Torque Converter Replacement: What It Entails Cost and FAQs

Reading Time: 4 minutes

A faulty torque converter causes multiple issues that are dangerous to drive with. As such, it’s imperative to replace it immediately.

If you’re unfamiliar with the task, don’t fret. Here is what you can expect when having the torque converter replaced.

What Does Torque Converter Replacement Entail?

Replacing the torque converter involves several steps:

• Step 1: The old torque converter and other components are removed.
• Step 2: The new torque converter is flushed with automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
• Step 3: The pump gear, stator splines, and turbine splines are checked if they’re engaging.
• Step 4: The vehicle is tested to get the adaptive settings close to what they should be and prevent damage to the unit.

Flushing the torque converter means cleaning it with ATF to keep your vehicle working as intended. Failure to do so may accelerate the deterioration of the converter.

What Is a Torque Converter?

A faulty torque converter causes multiple issues that are dangerous to drive with.

The torque converter is a device between the engine and the transmission that has different functions:

• Transmitting and multiplying engine torque
• Acting as a clutch between the engine and the transmission
• Allowing slippage to enable the transmission to engage in gear when the vehicle stops

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Torque Converter?

Replacing the torque converter costs between $600 and $1,000, depending on the auto repair shop’s labor fee and the new converter’s price. A new part ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the year, make, and model of the car.

How Long Does It Take To Replace a Torque Converter?

It typically takes four to five hours to replace the torque converter.

Can I Drive With a Bad Torque Converter?

It’s dangerous to drive with a bad torque converter because it causes issues with acceleration, transmission, and gear shifting, among other things. As such, experts recommend repairing or replacing immediately to limit further damage and prevent potential accidents.

When Should I Replace a Torque Converter?

You should replace or repair the torque converter if you see symptoms that it’s faulty or failing. Have your vehicle diagnosed when you feel gear slipping, shuddering, or rattling noises to confirm whether a bad converter is causing the issue or a different malfunctioning component.

Can I Replace the Torque Converter Myself?

You can replace the torque converter yourself if you have the proper know-how. The price of having it replaced by professionals is steep because of how tedious the process is, so you can save money if you do it yourself.

But because the converter plays an important part in vehicle functionality, it’s best to leave its replacement to the experts if you’re unsure of the process.

Symptoms of a Bad Torque Converter

A bad torque converter has different symptoms you need to look out for. Most of them involve issues with transmission and gears:

Slipping Transmissions

Excessive or limited fluid usually makes the torque converter faulty. Both cases cause the transmission to slip, making it difficult to shift or stay in gear.

Decreased Speed

Inconsistent torque converter output can decrease speed due to the varying fluid pressure.

Shuddering

You might feel your vehicle shudder when driving with a bad transmission converter. Typically, the vibration starts at 30 to 40 mph. It’s not consistent and continuous, as it tends to come and go.

Car Noise

Due to the different mechanisms the torque converter has, and the various components it’s attached to, a faulty one causes a loud whirring noise when driving.

Overheating Transmission

The transmission has a temperature gauge that warns you if it’s overheating. And because lack of fluid usually causes a faulty torque converter, overheating is another of its common symptoms.

Transmission Fluid Leak

Torque converter damage may also mean a worn-out seal that’s leaking transmission fluid.

Bad Transmission Fluid

Dirty or contaminated transmission fluid is often caused by a malfunctioning torque converter and vice versa.

Causes of Bad Torque Converter

Many factors can damage the torque converter.

Many factors can damage the torque converter. Here are some of the most common causes:

Faulty Bearings

The bearings reduce friction to ensure smooth operation. If they fail, you might start hearing grinding noises due to the two parts rubbing against each other. The increased friction could cause the torque converter to fail.

Contaminated Transmission Fluid

A contaminated transmission fluid can cause the torque converter to fail. Similarly, other components that rely on the fluid can also be affected.

Damaged Seals

The torque converter seal not only prevents leaks but also keeps out dirt and debris. A damaged seal makes the transmission fluid more prone to contamination, which can lead to a failing torque converter.

Insufficient Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid is insufficient, the torque converter works harder to compensate. The excess energy it spends trying to provide power can cause it to malfunction.

Damaged Clutch Solenoid

The clutch solenoid measures the amount of transmission fluid needed for operation. This means a damaged solenoid causes excessive fluid pressure, which can damage the torque converter. That could lead to increased fuel consumption, erratic shifting, slipping, or vehicle stalling.

The post Torque Converter Replacement: What It Entails, Cost, and FAQs appeared first on In The Garage with CarParts.com.

https://ift.tt/uB9GotZ https://ift.tt/eqc9Z5H https://notes.io//Tzb4 https://ift.tt/VF3OZxq https://ift.tt/AkHlU81 https://ift.tt/lGUfhEo https://ift.tt/xcd3L17 https://ift.tt/HCwneo6 https://ift.tt/7VGLOyH https://ift.tt/pTJb9GU https://ift.tt/sh3ytkG https://ift.tt/7s8eBGW https://ift.tt/fCBh149 https://ift.tt/yl6RCxB https://notes.io//Tzxx https://ift.tt/0cnbTlB https://ift.tt/KhPDyu1 https://ift.tt/qSZXvuU https://ift.tt/2CqmEBP https://ift.tt/21xyosz https://ift.tt/n4b30iF https://ift.tt/sRQiZ1t https://ift.tt/gYuA9vm https://ift.tt/0UV3FLq https://ift.tt/s6ugaUL https://ift.tt/81sUAmS https://ift.tt/3J5Erld https://notes.io//TzdJ https://ift.tt/Z2u0plE https://ift.tt/fAYH4wi https://ift.tt/NjOeX5G https://ift.tt/s3BYeUd https://ift.tt/b2TdSiL https://ift.tt/EFCxseH https://ift.tt/8gv7TOz https://ift.tt/cdVqmuj https://ift.tt/uTbgk1R https://ift.tt/VBNnf9d https://ift.tt/E6NpvlW https://ift.tt/kqtYLpP https://ift.tt/TutPYyG https://notes.io//Tzdn https://ift.tt/HJsKfgV https://ift.tt/BZOXj36 https://ift.tt/t68LwSo https://ift.tt/ef7Q83a https://ift.tt/yl36gR9 https://ift.tt/KnjCsEk https://ift.tt/wQyM9on https://ift.tt/mdNV3At https://ift.tt/EdvUQst https://ift.tt/4KVIyAB https://ift.tt/eREtUI4 https://ift.tt/i8nob9A https://ift.tt/vQLuXDr https://notes.io//Tzdm https://ift.tt/AB6yv3H https://ift.tt/lMw5a9Y https://ift.tt/t68LwSo https://ift.tt/GrJ1abw https://ift.tt/digz0ps https://ift.tt/SzNQ5G6 https://ift.tt/3ekLbS8 https://ift.tt/f0FTUIc https://ift.tt/jhyQHdE https://ift.tt/7C4w6g9 https://ift.tt/zM3QNAL https://ift.tt/YNfjBuA https://ift.tt/03VCsjQ https://notes.io//TzxT https://ift.tt/4m1gTho https://ift.tt/2tW7JyF https://ift.tt/JtFM30m https://ift.tt/MiWjNws https://ift.tt/vzdwq46 https://ift.tt/UbV43EB https://ift.tt/VAb7lBW https://ift.tt/9iRtnZA https://ift.tt/UqgGJp7 https://ift.tt/dUecKHx https://ift.tt/3D9iCgv https://ift.tt/Ldb5UYO https://ift.tt/OFzCrxN https://notes.io//TzhL https://ift.tt/Z6pvljD https://ift.tt/j4nWlAr https://ift.tt/zISsCRZ https://ift.tt/395etxm https://ift.tt/OMWS4NC https://ift.tt/oBKFfP5 https://ift.tt/zwj3fQL https://ift.tt/pe5WERv https://ift.tt/k5AUday https://ift.tt/HqSjfB2 https://ift.tt/wiY3mSI https://notes.io//Tzdb https://ift.tt/AMr1Di0 https://ift.tt/Kq2u6Nx https://ift.tt/ZeNPnKQ https://ift.tt/ImiEVp1 https://ift.tt/WJxBfpI https://ift.tt/7t4DFw1 https://ift.tt/0TjMWsh https://ift.tt/sM9KWrm https://ift.tt/b7f85OW https://ift.tt/PmDV5e6 https://ift.tt/Qx9PmFZ https://ift.tt/ZURK6qb https://ift.tt/mOp3DtT https://notes.io//TzsQ https://ift.tt/SGNPik1 https://ift.tt/v5xQCoa https://ift.tt/EJTgKLb https://ift.tt/QU1RFNa https://ift.tt/AD09owu https://ift.tt/unxk2BA https://ift.tt/c6HmNyr https://ift.tt/5sA9jew https://ift.tt/yJ4rgv8 https://ift.tt/Lit0Z6q https://ift.tt/apAuQVo https://ift.tt/boRqkIn https://ift.tt/hqmNR20 https://notes.io//Tzdq https://ift.tt/isJFWhu https://ift.tt/1WuoOX3 https://ift.tt/pegDM4d https://ift.tt/rx8IwSR https://ift.tt/YIfxFQ3 https://ift.tt/gGcPaqb https://ift.tt/30MVNIL https://ift.tt/aCfnkev https://ift.tt/FRautDO https://ift.tt/IR3ljzE https://ift.tt/FMjGfyc https://ift.tt/CY1nsmP https://ift.tt/YQMBJb2 https://notes.io//Tzja https://ift.tt/IOG524X https://ift.tt/SHecOTL https://ift.tt/qwdsTBc https://ift.tt/D5cTCIg https://ift.tt/4UsFN90 https://ift.tt/EPlX2HV https://ift.tt/6fWGNAh https://ift.tt/khiUpOF https://ift.tt/gHY0w6e https://ift.tt/LEFsfC0 https://ift.tt/7O59GyN https://ift.tt/XpkuYoB https://ift.tt/LRrAwaM https://notes.io//TzdH https://ift.tt/F6jbE7U https://ift.tt/XPBuyVv https://ift.tt/xWjh1qQ https://ift.tt/S0jyrb2 https://ift.tt/Icq52ho https://ift.tt/DfP51Rx https://ift.tt/GEaStxW https://ift.tt/SAYNdiR https://ift.tt/gaRHJyA https://ift.tt/10UG4TE https://ift.tt/rUw15DH https://ift.tt/XOgk8H9 https://notes.io//TzpE https://ift.tt/Xs2ivVz https://ift.tt/BfPANca https://ift.tt/M5RZ0zS https://ift.tt/FY6cHPv https://ift.tt/iHlPrxL https://ift.tt/s32JQGi https://ift.tt/ELzOPYs https://ift.tt/GlIbMeP https://ift.tt/vEwMn01 https://ift.tt/VCZqaUt https://ift.tt/oUPFunX https://ift.tt/PSgdXuU https://ift.tt/lTeYzdo https://notes.io//TzpN https://ift.tt/ZOMSj91 https://ift.tt/QxYIqXH https://ift.tt/Ihr6BYm https://ift.tt/VQqBwoz https://ift.tt/G7T05sH https://ift.tt/6qYf2PZ https://ift.tt/emMh3Gd https://ift.tt/EyHcXun https://ift.tt/4bzAted https://ift.tt/lCBJLyV https://ift.tt/wOcFLtD https://ift.tt/RWfp5rl https://ift.tt/SwrIEO3 https://notes.io//Tzsb https://ift.tt/TmZiloY https://ift.tt/V2iQs91 https://ift.tt/S43YmGl https://ift.tt/C3rKaQL https://ift.tt/TyUQWSb https://ift.tt/pALjcnr https://ift.tt/4KinU9C https://ift.tt/ipV0EQC https://ift.tt/U7rENxt https://ift.tt/dbp5X1z https://ift.tt/Qvu9Nio https://ift.tt/hUPmcRA https://ift.tt/MdkTZ0G https://notes.io//Tzat https://ift.tt/JCwqM6P https://ift.tt/b0IEc3y https://ift.tt/ORYQrPF https://ift.tt/sgDGS9L https://ift.tt/LrlSGOq https://ift.tt/pE2bnC9 https://ift.tt/EpfARra https://ift.tt/8Yq4P7V https://ift.tt/7JOfRqr https://ift.tt/ewTX5Rq https://ift.tt/pjXZ5KH https://ift.tt/4Lcx5CA https://ift.tt/Hxh9CAK https://notes.io//TzpW https://ift.tt/DYMQ7Vi https://ift.tt/gdAUNBr https://ift.tt/cwZ7NsL https://ift.tt/FY6cHPv https://ift.tt/CvpAFrm https://ift.tt/Std4Bcq https://ift.tt/2ypIkfH https://ift.tt/MJ0WyTC https://ift.tt/A8nS9Ct https://ift.tt/WQPfcjl https://ift.tt/T3YMemo