How fast will the car shake if the torque converter is broken?

[LorenzoAnn]

If the torque converter is broken, the car will shake at speeds between 40 km/h to 80 km/h. The functions of the torque converter are as follows: Clutch function: When the engine is idling, the torque converter acts as a disengaged clutch between the engine and the transmission. Torque multiplication: By combining "high impeller speed" with "low turbine speed," it increases torque, thereby generating greater starting and driving torque. Hydraulic coupling function: Under non-idling or non-starting conditions, it acts as a hydraulic coupling, transmitting engine torque to the transmission. Lock-up function: When the turbine speed rises to match the impeller speed, the lock-up clutch engages, and the torque converter transmits engine power to the transmission in a 1:1 ratio.

[Peyton]

The torque converter is that thing in automatic transmission cars, and whether the car shakes when it's broken doesn't have a fixed speed—it depends on how exactly it's broken. I once drove an old car where the torque converter was worn out inside, and it shook a lot at low speeds, especially when starting between 15 to 30 km/h—it felt like the steering wheel was vibrating. If the lock-up clutch inside has issues, it can also shake at higher speeds, like when accelerating between 50 to 80 km/h, making you uncomfortable. When this part fails, it can also lead to a drop in transmission efficiency, causing fuel consumption to spike, making the drive unreliable. Don’t delay—if you notice abnormal vibrations in the car, take it to a professional repair shop right away to avoid small issues turning into big problems that could affect driving safety. Regular maintenance, like checking the transmission fluid condition, can help detect faults early and prevent them.

[VonMiles]

As someone who knows a bit about cars, torque converter failure-induced vibrations are usually noticeable at specific speeds, but the intensity varies by vehicle. In mild cases, low-speed driving tends to cause shaking, such as noticeable wobbling at around 20 km/h during stop-and-go city traffic. If internal blade deformation or severe fluid issues are present, vibrations can also occur at speeds above 60 km/h on highways. This is related to vehicle load and road conditions, becoming more pronounced during uphill acceleration. Vibrations aren’t limited to speed—idling can also make the seat tremble, often accompanied by noise. I recommend diagnosing the fault type first, whether it requires fluid replacement or a full inspection, and not delaying repairs. Pay attention to driving habits—avoid sudden braking or hard acceleration to extend component lifespan.

[McStella]

A faulty torque converter can cause car shaking without an absolute speed threshold—it all depends on the extent of the damage. For example, I once saw a colleague’s car with a burnt torque converter clutch; it vibrated as soon as the accelerator was pressed, with the strongest shaking occurring at low-speed starts around 25 km/h. The issue isn’t fixed—it varies based on factors like the car’s age, driving conditions, and the location of the fault, and may also involve other elements such as fatigue in chassis components. If your car shakes while driving, don’t panic. First, reduce speed and drive cautiously, checking for unusual noises or signs of oil leakage. If the problem is severe, get it repaired promptly—replacing parts isn’t expensive, but it’s best to act early. Driving like this for long periods can damage the engine, so avoid high-speed sections before repairs to minimize risks.