It is extremely difficult to distinguish between an issue with a torque converter or automatic transmission. Use our guide to diagnose the problem.
What Is A Torque Converter?
Essentially, the torque converter in your car is the same as a vehicle’s clutch with a manual transmission. Unlike a manual transmission, though, the converter uses fluid to power the transmission. This is done to prevent your engine from stalling.
If you currently have an automatic transmission vehicle, then you already use torque converters daily. These converters are some of the most complex parts in the internal areas of your vehicle. The engine connects to the transmission with a clutch, so the vehicle can come to a full stop without harming the engine. Vehicles that feature an automatic transmission have something else that connects the engine to the transmission: a torque converter.
You will find this doughnut-shaped component attached directly between the transmission and engine. Two series of curved blades, facing opposite directions, work inside the converter. The inside will be filled with transmission fluid that helps transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Torque converters generally work with maximum efficiency by generating as much energy transmission as possible, while reducing any heat buildup.
Bad Torque Converter Signs
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.
What Is Automatic Transmission?
Automatic transmission uses a complex set of solenoids, gears, clutches and valve bodies to execute the function a driver would do while shifting in manual transmission. Additionally, an automatic transmission is undoubtedly more complicated than a manual transmission.
Bad Transmission Signs
Faulty transmission can be tied to numerous issues. The transmission includes many more moving parts than simply a torque converter.
Dirty Fluid
Transmission fluid can tell you a lot about the transmission’s overall condition. Just simply looking at the fluid will tell you whether or not there is an issue.
Gear Delay
It is typically a transmission issue whenever there is a delay between when you press the gear selector into gear, then hear a clunk of the gearbox.
Some Gears Work
Whenever a transmission works only in a certain gear, it’s a clear sign of a transmission problem. If this is the case, it could mean that the clutches have gone bad in a gear set, among other possibilities.
Odd Smells
If a vehicle reaches high mileage, it’s possible that the fluid may leak or burn inside the transmission. A weird odor may be released at this point.
No Movement In Gear
Transmission with low fluid will not move simply because there is not enough fluid present.
Road Runner Converters Offers Many Torque Converter Replacements
Road Runner Converters offers many torque converters for sale online. We offer GM Torque Converters, Ford Torque Converters, Diesel Torque Converters, Towing Torque Converters, Street Torque Converters and more.
