The Most Common Automatic Transmission Issues – Solved!

by Jose Moeller on Aug 30th, 2022 15:18 PM

Automatic transmission has been a buzz word around us for a while now. But, do you know about the actual component behind the automatic transmission? This is a torque converter.

It transforms engine power into hydraulic pressure, which in turn regulates the shifting. However, it might seem quite efficient until there is a failure. The torque converter might fail and put you in a lot of trouble.

As a torque converter is a mechanical device, it is prone to failure. The effort required by the vehicle to maintain the same speed level increases when the torque converter develops a fault.

The engine will need to turn more times per minute to operate, which will reduce the transmission fluid pressure and fuel efficiency. But, there might be a complete misconception about the symptoms of a failing torque converter, as many owners miscalculate the transmission issues. And, sometimes people pay a huge amount for transmission repair.

This turns into an expensive affair. However, the cost of replacing the torque converter is much less than that of replacing the transmission.

If there is enough awareness about the torque converters issue, you will not end up paying for the unnecessary repair.

Slippery Gears

In an automatic transmission, the gears should change automatically in a smooth manner. However, you can also experience a slippery transition, and sometimes the gears are not able to hold onto a position.

However, a rigid automatic transmission is a sign of the initiation of failure of the torque converter. You can be sure by opting for expert advice at a reliable service centre.

Overheating Transmission

Transmission is quite sensitive to heat, and there is always a lot of heat produced during a drive. However, a lack of transmission fluid contributes to the heat generation as it is not able to provide enough lubrication.

However, a failing torque converter, which fails to work properly, is also a major cause of overheating. You can make yourself sure of this by consulting with a professional to mitigate further damage.

Abnormal Sounds from the Transmission System

There are numerous sounds that can be made when a torque converter malfunctions. Sometimes, there is also a rattling noise, but this noise won't be as loud when the car is in park.

The rattling noise will, however, become more frequent and louder as soon as the transmission shifts into gear, which is bad news for your converter. Any noise from your transmission is not a good sign for a torque converter.

Transmission Fluid Contamination

A torque converter consists of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to lubricate high efficiency functioning. However, a worn torque converter may allow the metal debris to contaminate it.

A contaminated transmission fluid is not supposed to work properly even result into internal damage. Additionally, contaminated fluid can harm the stator bearings and turbine fins, two torque converter parts.

Apart from that, the transmission fluid might end up in sludge if there is negligence for a long time. Make sure your transmission is always filled with high-quality fluid to avoid either of these from happening over time.

Just replacing the contaminated fluid can save you a lot of money, so keep that in mind.

Improper Synchronization of Transmission

A torque converter needs to be intact while transferring power from the engine to the transmission system. However, a damaged torque converter lacks the capacity to transfer the engine power to the hydraulic pressure properly.

It also includes the increment into the stall speed, a minimum RPM that is necessary to initiate the revolution transfer to the transmission.

However, improper synchronization is clearly visible while it needs an expert assessment. If there are no issues with the torque converter, transmission programming turns out to be useful to bring the system back on track.

Severe Trembling During a Drive

Severe trembling is not a good experience when it might occur for many reasons. One common cause is a defective torque converter when you start to experience severe shakes even on a smooth surface.

Technically, it is due to the lock-up clutch inside the torque converter. It fails to facilitate the smooth transmission. However, if you started to experience such issues, it is worth to have an inspection at a reliable service centre. At Service My Car, you can get all your car needs sorted at the tap of a button. Like you need ​car service Manchester then you can easily book a service or repair online, get service progress updates sent to your phone, and even get free vehicle collection and delivery with all the services.

Acceleration Problem

The torque converter is likely to be the cause of a transmission issue if your car feels slower than usual or physically trembles when you press the gas pedal, suggesting that it is having trouble accelerating as it normally would.

However, the underlying engine issue is a common cause of the acceleration problems. But, if it is coupled with an odd transmission system sound, there is no way that it could not be a problem with the torque converter.

When you are aware of the symptoms, torque converter issues are liable to be prevented. Once these symptoms become apparent, it is imperative to have the appliance fixed or to seek professional assistance.

A torque converter is just a part of transmission systems, but it may wreak havoc inside the unit. However, torque converters are inexpensive to replace, especially when compared to the car's transmission.

Therefore, it is imperative that you recognise these warning signs and act right away if any symptoms appear. However, torque converter is a technical component and you cannot rely on anyone for the car maintenance.

Here, Service My Car assures the satisfaction interms of quality and cost for a car repair. You can approach us on our app or website by requesting a quote for a car service.