Symptoms of Failure in a Transmission Torque Converter
When you step on the clutch pedal of a manual transmission car to shift into gear, the clutch disconnects the transmission from the car's engine. In an automatic transmission vehicle, a transmission torque converter performs the function of a clutch. The transmission torque converter is an important part of your vehicle and a lot of harmful things can happen if it fails. Learn to recognize the symptoms and likely causes of a faulty torque converter.
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Poor Efficiency Due to Blade Deformation and Fragmentation
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If the pump or turbine blades become deformed or detached from the hubs due to a malfunction of the torque converter resulting in overheating, the vehicle will experience poor performance. If the problem is not rectified, it is possible that the transmission torque converter can break completely.
Poor Efficiency Due to Stator Clutch Failure
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If the stator clutch fails, the car will have poor efficiency during the coupling phase. This happens because the stator clutch's inner and outer elements lock to each other and cannot rotate. An issue with the stator clutch such as this could also result in high fuel consumption.
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Warped Housing
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When a torque converter is used under high RPMs, ballooning can occur. The torque converter's housing can eventually warp or even rupture.
Leaks
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Overheating can render the elastomer seals in the converter ineffective. The seals' inability to perform their intended function of holding liquid can lead to leaks.
No Power
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An almost complete loss of power is usually the result of a breakage in the stator clutch. In this case, your car may not be drivable.
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