What Causes High Engine RPM but No Speed Increase in an Automatic Transmission Car?
1 Answers
Automatic transmission cars experiencing high engine RPM without a corresponding speed increase can be attributed to the following reasons: faulty fuel pump, clogged fuel filter leading to reduced engine power; automatic transmission malfunction; hydraulic system component jamming in the automatic transmission; clutch slippage; torque converter failing to lock. An automatic transmission typically refers to a car's automatic gear-shifting mechanism, where the transmission control system automatically selects the appropriate gear based on engine speed and load, replacing the driver's manual judgment and shifting operations. The most common cause is the torque converter not locking. During normal driving, the engine and wheels are rigidly connected, meaning any increase in engine RPM should directly translate to higher vehicle speed. While the degree of speed change relative to RPM varies by gear, it should still follow the transmission ratio synchronously. If engine RPM rises without a proportional speed increase, the torque converter is likely at fault for not locking. The torque converter serves as a power transmission medium between some automatic transmissions and the engine, relying on high-speed transmission fluid flow to drive the turbine. It allows for a certain RPM difference between input and output shafts and can amplify torque. At low speeds or during start-up, it mimics the semi-engagement effect of a manual transmission clutch. Due to the inefficiency of hydraulic power transmission, torque converters generate significant power loss during normal driving. Thus, modern torque converters incorporate a lock-up clutch that engages at higher speeds to transmit power directly via friction, reducing energy loss. If the torque converter doesn't lock at low speeds, pressing the accelerator will result in high engine noise with minimal speed change. Automatic transmission gear positions include: P for Park; R for Reverse; N for Neutral; D for Drive; M for Manual mode; L for Low gear; and S for Sport mode.