Symptoms of a Bad Torque Converter
The torque converter is a fluid coupling that transfers power produced by the engine to the transmission above 500 to 800 RPM. These couplers allow your car to idle without driver input, and most will give tell-tale signs of impending failure before it occurs.
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Overheating
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Overheating is perhaps the most common TC problem, and usually occurs when there is a transmission fluid pressure drop, as might occur when the fluid is too low or the filter is clogged.
Slippage
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This is another common TC problem, and causes your car to resist acceleration while the engine continues to rev. The most common cause is low or overheated transmission fluid.
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Shudder
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TC shudder feels like driving over a heavily washboarded dirt road when accelerating. This is usually symptomatic of previously overheated or currently overheating transmission fluid.
Debris in Oil
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If your transmission fluid dipstick has flakes of black material stuck to it, either your transmission or TC clutches are damaged. Repair is not necessarily required, unless other symptoms manifest.
Poor Fuel Economy
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This is generally related to converter slippage, but may also be a sign that your TC's internal clutches are not locking up when they should be.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley
