What are the symptoms of a torque converter failure?
3 Answers
The symptoms of a torque converter failure are as follows: 1. No working fluid in the torque converter: Since there is no mechanical connection between the pump impeller and the turbine in the torque converter, power is transmitted through the fluid as a medium. Without fluid, power naturally cannot be transmitted. 2. Loose or stuck connection between the turbine and the turbine shaft: Cracks at the welding point between the turbine blades and the turbine spline hub, damage to the spline connection between the spline hub and the turbine shaft, or bearing failure inside the torque converter can cause the turbine to become loose or stuck to the turbine shaft, preventing power from being output through the turbine. 3. White smoke: The engine operates normally, but fuel consumption increases. The transmission and transmission oil temperature rise significantly, and the transmission oil is prone to deterioration. In severe cases, white smoke may emerge from the oil filler port.
I've been driving for years and encountered torque converter issues with very obvious symptoms: the car struggles when accelerating, engine RPMs soar when stepping on the gas but the speed increases sluggishly, showing poor power transfer; there's a strong delay sensation during gear shifts, as if the car is hesitating; when stopped at red lights in D gear, the body shakes violently, making it uncomfortable; plus strange noises like humming or whining, especially louder at low speeds. I remember once during a trip when it failed, the car moved like an old ox pulling a cart—later found out it was due to internal vane wear contaminating the fluid. I recommend regularly checking the transmission fluid level and color; if the oil turns black or has metal shavings, be alert; early maintenance can prevent chain damage, ensuring safe and worry-free driving.
I enjoy tinkering with car repairs myself. If there's an issue with the torque converter, you'll feel the car floating, struggling to accelerate with severe shaking, and delayed gear shifts. When idling in park, the steering wheel vibrates like a phone in vibration mode. In terms of noise, the most common sounds are whining or grinding, as if metal is groaning. Diagnosis isn't complicated: use a stethoscope to listen closely to the torque converter for the sound source; check the transmission fluid level—low or murky fluid is a red flag; if the fluid contains metal shavings, it indicates damaged internal vanes. Don't underestimate this issue—it could lead to complete power loss. Try changing the fluid to see if it helps, but ultimately, you should visit a professional shop to avoid risks.
