What You Need To Know About Torque Converter Repair

Torque converter repair is something that comes up fairly often in comparison to other components of the transmission. Here’s what you should know about torque converter repair.

What Is The Torque Converter?

In manual transmissions, the engine is connected to the transmission via the clutch and flywheel. Without the clutch, you wouldn’t be able to stop your vehicle without shutting offthe engine. Automatic transmissions do not have a clutch. Instead, automatic transmissions utilize a torque converter. An automatic transmission’s torque converter fulfills a similar role to the manual transmission’s clutch.

As a type of fluid coupling, the torque converter allows the engine to spin independently (to an extent) of the transmission. If your engine is turning slowly, as it does when you’re idling, only a tiny amount of torque passes through the torque converter. Because of this, you don’t have to press hard on the brake pedal in order to keep your vehicle stationary. To make your vehicle go again, you press on the gas pedal. However, you must press harder to start moving than you have to when you want to accelerate while already in motion. This is because when you’re in motion, the engine is just speeding up and pumping more fluid into the torque converter, so more torque gets transmitted to the axle(s), and therefore the wheels.

What Are Some Signs You Need A Torque Converter Repaired?

There are several different signs that your torque converter might need a repair. Some common symptoms of torque converter problems include slipping, overheating, and making unusual noises. If you check your transmission fluid and find that it is opaque instead of mostly clear or that it smells bad, this could also be a sign of a torque converter issue. Unfortunately, all these symptoms could be caused by other problems, too, so the only way to know for sure is to bring your vehicle into a transmission shop for inspection.

Do Torque Converters Require Repairs Often?

Torque converters can be a problem component in many transmissions. However, if you take care of your transmission and bring it in for routine check-ups and maintenance, you’re much less likely to require a torque converter repair.That being said, if you do have a transmission problem, the torque converter is a likely culprit. The most common type of torque converter repair is simply to replace it.

Mister Transmission

Mister Transmission can inspect, service, repair, and replace torque converters in just about any model and make of transmission. To learn more about torque converters, please contact us. We also have a comprehensive COVID-19 policy to keep everybody safe.