What are the symptoms of a faulty torque converter?
2 Answers
The symptoms of a faulty torque converter include excessively high oil temperature, low oil supply pressure, oil leakage, low machine travel speed or lack of power during operation, as well as abnormal noises coming from the interior during operation. The causes of a faulty torque converter are the large wear gap of the sealing rings on the turbine shaft and inside the guide wheel seat, resulting in internal oil leakage, poor oil inflow and return in the torque converter, and high oil temperature in the torque converter. The function of the torque converter is to automatically and continuously change the turbine speed according to load changes, improving the vehicle's passing ability. The torque converter connects the pump wheel and turbine through liquid, reducing the impact load of the engine on the transmission system and extending the life of the transmission system.
I've experienced a faulty torque converter before. The most noticeable symptom while driving was the lack of acceleration - even with the pedal to the metal, the car moved as slow as a snail, making highway overtaking extremely frustrating. Severe gear slippage occurred when shifting, with the car responding sluggishly for several seconds before moving, whether in drive or reverse, which was particularly annoying during rush hour traffic. There was also a whining noise, especially louder during low-speed turns, as if the engine was groaning in pain. Fuel consumption would also skyrocket - I once found a full tank of gas got me dozens of kilometers less than usual. It's advisable to change the transmission fluid regularly to avoid this issue, otherwise prolonged neglect can lead to more severe transmission damage at a much higher cost. When driving discomfort arises, it's best to seek professional inspection and repair promptly to ensure travel safety.
