This morning while driving, the damn thing wouldn't lock up. The car usually warms up by the time I hit traffic light #3, but I started noticing it around #5 and it finally started working 3-4 lights later. I was cruising at 40mph at 1800 rpm, and 60 at 2200. Wasn't until a couple of minutes later the thing finally decides to work. I am very sure that it is the torque converter because I pressed the od off and the car downshifted. I checked fluid, it is nice and red/pink. Car has only ~33k on it, trans fluid was flushed by nissan dealer at 26k because I felt like doing it.

Ever since I got this car from my dad, I noticed the torque converter has been a little jerky. I figured that was normal because my ford taurus did it too, but my taurus was a piece of ****, so I dont know how much that helps. About a couple of times a day, while braking, as soon as the speedo crosses between 40-35, the car jerks. I figured this was just how the car acts. Am I wrong?

I would like to avoid taking it to the dealer at all costs. My taurus was at the dealer every 3 months for something or another, thats why my parents sold it and gave me the maxima. But my dad got ****ed at me for no reason when the ses went off for the o2's within a week after he gave it to me. The dealer was nice and I had one of the best experiences I have ever had with a dealer, but I know my dad will get ****ed at me, regardless.

 

It did it again this morning when completely cold. Any suggestions?

 

You're covered under the 5 year 60K power train warranty for the transmission. Take it to the dealer and they will fix the problem. Just don't tell dad!

 

Correct me if I am wrong but I believe that it is supposed to be at operating temperature before the torque converter locks up when you hit O/D off. Thus the reason why it locks up once you been driving it.

 

Menacer, didn't know about that. I guess I'll call the dealer and ask him if that is true or not.

cobymoby, hopefully if something is wrong it is covered under the warranty I'll take it in one of these days. Just need to figure out what to do if the dealer needs to keep it for a while.

 

I don't actually know if your torque converter is going bad like you might think it is without looking at it or test driving it. I think it'll be a good idea to call a local dealer or just take it in. Good luck and take care.