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Home / Symptoms / Torque Converter Replacement Cost

torque converter replacement cost varies in price depending on the vehicle model, labor costs, and area conditions

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What is the cost of replacing a Torque Converter?

Torque converter replacement cost

The average cost of replacing a torque converter for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $600 and $1,200, depending on the vehicle model.

For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, a torque converter replacement can fall around the $2,500 range on a 2024 Mercedes G-Wagon.

What are the costs of changing the torque converter?

Changing the torque converter is a process that needs professional labor, specialized tools, and service knowledge. We can consider that labor rates, the shop’s area, the torque converter’s location in the car, etc., are going to have a say on the price. Let’s explore this better.

Common replacement costs

The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.
The shop’s neighborhood/area: Areas will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has different prices than Albuquerque, in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.
The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the torque convert. For example, an Audi torque converter replacement can typically start at $1,000 and go above $2,000.

Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

Have you noticed any unusual jerking or hesitation when you shift gears or accelerate?

If the torque converter is failing, it may cause the vehicle to jerk or hesitate when shifting between gears or accelerating. This happens because the torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission, and any issue with its functioning can lead to delayed or rough shifts, causing an uncomfortable driving experience.

Is your car experiencing a delay in acceleration or feeling like it’s struggling to move when you press the gas pedal?

A faulty torque converter can cause delays in acceleration or make the vehicle feel sluggish because it’s not properly transferring engine power to the transmission. This results in the car struggling to move, especially during initial acceleration or when trying to increase speed.

Do you hear any strange noises like grinding, whining, or buzzing coming from the engine or transmission while driving?

Unusual noises like grinding, whining, or buzzing often indicate an issue with the torque converter. These sounds may be caused by internal components of the converter malfunctioning, such as worn-out bearings or a malfunctioning turbine, which can affect its ability to function smoothly.

Has the vehicle been overheating or showing signs of the engine temperature rising higher than normal?

When the torque converter is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission fluid to overheat due to improper fluid circulation. Overheating of the fluid can lead to the engine temperature rising and even cause the transmission to fail, making the vehicle unsafe to drive.

Have you noticed any fluid leaks under the car, especially near the transmission area?

A faulty torque converter can cause transmission fluid leaks, as the seals inside the converter may wear out or become damaged. Leaking fluid near the transmission is a sign that the torque converter might not be sealing properly, leading to fluid loss and potential damage to the transmission if not addressed quickly.

Does the vehicle stall, especially when stopping or coming to a complete stop?

Stalling when stopping or coming to a complete stop can be a sign of a failing torque converter. If the torque converter isn’t engaging or disengaging correctly, it can cause the engine to stall due to a lack of power transfer, especially when the vehicle is in gear or at idle.

What is a torque converter, and what does it do?

A torque converter is a part of an automatic transmission that transfers power from the engine to the transmission. It allows the car to come to a stop without stalling and helps with smooth acceleration.

What are the symptoms of a bad torque converter?

Common signs of a failing torque converter include:

Slipping transmission (engine revs, but car doesn’t accelerate properly)
Shuddering or shaking when driving at certain speeds
Delayed or rough shifting
Overheating transmission
Unusual noises like whining, grinding, or rattling
Poor fuel efficiency

How much does torque converter replacement cost?

The cost depends on the vehicle and labor rates. On average:

Parts cost: $150 to $600
Labor cost: $500 to $1,500 (since it requires removing the transmission)
Total cost: $650 to $2,000+

Can I drive with a bad torque converter?

It’s not recommended. A failing torque converter can lead to serious transmission damage, making repairs even more expensive. If you notice symptoms, it’s best to have it checked as soon as possible.

Can a bad torque converter ruin my transmission?

Yes. If left unaddressed, a failing torque converter can cause overheating, excessive wear, and even complete transmission failure.

Is torque converter replacement a big job?

Yes. Since the torque converter is inside the transmission, replacing it usually requires removing the entire transmission, making it a labor-intensive and costly repair.

How long does it take to replace a torque converter?

Depending on the vehicle, it can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours, sometimes longer if other transmission issues are found.

Can a torque converter be repaired instead of replaced?

Sometimes. In some cases, a transmission shop may be able to rebuild or remanufacture a torque converter instead of replacing it, but this depends on the extent of the damage.

How can I prevent torque converter problems?

Keep up with regular transmission fluid changes
Use the correct type of transmission fluid
Avoid towing heavy loads beyond your vehicle’s capacity
Have your transmission checked if you notice any slipping or unusual behavior

Where can I get my torque converter replaced?

Most transmission shops, dealerships, and general auto repair shops can handle the replacement. It’s a complex job, so it’s best to go to a shop experienced with transmission repairs.

Are there more costs to consider besides common replacement costs?

Yes, the common replacement costs are expected in any torque converter replacement. But you might get a better-specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

Here are the possible types of service you can get.

“Just” a fix: This means you just need the torque converter replacement and nothing else. The downside is that you might not discover what caused the torque converter to go bad in the first place. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s forcing the torque converter to wear down faster. In this situation, getting a new converter won’t solve the issue, it might just make you return to the shop shortly to replace the torque converter again. Going with this type of service probably won’t have extra costs besides the common ones at first. But it may mean you’ll spend way more than expected if the converter keeps wearing out faster.
Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue causing your torque converter to wear down faster than expected. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

Costs of a long-lasting torque converter fix

In addition to the common replacement costs, a long-lasting replacement has more things that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

Transmission system inspection: A transmission system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of your transmission system that involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.
Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn surrounding and affected components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.
Other systems repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the steering system that are worn out due to bad transmission can cost north of $1,000.

Symptoms of a Failing Torque Converter

When a torque converter goes bad, it’ll make your vehicle act weird, especially during turns and maneuvers. Let’s understand the symptoms of a failing torque converter in more detail:

Slipping Gears – If your car feels like it’s struggling to stay in gear or the RPMs shoot up without a speed increase, the converter might not be transferring power properly.
Shuddering & Vibrations – Does it feel like you're driving over rumble strips at certain speeds? That could be the torque converter clutch (TCC) acting up.
Delayed or Rough Shifting – If shifts feel jerky, delayed, or weirdly soft, the converter might not be providing the right hydraulic pressure.
Overheating Transmission – A failing torque converter can cause excess friction, overheating your transmission. Check for high temperature readings or warning lights.
Weird Noises – Whining, grinding, or even a faint ticking sound when idling could mean internal damage to the converter.
Low Power & Poor Acceleration – If your car feels sluggish even when you're flooring it, the torque converter might not be properly multiplying torque.
Transmission Fluid Issues – Burnt-smelling, dirty, or low transmission fluid can indicate internal wear or a leak related to the torque converter.

What’s at risk with a faulty torque converter?

Some other car parts that work together with the torque converter will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the torque converter isn’t dealt with quickly:

Transmission – $1,500 to $4,000
Flywheel – $500 to $1,200
Clutch – $500 to $1,500
Input Shaft – $400 to $1,200
Transmission Cooler – $300 to $800
Transmission Pump – $600 to $1,500
Fluid Lines – $150 to $500
Valve Body – $500 to $1,000
Seal and Gaskets – $200 to $500

You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with a faulty torque converter. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

Transmission Failure – A malfunctioning torque converter can lead to damage in the transmission system due to erratic or insufficient fluid pressure. A complete transmission failure while driving can leave you stranded or, worse, cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
Unexpected Stalling – If the torque converter isn’t properly engaging or disengaging, it can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving. This is especially dangerous when it happens in high-traffic areas or on highways where quick acceleration or merging is needed.
Loss of Vehicle Control – A faulty torque converter can cause erratic acceleration or jerking movements, making it difficult to control the vehicle. This may lead to swerving or sudden stops, increasing the risk of an accident.
Overheating – If the torque converter isn’t functioning properly, it can cause the transmission to overheat. An overheated transmission can fail or cause the vehicle to lose power, leaving you in a hazardous situation, especially in stop-and-go traffic or during long drives.
Fluid Leaks and Fire Hazard – A damaged torque converter may lead to fluid leaks, and if the fluid leaks onto hot engine components, it can pose a fire risk. This could quickly escalate, creating dangerous conditions for you and others on the road.
Increased Brake Wear – A faulty torque converter can put extra strain on the braking system, causing the vehicle to drag or decelerate slowly. This can lead to increased wear on the brakes, resulting in reduced braking efficiency and a higher risk of accidents.

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Pinpoint the Issue

Have you noticed any unusual jerking or hesitation when you shift gears or accelerate?

If the torque converter is failing, it may cause the vehicle to jerk or hesitate when shifting between gears or accelerating. This happens because the torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission, and any issue with its functioning can lead to delayed or rough shifts, causing an uncomfortable driving experience.
Is your car experiencing a delay in acceleration or feeling like it’s struggling to move when you press the gas pedal?

A faulty torque converter can cause delays in acceleration or make the vehicle feel sluggish because it’s not properly transferring engine power to the transmission. This results in the car struggling to move, especially during initial acceleration or when trying to increase speed.
Do you hear any strange noises like grinding, whining, or buzzing coming from the engine or transmission while driving?

Unusual noises like grinding, whining, or buzzing often indicate an issue with the torque converter. These sounds may be caused by internal components of the converter malfunctioning, such as worn-out bearings or a malfunctioning turbine, which can affect its ability to function smoothly.
Has the vehicle been overheating or showing signs of the engine temperature rising higher than normal?

When the torque converter is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission fluid to overheat due to improper fluid circulation. Overheating of the fluid can lead to the engine temperature rising and even cause the transmission to fail, making the vehicle unsafe to drive.
Have you noticed any fluid leaks under the car, especially near the transmission area?

A faulty torque converter can cause transmission fluid leaks, as the seals inside the converter may wear out or become damaged. Leaking fluid near the transmission is a sign that the torque converter might not be sealing properly, leading to fluid loss and potential damage to the transmission if not addressed quickly.
Does the vehicle stall, especially when stopping or coming to a complete stop?

Stalling when stopping or coming to a complete stop can be a sign of a failing torque converter. If the torque converter isn’t engaging or disengaging correctly, it can cause the engine to stall due to a lack of power transfer, especially when the vehicle is in gear or at idle.

FAQ on Torque Converter Replacement

What is a torque converter, and what does it do?

A torque converter is a part of an automatic transmission that transfers power from the engine to the transmission. It allows the car to come to a stop without stalling and helps with smooth acceleration.
What are the symptoms of a bad torque converter?
Common signs of a failing torque converter include:
- Slipping transmission (engine revs, but car doesn’t accelerate properly)
- Shuddering or shaking when driving at certain speeds
- Delayed or rough shifting
- Overheating transmission
- Unusual noises like whining, grinding, or rattling
- Poor fuel efficiency
How much does torque converter replacement cost?
The cost depends on the vehicle and labor rates. On average:
- Parts cost: $150 to $600
- Labor cost: $500 to $1,500 (since it requires removing the transmission)
- Total cost: $650 to $2,000+
Can I drive with a bad torque converter?

It’s not recommended. A failing torque converter can lead to serious transmission damage, making repairs even more expensive. If you notice symptoms, it’s best to have it checked as soon as possible.
Can a bad torque converter ruin my transmission?

Yes. If left unaddressed, a failing torque converter can cause overheating, excessive wear, and even complete transmission failure.
Is torque converter replacement a big job?

Yes. Since the torque converter is inside the transmission, replacing it usually requires removing the entire transmission, making it a labor-intensive and costly repair.
How long does it take to replace a torque converter?

Depending on the vehicle, it can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours, sometimes longer if other transmission issues are found.
Can a torque converter be repaired instead of replaced?

Sometimes. In some cases, a transmission shop may be able to rebuild or remanufacture a torque converter instead of replacing it, but this depends on the extent of the damage.
How can I prevent torque converter problems?
- Keep up with regular transmission fluid changes
- Use the correct type of transmission fluid
- Avoid towing heavy loads beyond your vehicle’s capacity
- Have your transmission checked if you notice any slipping or unusual behavior
Where can I get my torque converter replaced?

Most transmission shops, dealerships, and general auto repair shops can handle the replacement. It’s a complex job, so it’s best to go to a shop experienced with transmission repairs.

Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

How to get transparent long-lasting repairs

If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the torque converter replacement, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

The solution for the root cause of your torque converter being damaged is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform a transmission system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your torque converter’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

Let’s see an example of a transmission system investigation because of a faulty torque converter.

A Transparent, Long-lasting Torque Converter Repair Example

A complete transmission system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all transmission components (transmission lines, gears, modules, connectors, etc.) work as expected.

For instance, if a shop is requested to do a transmission system inspection due to a faulty torque converter, the mechanics will look through each torque-related component, even getting to the transmission-engine parts.

They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if something overstressed or damaged the torque converter. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify a culprit causing extra stress on the torque converter.

DIY Torque Converter Replacement: A Good Idea?

The torque converter is a very heavy, intricate, and complex part of your vehicle’s transmission; it’s difficult to get to, you’ll probably need to disassemble some stuff around it, and you’ll be working with sharp, small components. So, it’s a tricky DIY idea, to say the least.

Replacing a torque converter also leaves a mess if you’re not working in a proper place with the right tools.

Safety: Reaching for the torque converter might mean getting under the vehicle and disassembling heavy parts like the driveshaft, U-joints, shift linkage, wirings, cables, etc. This means you’ll risk hurting hands, arms, eyes, and face. So, you’ll ned protective gear for that.

Risk of damage: By doing this service yourself, you might risk damaging parts that require extra care to handle. For instance, if you don’t set up everything properly, you’ll be in line for a complete transmission failure.

Mess and time: Disassembling the U-joints, connectors, wirings, driveline, shift linkage, etc., is time-consuming and messy. The transmission runs fluid and lubricant in all of these parts; by removing these parts, fluid escapes, leaving a mess in the area if you didn’t protect the floor. Plus, you’ll need to assemble all the components back and replenish the fluid you’ve lost. Even with proper tools and experience, this can take around 6 hours to complete.

Replacing the Torque Converter DIY

But, say you’ve made your peace that you’ll do the torque replacement yourself; after all, it IS possible to do it by following proper instructions. Maybe you’re already handy with automotive care and want to understand how a DIY torque converter replacement works. Then you might need to note down a few essential steps.

1. Prepare the Vehicle

Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues.
Secure the rear wheels with wheel chocks.

2. Drain the Transmission Fluid

Place a drain pan under the transmission.
Remove the transmission fluid drain plug or pan bolts.
Allow all fluid to drain, then reinstall the drain plug if applicable.

3. Remove the Driveshaft

Mark the driveshaft and differential yoke to ensure proper reinstallation.
Remove the U-joint bolts or flange bolts.
Carefully slide the driveshaft out of the transmission and set it aside.

4. Disconnect Linkages and Wiring

Remove the shift linkage or cable.
Disconnect electrical connectors related to the transmission.
If the vehicle has a cooler line, disconnect it and plug the openings to prevent contamination.

5. Support and Remove the Transmission

Place a transmission jack under the transmission for support.
Loosen and remove the bellhousing bolts, leaving a couple of bolts in place until the transmission is fully supported.
Carefully lower the transmission jack and slide the transmission back to clear the torque converter.

6. Remove the Old Torque Converter

Rotate the torque converter to access the mounting bolts.
Remove the bolts securing it to the flex plate.
Carefully pull the old torque converter off the transmission input shaft.

7. Install the New Torque Converter

Fill the new torque converter with transmission fluid before installation.
Align the splines and carefully slide it onto the transmission input shaft.
Rotate the torque converter while pushing it inward until it fully seats.

8. Reinstall the Transmission

Align the transmission with the engine and push it forward.
Secure it with the bellhousing bolts, tightening them in a crisscross pattern.
Reconnect the shift linkage, electrical connectors, and cooler lines.

9. Reattach the Driveshaft

Slide the driveshaft back into the transmission.
Align the markings and secure them with the bolts.

10. Refill Transmission Fluid and Reconnect the Battery

Refill the transmission with the correct type and amount of fluid.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

11. Test the Vehicle

Start the engine and let it idle in neutral.
Check for leaks and verify the fluid level.
Shift through all gears to ensure smooth operation.
Take a short test drive to confirm the transmission is working properly.

Torque Converter: Repair or Replacement?

Can the torque converter be repaired instead of replaced? Which is cheaper, and which is the best option in the long run? In short, a torque converter repair would fix the problems of the old torque converter. A replacement, on the other hand, is completely swapping the old part with a new one. Let’s discuss this in more detail.

Torque Converter Repair

Repairing the torque converter is ideal if you want to have an effective solution on a budget. But, watch out, this is only possible if the torque converter has minor damage, like a small leak or regular wear.

The problem with repairing the converter is that if there is underlying damage, the transmission won’t be as efficient and reliable as it was before. Plus, the torque converter comes with all sorts of small components. Therefore, even if the torque converter itself is good, the surrounding components that belong to it might be too worn and need a replacement anyway.

Torque Converter Replacement

Replacing the torque converter doesn’t come cheap, but it definitely kills the problem. It’s recommended to replace the converter instead of repairing it if the part is too damaged or the vehicle has an obscene mileage count.

Replacing is expensive and might be an overstep in some cases. However, it gives you peace of mind: Your vehicle’s transmission system will not have performance issues or sudden surprises. You might also notice the drive getting smoother and more comfortable after a replacement.

The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

This method focuses on two things:

Does the shop have a modern DVI?
Does the shop have certifications?

What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, It’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it. The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition.

The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

A DVI helps with a torque converter replacement

The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (transmission lines, transmission modules, fluid levels, gears, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

Here are some important things about a DVI:

It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s component’s surface, searching for obvious problem signs.
It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.
It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

If they spot torque converter issues, they’ll take photos of them and edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic used a scanning tool and found that the torque converter was the culprit behind the transmission's shuddering and slipping gears.

Torque converter malfunction

A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future.

In this case, they’ll see a torque converter replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

Certifications that help you

Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.