dealer says i need new torque convertor how do i know van was running great?

Answer 1

Get a second opinion.

Answer 2

You do need a second opinion but it is possible for a vehicle to operate very well and need a new torque convertor. The torque convertor in many new vehicles is equipped with a clutch internally for lockup in overdrive. Unfortunately this clutch can wear (which is why you never use overdrive while towing). When teh clutch wears it will slip and the engine control computer will detect that as a failure although it may not be perceptable to the driver until the slipping is so bad that it stops engaging completely. The dealer will read your engine failure codes and it will tell them if the torque convertor is slipping. Get a second opinion but don't discount the fact that the dealer may very well be telling the truth. Unfortunately I could not find you any references of any use beyond this one: http://autorepair.about.com/library/glossary/bldef-259.htm Good luck, Hawkrod

Answer 3

i own a repair shop,and the torque converter has to do with the transmission,,if it was shifting alright in it,,id take it some where and have it checked out real good,,they should know what there talking about with it,but you never know these days with mechanics,,a lot of the mechanics are fresh out of school and lack experience,,that comes with time,,and the only way you get his is a lot of years on the job,but they could be right,,if your not noticing any difference in the driving of it,,id take it to a transmission shop,and have them drive it,,and see what they tell you,and don't tell them you went to the dealer,,this way they wont know,,good luck with it,i hope this help,s.,,have a good x-mas.

Answer 4

You don't say what's wrong. If it's a diesel and makes noise idling, its the converter, if it's a car and has a shudder the oil needs to be changed.

Answer 5

sometimes when that goes out the car will stall especially after it warms up it is not part of the engine but part of the transmission and sometimes when it wears out the ''lockout ''will malfunction when you are slowing down the lockout will remain causing stalling

Answer 6

Take it somewhere else and get another opinion. Service departments are supposed to "up-sell" everyone who comes into service. It is possible it could use one but one may not be required at this time.