Vehicle Applications

2015–present Hyundai Sonata (2.0T/2.4L), 2015–present Kia Optima (2.0T), 2016–present Hyundai Tucson (1.6T AWD), 2017–present Kia Sportage (2.0L AWD), 2017–present Hyundai Santa Fe 5 (FWD/AWD)

Technical Specifications

Configuration	8-speed automatic FWD/AWD transaxle
Gear Ratios	1st 4.71:1 · 2nd 3.14:1 · 3rd 2.11:1 · 4th 1.67:1 · 5th 1.29:1 · 6th 1.00:1 · 7th 0.84:1 · 8th 0.67:1 · Rev 3.40:1
Fluid Type	Hyundai/Kia SP-IV-M ATF
Fluid Capacity	8.5 qts total, 4.0 qts service refill

Top 3 Failure Points

1

Early Shift Quality (Software)

2015–2017 A8TR1 units had shift quality complaints addressed by Hyundai/Kia TCM software updates. Check for applicable TSBs before mechanical diagnosis.

Symptoms: Abrupt 1-2 or 2-3 shifts, gear hunting at cruise, hesitation when downshifting — verify TSBs first

2

Solenoid Body Wear

Solenoid body wear develops on high-mileage A8TR1 units, causing erratic 8-speed shift behavior.

Symptoms: DTC codes across P0750 range, harsh or erratic shifts, MIL on

3

TCC Shudder (Turbo Applications)

TCC shudder develops in 2.0T turbocharged Sonata and Optima applications from ATF heat degradation.

Symptoms: Vibration at 40–60 mph, DTC P0740

Rebuild Process

A8TR1 rebuild replaces solenoid body, all clutch packs, torque converter, and all seals. TCM updated to latest calibration. SP-IV-M ATF used.

What's Replaced in Every Rebuild

Solenoid body assembly
All clutch packs (8-speed)
Torque converter with upgraded TCC
All seals and O-rings
TCM calibration update

Maintenance Tips

SP-IV-M ATF every 30,000 miles. Check for Hyundai/Kia TSBs for shift quality issues before authorizing mechanical repairs — many early complaints are software-resolved.

FAQ

Common Questions About the A8TR1

Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Tucson AWD, Sportage AWD, and Santa Fe from 2015 to present with 8-speed automatic.

Check for Hyundai TSBs first — 2015–2017 A8TR1 units had software-related shift quality issues addressed with free TCM updates.

A full rebuild ranges $2,000–$2,600 at Chicago Transmission.

Hyundai/Kia SP-IV-M ATF for FWD/AWD transaxle applications.

Yes — the A8TR1 is generally reliable with SP-IV-M fluid every 30,000 miles.

Transmission Parts And Components — Chicago Transmission | Chicago IL — Transmission components laid out for rebuild and inspection — we stock parts for all makes and models.

Car On Lift For Transmission Service — Chicago Transmission | Chicago IL — A customer vehicle raised on our lift for thorough transmission inspection at Chicago Transmission.

ASE Certified Transmission Mechanic — Chicago Transmission | Chicago IL — Our ASE-certified technicians bring decades of hands-on transmission experience to every job.

A8TR1 Transmission Repair & Rebuild — Chicago