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Torque Converter Diagnosis

The torque converter stator roller clutch can have two different malfunctions.

If the stator is freewheeling at all times, the vehicle tends to have poor acceleration from a standstill and at speeds below 48-55 km/h (30-34 mph). At speeds above 48-55 km/h (30-34 mph), the car may act normally.

For poor acceleration, you should first determine that the exhaust system is not blocked, and the transmission is in First gear when starting out. If the engine freely accelerates to high RPM in NEUTRAL, you can assume that the engine and the exhaust system are normal. Check for poor performance in DRIVE and REVERSE to help determine if the stator is freewheeling at all times.

If the stator is locked up at all times, performance is normal when accelerating from a standstill. Engine RPM and vehicle speed are limited or restricted at speeds above 48-55 km/h (30-34 mph). Visual examination of the converter may reveal a blue colour from overheating.

Note: Do not confuse this noise with pump whine noise, which is usually noticeable in all gear ranges. Pump whine will vary with line pressure.

Torque converter whine is noticed when the vehicle is stopped and the transmission is in DRIVE or REVERSE. This noise will increase as you increase the engine RPM. The noise will stop when the vehicle is moving or when you apply the torque converter clutch, because there is no slip speed across the bearings.

Perform a stall test to make sure the noise is actually coming from the converter:

1. Place your foot on the brake.
2. Put the gear selector in DRIVE.

Caution: You may damage the transmission if you depress the accelerator for more than 6 seconds.

3. Depress the accelerator to approximately 1,200 RPM for no more than 6 seconds.

A torque converter noise will increase under this load.

The torque converter clutch (TCC) is applied by fluid pressure, which is controlled by a pulse width modulated (PWM) solenoid valve. This solenoid is part of the control solenoid valve assembly, which is located inside the automatic transmission assembly. The solenoid is controlled through a combination of computer controlled switches and sensors. Electronically controlled capacity clutch (ECCC) is controlled slip across the TCC.

The key to diagnosing torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder is to note when it happens and under what conditions. TCC shudder should only occur during the apply, release, or ECCC conditions of the converter clutch. Shudder should never occur after the TCC is fully locked (approximately 0 RPM slip).

If the shudder occurs while the TCC is applying, the problem can be within the transmission or the torque converter. Something is causing one of the following conditions to occur:

One of the following conditions may be causing the TCC Shudder to occur:

Engine problems may go unnoticed under light throttle and load, but they become noticeable after the TCC has locked when going up a hill or accelerating.

Refer to Symptoms - Engine Controls  (1.8L) or Symptoms - Engine Controls  (2.0L) in order to avoid misdiagnosis of TCC shudder and the unnecessary disassembly of a transmission or the unnecessary replacement of a torque converter.

Note: The Noise and Vibration Analysis procedure should be performed prior to performing this test.

To determine and correct a torque converter vibration, the following procedure may have to be performed several times to achieve the best possible torque converter to flexplate balance.

1. Remove the torque converter bolts.
2. Rotate the torque converter one bolt position from the original marked position.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.





Caution: When installing the torque converter to the flexplate, make sure to use specified bolts. DO NOT use longer bolts. Using longer bolts will result in deformation of the torque converter cover and cause internal damage.

3. Align the torque converter pilot (2) in the engine crankshaft (3). Install the torque converter to flexplate bolts, and tighten according to Fastener Tightening Specifications .
4. Lower the vehicle.
5. With the engine at idle speed and the transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, observe the vibration.

Repeat this procedure until the best possible balance is obtained.

6. Install the torque converter access cover and bolts (if equipped) and tighten according to Fastener Tightening Specifications .