What is a Torque Converter?
and what does a Torque Converter do?
When you come to a stop in your vehicle, drivers with manual transmissions use a clutch to disconnect the engine from the transmission so your engine can continue to spin while your wheels do not. Drivers with automatic transmissions don’t have a clutch and instead rely upon the torque converter to perform the same task.
A torque converter is a type of fluid coupling, which allows the engine to spin somewhat independently of the transmission. If the engine is turning slowly, such as when the car is idling at a stoplight, the amount of torque passed through the torque converter is very small, so keeping the car still requires only a light pressure on the brake pedal.
Essentially, when the torque converter fails your car isn’t going anywhere.
How to know that your Torque Converter has failed or is failing:
If your engine will rev up, but the car won’t shift into gear or move it could be a defective torque converter. In fact, the majority of Honda owners with transmission problems are caused by a failing torque converter. When your torque converter fails, it will essentially burn up the transmission fluid, rendering the entire transmission useless.
Torque Converter problems are very common in all types of vehicles, including Hondas. Vibrating or noises upon acceleration can be a sign that there is a problem with your torque converter. Since many of the problems associated with the torque converter could also be mistaken for another problem, the best solution is to have your vehicle inspected by a qualifed mechanic.
Located in Charlotte NC or surrounding areas?
Contact us at 704-821-3460 for a Free Estimate or Diagnosis for your torque converter or transmission problem. We offer Free Towing with major repairs, 0% financing, and free estimates. Known as the Transmission King of Charlotte, we will be able to properly diagnose your torque converter problem and have your vehicle repaired in no time