Lexus UX torque converter failure

Alright, gearheads, I'm tearing my hair out. My 2023 Lexus UX, gasoline engine, is giving me fits at 157682 km. The check engine light and transmission indicator light are both on, and it's shifting like a drunken sailor – slipping, shifting hard, and making some truly awful grinding noises. I've got an error stored in the memory pointing to a defective torque converter lock-up clutch. I'm pretty sure it's the automatic transmission converter itself that's borked. Anyone else seen this kinda thing?

4 comment(s)

Sounds rough. Had a similar issue with my old Volvo XC60, although it was a diesel. Those symptoms – lights, slipping, grinding – are classic torque converter problems. Did you check the transmission fluid level and condition? Low or burnt fluid can cause these issues. A torque converter is basically a fluid coupling that allows the engine to spin somewhat independently of the transmission at lower speeds, when it fails, your gearbox is in deep trouble.

Yeah, I did check the fluid. It's at the right level, but it's definitely darker than it should be, almost burnt-smelling, so I am afraid it’s contamination from the clutch. Did your Volvo throw the same error codes? Was it definitely the torque converter in your case? I am starting to lose hope and afraid of the repair cost…

Dark fluid is a bad sign. Yes, my Volvo threw similar codes, and after some head-scratching, it turned out to be the torque converter. Given your symptoms and the fluid condition, I'd bet that's your culprit, too. Best to get it checked by a shop, as it might cause even more damage down the line. I would avoid driving if you can.

Thanks, I appreciate the insight. Just got back from the shop – they confirmed it's the torque converter. Quoted me 2120€ for the repair. Ouch! But at least I know what it is now. Thanks for the confirmation, wouldn’t want to gamble on it.

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