Your vehicle’s torque converter is an essential part of your drivetrain because it’s responsible for transmitting power from your engine to your transmission. If you’re starting to experience a failing torque converter, after noticing any of these five warning signs, it may be time to bring in a transmission specialist to inspect and repair your transmission sooner rather than later before any further damage occurs.
Transmission Won’t Shift Gears
One of the most common and easily recognizable signs that your torque converter is failing is when your transmission has trouble shifting gears. If your car starts jerking or hesitating when it changes gears, it may indicate something is wrong with your torque converter.
Poor Acceleration
Poor acceleration is one of the first and most noticeable signs that your torque converter may fail. If your vehicle feels like it’s struggling to get up to speed, or if it’s taking longer than usual to accelerate, there may be an issue with your torque converter. Various transmission problems can also cause your car to hesitate or jerk when you try to accelerate. If you notice any of these issues, it’s essential to have your torque converter checked by a professional as soon as possible.
Overheating Transmission
Another common sign of a failing torque converter is overheating transmission fluid. When your torque converter fails, it can cause your transmission to overheat, leading to transmission trouble. If you notice that your transmission fluid is overheating, it’s essential to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic right away.
Slipping Gears
Another noticeable sign that your torque converter is going bad is when your car starts to slip gears. This can happen while you’re driving, and you’ll notice that the engine revs without the vehicle speeding up. Slipping gears can also occur when you’re trying to accelerate from a stop, and your car won’t go. Other transmission problems can cause slipping, so it’s best to have your vehicle diagnosed by a professional.
Contaminated Transmission Fluid
Contaminated transmission fluid is another common sign of a failing torque converter. If your transmission fluid is dark or smells burnt, your torque converter could be to blame. However, your vehicle may need a transmission fluid change, so it’s best to consult with your mechanic to have your car’s transmission diagnosed.
Your car’s torque converter is an essential part of the transmission, and if it fails, your vehicle’s performance will suffer. See your trusted mechanic as soon as you notice any signs of a failing torque converter.