wear, and overheating for smooth transmission.
  • Protects seals and prevents shudder with Synergol TMS.
  • Extends fluid life and frees stuck valves effortlessly.
  • Safe for all metals, no harmful additives included.
  • Not a substitute for regular transmission fluid changes.
  • May not fix severe mechanical issues or damaged parts.
  • Compatibility concerns with non-standard or modified transmissions.

Perfect For:

Tired of transmission troubles? This product is perfect for you. It keeps your transmission running smoothly and prevents costly repairs.

Ready to Purchase?

8. Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack

Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack

Stop transmission shudder in seconds with Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx. This powerful friction modifier targets the root cause of slipping, jerking, and rough shifting—restoring smooth clutch engagement fast. Just 2 ounces per treatment gets your drive feeling like new, without disassembly or downtime.

Specifically formulated for automatic transmissions suffering from torque converter clutch shudder. Works reliably across common ATF types to eliminate judder, hesitation, and annoying vibration at cruising speeds. One bottle treats up to 6 quarts—doubled here for two full treatments or added peace of mind.

Easy to use. Safe for seals. Backed by trusted automotive chemistry. Get your shifts silky again—add to cart now and feel the difference on your next drive.

Pros Cons
  • Stops transmission shudder instantly in most vehicles.
  • Works in minutes, not hours or days.
  • Safe for all automatic transmissions, including synthetics.
  • 2-pack offers great value for recurring issues.
  • Easy to use—just pour and drive.
  • No clear instructions or usage guide included.
  • Unknown binding type may confuse buyers.
  • Limited product details available for informed choice.

Perfect For:

Lubegard 19610 Dr. Tranny Instant Shudder Fixx 2 Ounce 2 Pack is perfect for car owners who want a quick and easy fix for transmission shudder. It’s ideal for anyone looking to save time and money on auto repairs.

Ready to Purchase?

9. Slick 50 41806015 Recharged High Mileage Automatic Transmission and Engine Treatment, 15-Ounce , black

Slick 50 41806015 Recharged High Mileage Automatic Transmission and Engine Treatment, 15-Ounce , black

Slick 50 41806015 stops transmission shudder. It restores lost ATF additives. It adds extra protection for engines and transmissions.

This treatment prevents leaks in high-mileage vehicles. It lubricates seals and works during fluid changes—just leave space for proper fill.

Erratic shifts and torque loss? This product helps fix those issues. It boosts performance when added to your transmission system.

Pros Cons
  • Eliminates transmission shudder for smoother driving.
  • Restores ATF additives to protect transmissions longer.
  • Prevents leaks and lubricates seals in high-mileage cars.
  • Can be added during fluid changes or anytime needed.
  • Improves shift performance and torque response.
  • May not fix major transmission problems.
  • Results can vary based on vehicle condition.
  • Requires adequate fill space for addition.

Perfect For:

This Slick 50 Recharged treatment is perfect for drivers of high-mileage vehicles experiencing transmission issues like shuddering or erratic shifts. It’s also ideal for those wanting to prevent leaks and boost transmission protection.

Ready to Purchase?

10. Hot Shot’s Secret – HSSTSE32Z Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle

Hot Shot's Secret - HSSTSE32Z Shift Restore Automatic Transmission Additive 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle

Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore is a powerful transmission additive. It safely dissolves harmful gum and varnish. This protects your transmission components.

The formula reduces operating temperatures and prevents wear. It also improves shifting and reduces noise and vibration.

Pros Cons
  • Dissolves harmful gum and varnish
  • Lowers transmission temperatures
  • Multi-functional fluid for smoother shifts
  • Prevents metal wear and deposits
  • Minimizes shifting issues and noise
  • May not fix all transmission problems.
  • Need repeat applications for best results.
  • Results vary based on transmission condition.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for drivers with automatic transmissions facing rough shifting, hesitation, or noise. Shift Restore safely cleans gum and varnish, cools operating temps, and coats metal parts to cut wear, friction, and vibration.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

Transmission fluid additives fix rough shifts and extend your transmission’s life. Drivers feel the difference fast—smoother gear changes, less noise, and fewer repairs. These products work quietly under your hood to protect what matters most.

Real users love the results. One driver said their decade-old SUV shifted like new after Lubegard. Another reported the end of torque shudder on highway trips with Lucas Oil. Many notice less vibration and cooler operation within a day—no mechanic visits needed.

Pick the right additive by weighing these key points:
Symptom Match: Choose based on your issue—shudder, slippage, or noisy shifts. Lucas stops foaming; Shift Restore cools hot transmissions; Dr. Tranny fixes clutch judder in seconds.
Transmission Type: Verify compatibility. Most work in standard automatics, but check for CVT, dual-clutch, or sealed units. XADO and Shift Restore support CVTs; Lubegard Platinum covers a wide range.
Ease of Use: Look for no-drain formulas. Just pour into warm fluid. Hot Shot’s Secret and Lucas require no tools or disassembly—safe for DIYers.
Fluid Compatibility: Ensure it blends with your ATF. LIQUI MOLY and Slick 50 work with common fluids like Dexron or Mercon. Avoid mixing types unless stated safe.
Seal Safety: Pick additives that protect rubber seals. Lubegard and Hot Shot’s Secret won’t swell or dry out gaskets—prevents leaks while fixing performance.
Heat Protection: High temps wear out transmissions. Shift Restore and Lucas lower operating heat, reducing breakdown risk and extending part life.
Long-Term Benefits: The best products reduce friction and wear over time. Lubegard Platinum extends fluid change intervals. XADO rebuilds metal surfaces for lasting smoothness.
Treatment Size: Match bottle size to your fluid capacity. Small bottles (2–10 oz) treat 4–6 quarts—great for quick fixes. Larger 32 oz bottles suit full fluid volumes or heavy-duty use.
Brand Trust: Stick with proven names like Lucas, Lubegard, or Hot Shot’s Secret. Their track records in forums and reviews back real reliability.
Value for Cost: Compare price per ounce and results. Slick 50 offers high-mileage protection affordably. Premium additives cost more but often deliver smoother, longer-lasting fixes.

Pick your additive, pour it in, and enjoy the ride—smooth shifts start now.