Bad Torque Converter Symptoms

Accurately diagnosing symptoms of a bad torque converter can be difficult, but we’re to help by identifying six common issues.

Common Torque Converter Problems

Torque converters are situated right between your car’s transmission and engine. This device is crucial since it transfers the engine’s power directly to the transmission. Always be mindful of potential issues with these converters. Watch and listen for these problems.

Overheating

If your vehicle’s temperature gauge indicates overheating by flashing a transmission control unit light on your dashboard, this is a sign of a bad or failing torque converter. Additional reasons why this signal could be triggered include a decline in fluid pressure or even a malfunctioning solenoid. Overheating is bad for your car because it can wear out internal components of the transmission. The converter will then fail to carry out its function of transferring power from engine to transmission.

Slipping

A torque converter may slip out of gear or experience a shift delay if its bearing is damaged. Excessive or inadequate fluid in the transmission will cause gears to perform erratically. One key sign to identify slipping is when your vehicle’s loses acceleration and experiences a reduction in fuel economy.

Shuddering

You’ll know your car is shuddering when driving along a smooth road feels like a rocky and curvy adventure. This is a clear sign that there is an issue with the lockup clutch that’s located with the converter. The ineffective lockup clutch will make it difficult to drive smoothly.

Transmission Fluid Is Contaminated

Automatic transmission fluid fills the torque converter. However, if the fluid gets contaminated with debris or grime, it can damage the transmission. Prevent any future issues by always using the highest-quality ATF at all times.

Unusual Noises

A bad or ineffective converter will emit noises that will immediately alert a driver to an issue. Whenever you notice any clicking or whirring sounds, you need to take the torque converter in for a replacement.

Increased Stall Speed

Stall speed is the point at which the engine’s RPMs are high enough for the converter to transfer power to the transmission. A seamless power transfer becomes impossible when the converter is damaged.

How Much Does A Torque Converter Replacement Cost?

If you prefer not to replace a torque converter yourself, contact Road Runner Converters today! This company, based in Phoenix, Arizona, has been taking care of customers’ torque converter needs for more than 40 years.

Costs for a professional torque converter replacement can vary based on the labor rate at automotive shop locations. Labor costs should run between $400 and $700 at most shops. The total price for parts and labor should range from $600 to around $1,000. If this seems too costly, doing the replacement yourself remains an option, and cheaper alternative.

The average cost for a DIY replacement is $400, while a typical average cost for a professional service is around $850. At the time of a torque converter replacement, a change of the transmission fluid is recommended. Transmission flush costs range from $125-$250.