Additives in manual transmissions: Why are they needed - review of popular brands

As the vehicle is used, the gearbox gradually wears out working parts and components. In this case, extraneous sounds and vibrations often occur due to excessive friction of metal surfaces. Transmission oil is designed to reduce friction forces in the gearbox. The modern car market offers special substances as additives in ATF oil - additives in manual transmissions. When using high-quality antifriction additives, a durable protective film is formed on the rubbing surfaces of gearbox elements.

Functionality of gearbox additives

Increased loads on manual transmission components and parts lead to the following problems:

• incorrect operation of the transmission, in particular the gearbox;
• accelerated wear of metal surfaces,
• the occurrence of hum, noise, vibrations, sudden shocks, oil leaks.

With timely maintenance of a manual transmission, the transmission oil is replaced in a timely manner and special additives are added. Thanks to additives, the service life of the working elements of the gearbox and the entire transmission assembly is significantly increased.

Most often, gearbox additives are used for:

• reducing noise effects;
• improving the performance of the oil pump;
• restoration of surfaces with defects;
• increasing the operational period of the entire transmission;
• improving the smoothness of mode switching;
• reducing efficiency losses when overcoming friction forces;
• reducing the noise level (up to 10 dB) in the gearbox area;
• restoration of elasticity of rubber seals and gaskets.

Additives for manual transmissions are selected in accordance with the chemical composition and technical characteristics of a particular gear oil.

Important: The appearance of extraneous noise in a manual transmission indicates not only increased wear of parts. Often the manual transmission of a new car makes noise during the break-in process. In this case, mutual grinding of the transmission mechanisms occurs. Here it is also useful to use anti-friction additives in manual transmissions to reduce noise.

Is it possible to reduce the noise in the gearbox?

To reduce noise in the gearbox, you need to figure out what the problem is, because if the bearing devices are worn out, the parts must be replaced, like other worn-out transmission elements. Carrying out repairs, from a reliability point of view, is considered the best option. After all, broken elements will be removed, which will lead to more efficient operation of the unit. Often the appearance of hum and noise in the operation of the gearbox is associated with a lack of oil in the system. In case of such a problem, it is necessary to add lubricant to the unit and find out the cause of its leakage. If it is associated with damage to the gearbox, then you need to determine the defective location and repair the gearbox.

Engine gearbox

Is it worth buying additives?

Not so long ago, special additives against noise in engine gearboxes appeared on the domestic market. This option to reduce the noise in the operation of the unit is ideal if the car owner does not want to repair and disassemble the gearbox. Moreover, not everyone can repair the transmission on their own. The use of additives is relevant if the parts and components of the unit are not worn out to a critical condition. If there is a lot of wear on gearbox parts, then fixing the problem is to replace the components. In this case, it is not advisable to add additives.

The use of special means will effectively reduce the noise level in the box, but it must be taken into account that such substances do not act immediately. It will take some time, in some cases it is necessary to drive at least 300 kilometers by car to achieve the result. Also, the use of additives makes it possible to soften the operation of the unit as a whole, making it easier for the driver to switch the gear selector to different modes. In practice, the complete disappearance of noise occurs on average after the car has traveled about 500 km.

The best gearbox additives

Manual transmissions are among the most complex car components. To repair worn components and parts and restore the functionality of the box, you will need to spend a lot of time and material resources. The gearbox additive is poured into the oil as a special agent that extends the service life of the mechanism.

List of the best additives in manual transmission:

• Liqui Moly.
• RVS Master (TR3, TR5).
• Suprotek.
• XADO.
• 1Stage Transmission.
• MosTwo Ultra.
• Getriebeoil-Additive.

"Suprotek - Automatic Transmission"

Judging by the reviews, gearbox additives from this brand can literally rid the transmission of all ailments. After its application, a metallized layer is formed that protects worn parts and restores their geometric parameters. In transmission oil, this product creates conditions under which a metal protective layer will not form on the rubbing surfaces. It is he who is responsible for partially restoring the dimensions and geometry of worn parts. The use of "Suprotek - Automatic Transmission" contributes to:

• facilitating gear shifting by optimizing the gaps in the oil filter;
• reduction of hum and vibration;
• increasing mileage;
• protecting the gearbox from wear due to the formation of a layer on the friction surfaces.

In any case, “Suprotek - Automatic Transmission” is a means by which you can protect the automatic transmission from various influences and extend its service life. According to reviews, the product is good, but the algorithm for pouring it into the gearbox is too complex in accordance with the type of gearbox and mileage of the car.

Additive for manual transmission Liqui Moly

A product of the German auto chemical industry, the Liqui Moly manual transmission additive has received wide recognition among numerous car enthusiasts. Thanks to a unique chemical composition, the metal surfaces of the gearbox are covered with a protective film, which minimizes the friction forces between the mating elements.

Main components of Liqui Moly:

• molybdenum disulfide;
• copper;
• zinc.

Under the influence of additives, the smallest defects on the surfaces of working parts (microcracks, chips, cavities, etc.) are eliminated.

As a result of using the Liqui Moly gearbox additive, the following positive changes have been noted:

1. Improved transmission performance.
2. Smooth transition to the selected gear.
3. Reducing the friction forces between parts and the operating temperature of the transmission fluid.

Recommendations for using Liqui Moly:

1. This product is best used for worn gearboxes that show clear signs of long-term use.
2. The additive must be poured into the crankcase during a partial or complete oil change.
3. After a long run of more than 100 thousand km.

Interesting: According to drivers, the additive from Liqui Moly has an immediate effect on the operation of a manual transmission without side effects. The transmission noise additive dramatically reduces the sound effects of the gearbox.

What supplements are best not to use?

Not all products that you find on sale effectively remove noise and improve the performance of the transmission unit. Some additives cause serious damage to the gearbox. According to many manufacturers, the presence of detergent additives and stabilizers in the liquid makes it possible to increase the intervals between lubricant changes. But that's not true. When a lubricant is used for a long time, the consumable material changes its characteristics and properties, as a result of which the effectiveness of the substance against friction decreases. In fact, the maximum increase in service life is possible by two thousand kilometers, regardless of the type of product and its composition.

According to experts, car owners should refuse to purchase additives that contain high-tech additives and can increase the service life of the transmission by 300-500%. The bottom line is that ordinary substances based on molybdenum disulfide are usually sold under the guise of technological products. Their high percentage content causes a complete change in the composition of the lubricant, since it already contains anti-wear additives in sufficient quantities. It is impossible to say with certainty about the consequences that such mixing will lead to. But this usually leads to the destruction of the polymer components, as well as the valve block. This problem leads to the need to repair the unit.

No less harmful to transmissions are additives whose manufacturers promise to quickly stop oil leaks, regardless of the size of the damage. The principle of operation of such products is similar to the work of sealed adhesive for the cooling system, although the composition of such substances is different. After using the additive, a coating forms on the internal components of the gearbox, which cannot be removed without intervention in the operation of the unit. Even if the leak stops for some time, it will appear again after 1 thousand kilometers on average. Therefore, gearbox repair is guaranteed.

The channel in Sandro's garage published a video, the author of which tried to get rid of the noise of the input shaft bearing using a transmission additive.

Additives brand RVS-MASTER TR3 and TR5

The antifriction additives of the RVS-MASTER group include silicate compounds that form a unique protective layer of metal-ceramics on the surfaces of gearbox parts. Thanks to the influence of TR5 and TR3 materials, the operation of the manual transmission is improved:

• destructive processes in the gearbox elements slow down and completely stop;
• wear of working parts and components is reduced;
• minor defects on metal surfaces are eliminated;
• the configuration of the gear teeth is restored (involute geometry);
• the vibration level of the box is reduced;
• noise effects;
• the service life of the manual transmission increases significantly;
• the possibility of possible gearbox breakdowns is prevented;
• gear shifting becomes more distinct and easier;
• it becomes possible to operate the vehicle in extreme conditions (aggressive driving, increased loads, off-road, etc.).

Important: If additives based on molybdenum, Teflon, etc. were previously poured into the gearbox, it is necessary to change the oil and then thoroughly rinse the gearbox to remove any remnants of the previous antifriction material.

The procedure for applying the RVS-MASTER additive to the gearbox:

1. Mix the contents of the bottle vigorously (shake the additive).
2. Fill the syringe with RVS-MASTER liquid.
3. Introduce the additive into the gearbox housing through the filler neck.
4. If the substance does not fit into the syringe in full, repeat the operation.
5. Screw on the hole cap.
6. Start the engine, start driving.

Advice: After introducing the additive into the manual transmission, during the first hour you need to engage each gear and perform engine braking in all modes (imitation of driving in urban conditions)

How do additives affect

To understand exactly how additives eliminate knocks and noise, it is necessary to analyze their effect on the gearbox and the car as a whole. After using the lubricant:

• the operation of the checkpoint is stabilized;
• wear is reduced and the duration of its use increases;
• The gearbox operates in quiet mode without any extraneous sounds.

Note that after using lubricant additives, the performance of the manual transmission improves. However, before using an additive to fill an automatic transmission, you must consult with auto mechanics at a service station.

This is due to the fact that in some situations the additives have virtually no effect and do not affect the operation of the box.

Lubricants are also used for worn-out mechanisms of the transmission system. They allow you to improve the operation of mechanisms, prolong their operation and increase comfort when driving a manual transmission.

Description of additive for manual transmission SUPROTEC

Suprotek Corporation defines its products as an “intelligent additive.” The active material includes complex modern components in certain combinations. The proprietary antifriction additive combines perfectly with lubricants of various compositions and promotes the formation of a polymer film on the metal surfaces of gearbox components and parts. The resulting film increases the area of ​​the contact spot and reduces the friction forces between the mating surfaces of the working elements of the manual transmission.

Types of additives for gearboxes

Depressant

Additives are used to reduce the environmental impact on gear oil and improve its performance characteristics.

Anti-scuff

additives reduce friction of parts and increase their wear resistance. They can be added at any stage of oil operation.

Anti-corrosion

additives reduce the influence of negative factors on metal elements and slow down oil oxidation processes.

Sealing

additives are added in cases of oil leakage through the seals. They fill microcracks in seals and restore their elasticity.

Cleansing

Additives are used two to three days before the scheduled oil change. They clean the mechanism from soot and scale.

Revitalizers

added when noise is already heard from the gearbox. They eliminate extraneous sounds by filling cracks in parts. Such additives are not recommended for wear prevention purposes, as has been proven by numerous tests. These materials are designed for emergency use.

XADO additive for manual transmission

Gel-like antifriction additives, produced by the Kharkov company together with the Dutch engineering group, enjoy well-deserved trust among numerous buyers. Thanks to the beneficial effects of additives, the original configuration and dimensions of the working elements of manual transmissions are restored. The main difference between XADO additives and numerous analogues is the unique chemical composition of the active substance (they include: ceramics in a liquid state plus silicon molecules).

Microcracks that form on the metal surfaces of gearbox components and parts are quickly filled with a super-strong metal-ceramic substance (microhardness coefficient is 750 kg/mm2), and ideal alignment occurs in places where roughness appears. Even after long-term use of the vehicle, when many gearbox parts have lost their original appearance, XADO additive material is able to restore their shape and previous technical characteristics.

Interesting: The company has developed a modern product called revitalizant XADO 1Stage. This is a gel specially designed to restore and improve the functioning of internal combustion engines, regardless of the type of power unit: gasoline, diesel, gas-powered.

The main advantages when using XADO antifriction additives:

1. Effective elimination of irregularities, potholes, chips, deep scratches on the metal surfaces of transmission elements due to the formation of a unique metal-ceramic protective film.
2. Significant reduction in the level of noise effects of a working gearbox (more than ten times).
3. Optimal functioning of manual transmission synchronizing clutches.
4. Increased efficiency (low fuel consumption in all-wheel drive vehicles).
5. Neat, smooth manual transmission gear shifting.
6. Effective removal of elevated temperature from the area of ​​increased friction.
7. A sharp reduction in vibrations and vibrations of the gearbox.
8. Further operation of the machine with obvious transmission fluid leaks.
9. Resistance of gearbox mechanisms against the harmful effects of corrosion.

The most popular additive compounds

There are several additives that may be of interest to Russian car owners. The compositions are produced by reliable manufacturers and are quality products.

Additive name	Characteristic
RVS Master	The product contains silicates, which form a thin ceramic layer on the parts. This helps prevent wear and eliminate defects. Universal additives help reduce fuel consumption.
XADO — Stage Transmission and Revitalizant	The substances are suitable for all types of transmissions. The product is based on liquid ceramics with the addition of boron nitrite. Recommended for use in extreme situations.
MosTwo Ultra	Russian brand. The additive is universal and suitable for any gearbox. Helps reduce friction and extend the life of the unit. Almost completely eliminates vibration.
Getriebeoil-Additive

From Liqui Molly

Despite the many positive characteristics, it is important to use each supplement according to the instructions. Only then can a good result be achieved. Product prices vary. On the market you can find formulations for 400-700 rubles for a volume of 250-300 ml, but this is not the maximum price tag.

Revitalizant MosTwo Ultra for manual transmission

The domestically produced MosTwo additive effectively reduces the noise intensity in a vehicle's gearbox. This antifriction additive is in great demand among buyers due to its high efficiency and beneficial properties:

• the formation of a durable protective layer on metal surfaces, which has
• reduced friction coefficient;
• reduction of friction forces between mutually contacting parts and components in the gearbox;
• elimination of surface defects;
• restoration of the configuration of transmission elements;
• reducing the force of pressing on the gearbox lever when changing to the next gear;
• reduction of noise and vibrations in the cabin from the side of the manual transmission;
• increase in the service life of the gearbox by almost five times;
• improving the performance indicators of manual transmission operating elements;
• the ability to fill the additive into the gearbox housing with transmission oils from various manufacturers (high versatility of the material);
• ensuring further operation of the manual transmission at maximum loads on the vehicle’s power unit.

User reviews

Let's take a look at some comments from car owners who have already added additives to their oil. Reviews taken from the Internet.

Timofey, 33 years old

I've been a fan of Liqui Molly for a long time. German quality is a guarantee of the desired result. I used additives for manual transmission. They turned out to be very effective. A little expensive, but the main thing is a positive result.

Sergey Petrovich, 66 years old

The store offered to buy XADO additives. At first I refused, but then I read the abilities and decided to buy it. I didn't make a mistake. The quality is excellent. There is no noise and vibration in the gearbox. They used to be very annoying, but now there are no problems.

Alexander, 26 years old

I inherited a car – also a Soviet “six”. The transmission was noisy and there was a grinding noise. I didn’t want to take it apart, so I filled it with EX 120. Now everything is much better. It’s worth saying that the effect did not come immediately, so don’t be nervous, just wait.

Getriebeoil-Additiv additive from Liqui Moly

Similar to numerous additives produced by Liqui Moly, the basis of this product is a chemical compound called molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). Getriebeoil-Additiv additive is specially developed for use in manual gearboxes and differential mechanisms.

The main advantages of molybdenum additive:

• Reduced wear on moving gearbox elements;
• Effective removal of elevated temperature from the area of ​​increased friction.
• Ensuring smooth gear shifting.
• Smooth, quiet operation of the manual transmission.
• The box body heats up less during vehicle operation.

Interesting: If you add Getriebeoil-Additiv to the differential or manual transmission of a worn-out car, the gear tooth profiles are restored. The reliability and efficiency of manual transmissions are significantly improved. Transmission modes switch most clearly and smoothly.

Rules for the use of Getriebeoil-Additiv additives:

• the additive is intended for filling into axles and mechanical gearboxes that operate under extremely high loads and temperatures;
• It is not recommended to put automatic transmissions, robots, or CVTs into boxes;
• Packaging form: 20 mg tube
• the required amount of additive is calculated depending on the operating conditions of the vehicle; most often, one package per 1–2 liters of transmission fluid is sufficient.
• A noticeable effect from the use of this additive occurs after approximately 100–150 km of travel.

Total

additives for gearboxes Additives for gearboxes are aimed at restoring and preventing wear of contact surfaces by creating a thin film of high hardness. It is not recommended to pour high-quality additives into gearboxes just to reduce noise: the composition is considered as a means for restoring naturally worn surfaces. By bringing the actual geometry of the contact layer closer to the base one, the same acoustic comfort will be achieved.

The companies XADO and Liqui Moly produce a wide range of premium additives. More affordable and versatile - Nanoprotec, Suprotec, Hi-Gear.

The best gear oil manufacturers

Transmission oils are produced by various factories. The Lada Grant manual transmission at AvtoVAZ is filled with Lukoil and Tatneft Translux; for automatic transmissions, the plant recommends choosing Genuine EJ-1 ATF or NISSAN ATF Matic-S. But on the market there are quality products from other brands that are suitable in terms of characteristics and properties.

Lukoil.

A universal oil that is filled at some car factories, and until 2012 it was filled at the AvtoVAZ plant. Excellent characteristics, wide temperature range and affordable price make the brand’s products universal.

Rosneft

. The products recommended by AvtoVAZ for manual transmissions fully comply with the requirements for oil. And the affordable price is especially relevant for owners of budget Lada Granta cars.

Elf.

French oils of this brand retain their properties for a long time. An ideal option for those who do not plan to update their transmission oil frequently.

TOTAL.

French-made products balanced in price and quality. Widely distributed among foreign automakers and fits perfectly with the modern Grant.

ZIC.

Affordable oils demonstrate high quality. The lubricating fluid is made on the basis of its own oils and is characterized by high adhesion to box parts.

NISSAN.

Expensive, but high-quality products recommended by AvtoVAZ for Lada Granta automatic transmissions. Manufactured under strict quality control and ensures flawless operation of the transmission.

The best transmission oils for Lada Granta with automatic transmission

The manufacturer recommends filling the automatic transmission with 5.4 liters of working fluid. However, in practice it is difficult to accommodate such a volume, since it is impossible to completely drain the waste liquid without disassembling the box. A partial replacement requires about 3 liters of fluid.

The manufacturer of Jatco gearboxes, which are installed on the Lada Granta, says that at a mileage of 80-85 thousand km a complete replacement is already required, and it is better to carry out a partial replacement every 30-40 thousand km. Although there is no replacement regulation as such - the oil is in the box of the car, which the plant writes about in the operating manuals. The Lada Granta requires transmission fluid with the ATF Dexron VI standard, which all participants in the category comply with. Also, all products presented are synthetic oils.

Claimed properties

The functional purpose of special additives for transmission oil is varied, but many of them solve the following problems:

• restoration of contacting surfaces;
• protection and strengthening of contacting parts;
• optimization of the geometry of contact pads in gearing;
• creation of normal conditions for the functioning of synchronizers.

Thanks to all this, motorists using gearbox additives receive the following consumer characteristics:

• the unit operates less noisily;
• vibrations disappear;
• gear shifting is softened;
• clarity improves when shifting the gearshift knob;
• the service life of the gearbox increases and the reliability of the unit as a whole increases.

All of these listed properties are complemented by other advantages, including reduced fuel consumption and simplified engine starting.

Leaders among additives for automatic transmissions

Now to the question of which additive is better to fill if the car has an automatic transmission.

The choice is huge. The current range on the Russian market offers a wide variety of additives. Yes, not all of them are high quality and effective. There are those that are expensive, but work no better than representatives of the average price category. And there is no point in spending money on them. You can take an affordable and no less effective analogue.

The motorist himself will decide which additive will be better and more correct for him to pour into his automatic transmission. It all depends on the condition of the box, problems that have arisen, or on the desire to engage in troubleshooting.

The current rating will be presented below. And you will already determine which additive is preferable to pour into the automatic transmission.

Liqui Moly ATF Additive

Many motorists and specialized experts believe that this is the best additive available on the Russian market for automatic transmissions. It's hard to disagree. The product has proven its high effectiveness in practice.