6 Signs of a Failing Torque Converter
Automatic vehicles have a torque converter as part of the transmission. It is one of the key components that allows your car or truck to automatically shift between gears. It converts the engine’s power into hydraulic pressure, which ultimately controls the shifting.
The torque converter is a delicate part that is filled with automatic transmission fluid and generates the hydraulic pressure it needs to function properly. There are some signs that you may have a problem with your torque converter.
1) Loss of acceleration
If your vehicle feels sluggish or physically shudders when you press the gas pedal (as if it’s difficult to accelerate as usual), this is an indication that there may be a problem with the transmission and the torque converter may be the culprit.
2) Slipping between gears
Vehicles with automatic transmissions should shift smoothly between gears. You can usually feel it to some extent, especially when accelerating or decelerating rapidly. However, you may also feel like your vehicle is slipping between gears when shifting or notice that it has difficulty maintaining a certain gear. If the shifts feel rough or strange, there is a good chance that you have a problem with the torque converter.
3) Vehicle won’t shift gears at all
If your vehicle won’t shift into a particular gear at all, that’s a sure sign of a faulty torque converter. If you can’t shift into reverse or your forward gears won’t engage, you may have a problem with your torque converter.
4) Overheating transmission
Like your engine, your transmission also has a sensitive temperature gauge that will warn you if your transmission is overheating. An overheating transmission is a serious issue, so you should have your vehicle inspected by a transmission professional as soon as possible. It could be a faulty torque converter or other internal damage that needs to be addressed.
5) Transmission Oil Leak
Transmission fluid is important for the function and performance of the torque converter (and the entire transmission system). The seals in the torque converter can easily become damaged or worn over time, making it a common cause of transmission fluid leaks. If you notice a transmission fluid leak, don’t take any chances. It’s an early warning sign that something is wrong, and if ignored, it can lead to serious internal damage.
6) Bad Gear Oil
If you check your transmission fluid and find that it is dark, burnt, cloudy, or clogged with metal shavings or other debris, have your transmission serviced immediately. This may be all you need to get fresh fluid flowing through your system again.
These are some of the common signs of a torque converter failure and other potential transmission issues. If you live in the Central Valley area and suspect you have a problem with your transmission, contact Ralph’s Transmission in Modesto for the best transmission repair and maintenance services. Call us today at 209.526.1909 or schedule your free inspection online.