The torque converter is a doughnut-shaped device that lives between the front of your transmission and the back of your engine. The engine crankshaft is indirectly connected to it, and it’s the job of the torque converter to translate the rotational power from the crankshaft into hydraulic pressure so the automatic transmission can turn the drive wheels and propel you down the road. But what are the signs of a bad torque converter? Glad you asked!
What Transmission Do I Have?
Symptoms of a bad torque converter
Transmission overheating
If a bearing or the torque converter clutch is going out, it’s not uncommon for the excess heat generated from those failing parts to cause the transmission itself to overheat. You’ll notice smoke coming from the transmission and the dipstick tube. Not to mention an unusually sweet smell and a complete lack of performance.
Torque converter shudder
A very disconcerting shuttering feeling can come from torque converter when the clutch tries to lockup, but can’t and slips away. This sensation will often vibrate the entire vehicle and can seriously impact performance.
Slipping
Transmission slipping can often be caused by a bad torque converter. If a turbine fin or bearing has failed, the torque converter won’t be able to generate enough hydraulic pressure through the transmission pump to fully engage a gear.
Increased stall speed
Basically, stall speed is the point that the engine has enough RPMs to transfer rotational power through the torque converter to the transmission. If you are having torque converter problems, then the engine may rev a bit higher before the transmission will engage.
Transmission fluid leak
Another common symptom of a bad torque converter is transmission fluid leaks around the front of the transmission. If this is happening, the loss of transmission fluid could be preventing the torque converter from creating the hydraulic pressure needed to operate the transmission.
To learn more about torque converters, try these:
How does a torque converter clutch work?
How do I know if my TCC solenoid is bad?
What Is Torque Converter Stall Speed?
How Performance Torque Converters Work
How Racing Torque Converters Work
What Transmission Do I Have?
