You may not be familiar with the concepts involved in mechanical engineering, and truth be told, you might not understand how your car's automatic transmission works. Still, it's easy to imagine how much stress these components may be under during an average drive and to picture how much friction and heat may build up inside. But did you know that you can actually give the automatic transmission a helping hand by including a certain additive in your next service visit? What is this additive and how does it work?
Under Pressure
Car manufacturers have designed their transmission systems to be as reliable as possible, bearing in mind the wear and tear that they need to deal with. The individual cogs, bearings, carriers, clutches and gears are all quite hardy, but they would not be able to last very long if it were not for the transmission fluid. This fluid will capture and carry any foreign particles to the filter to stop them from causing any internal failure, and while the fluid itself is first class, it's a good idea to add what is known as a friction modifier.
Modified Friction
This type of product is able to work in different ways according to the particular environment. It can reduce the amount of friction when the transmission is under load to help protect the bearings and gears, but it can increase the level of friction in other situations.
Within the torque converter are several different clutch mechanisms that will engage and disengage as the vehicle changes gears. Yet in order for them to mesh properly, a certain amount of friction is necessary, and the transmission fluid can provide assistance in this area. However, some of those parts are either fully on or fully off, and when they are not called into action, the friction modifier needs to help deal with other friction forces in those circumstances.
Other Benefits
You may also be able to extend the life of your transmission system by adding a friction modifier. These products have extra additives that are designed to inhibit corrosion or to provide additional protection when the engine is idling.
Taking Action
When you take the vehicle in for your next service, ask your mechanic about a friction modifier. If they add this to your transmission fluid, it may help to extend the life of these complicated parts and make your motoring less stressful.
