Torque Converter Repair and Replacement

If your vehicle is giving you some problems, it could be possible that your torque converter needs some attention. Read on to learn more about this pivotal automotive component and whether yours might be in need of repair or replacement.

What is a Torque Converter?
Many people are unfamiliar with even the term torque converter, so before discussing torque converter repair, it’s important to understand exactly what the job of the torque converter is. In a manual transmission, the clutch is the part that connects the transmission and the engine. When you disengage the clutch you are able to stop your vehicle without having to stop the engine. However, automatic transmissions don’t have a clutch. Instead, if a transmission is automatic, it will have a torque converter, a fluid or hydraulic coupling that allows the engine to continue spinning independent of the transmission.

Do Torque Converters Often Need to be Repaired or Replaced?

Since they are so often utilized within an automatic transmission, a torque converter goes under a lot of stress, more so than other components. This means they may need repair more often. You can reduce the risk of needing future repair by taking good care of your transmission and bringing it in for regular maintenance. If the need for repair does arise, know that a malfunctioning torque converter is more often replaced than repaired. There may be some adjustments that can be made by your mechanic in some cases, but typically replacement is the more efficient and effective course of action.

What to do About Your Torque Converter?

If you notice your transmission overheating, slipping, or making strange noises, you may need torque converter repair or replacement. Another sign to watch for is opaque, dark red or foul-smelling transmission fluid. Good transmission fluid will be red but translucent and has a mostly neutral scent. Be aware that these could just as likely be symptoms of other kinds of transmission issues, so the best thing to do if you suspect a problem of any kind is to bring your vehicle in to be diagnosed by the experts.

Our business offers torque converter repair and replacement, in addition to a wide variety of other transmission repair and maintenance services. Whether you have an automatic, manual, or CVT transmission that needs attention, we are happy to serve you. Please reach out to learn more.