2024-2025 Buick Envista Torque Converter: Shudder, Humming Noises, and TSB Fixes
This guide covers the known torque converter shudder and noise issues, official GM service bulletin repairs, and how to buy a reliable used replacement for your 2024-2025 Envista.
- A known issue for the 2024 Envista is a shudder or humming noise between 28-53 mph, addressed by GM Technical Service Bulletin 24-NA-020.
- Replacement is a major, 5/5 difficulty job requiring transmission removal; it is not recommended for DIY. Labor costs will be the biggest part of the repair bill.
- The OEM part number is 24042053, and a new unit is surprisingly affordable at around $200-$330.
- Driving with a bad torque converter is not recommended as it can cause catastrophic transmission damage and poses a safety risk if the vehicle stalls.
Known Issues for 2024-2025 Buick Envista Torque Converters
As a relatively new vehicle, long-term reliability data for the Buick Envista is still emerging. However, General Motors has already issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that directly addresses a problem with the torque converter in some 2024 models.
Technical Service Bulletin 24-NA-020: Humming, Growling, or Shuddering
Some owners may experience a distinct set of symptoms related to a faulty torque converter. GM has officially acknowledged this with a specific repair procedure for dealerships.
- Symptom: A humming or growling noise is heard while driving at steady speeds, typically between 28-53 mph (45-85 km/h).
- Symptom: A shuddering or vibration that feels like driving over rumble strips, occurring at the same speeds.
- Cause: GM has identified the cause as an "internal torque converter failure, causing higher slipping."
- Solution: The official fix is to replace the entire torque converter assembly with a new unit, part number 24042053. The labor time for this warranty repair is listed at 7.6 hours.
Pro Tip: If your Envista is under warranty and you experience these exact symptoms, mention TSB #24-NA-020 to your dealership service advisor. This can help expedite the diagnostic and repair process.
Recalls and Other Issues
As of mid-2024, there are no safety recalls specifically for the torque converter on the 2024-2025 Buick Envista. One recall (NHTSA #23V744000) exists for the 2024 model, but it concerns a software issue that could cause the instrument panel to go blank and is unrelated to the transmission. Some owners on forums have reported general transmission lag or hesitation, but the most documented, actionable issue remains the one detailed in the TSB.
Symptoms of a Failing Torque Converter
While the TSB covers a specific noise and shudder, a failing torque converter can manifest in several ways. Watch out for these common signs.
1. Shuddering or Vibrations
This is the most common symptom. It can feel like driving over a rough patch of road or rumble strips. It often happens at steady cruising speeds as the internal lock-up clutch struggles to engage or stay engaged properly. In the Envista, this is known to occur between 28 and 53 mph.
2. Abnormal Noises
Whirring, humming, or grinding sounds coming from the front of the transmission are a bad sign. A humming or growl is a specific symptom noted in the GM service bulletin for the Envista. More severe grinding or clacking noises could indicate that internal metal components, like needle bearings, have failed.
3. Transmission Slipping and Poor Acceleration
If the torque converter is failing internally, it may not transfer power effectively. You might notice the engine RPMs flare up without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This can feel like the transmission is slipping out of gear. One owner reported acceleration trouble before a torque converter replacement.
4. Stalling When Coming to a Stop
The torque converter is supposed to slip when you're stopped, allowing the engine to idle while in gear. If the lock-up clutch fails to disengage, it can cause the engine to stall as you brake to a stop, similar to stopping a manual car without pressing the clutch.
5. Overheating Transmission
A failing torque converter can generate excessive heat due to internal slippage or damaged components. This can cause the transmission fluid to break down, leading to further damage. While your Envista may not have a dedicated transmission temperature gauge, a warning light may illuminate, or you might notice a burning smell.
Buying a Used Torque Converter for Your Envista
Since the 2024-2025 Envista is so new, any used torque converter available will likely come from a very low-mileage vehicle that was totaled in an accident. This can be an excellent way to get a nearly-new OEM part for a fraction of the price.
What to Check Before You Buy
- Verify the Part Number: The correct OEM part number for the 2024-2025 Envista torque converter is 24042053. Ensure the part you are buying matches this number exactly.
- Inspect the Hub: The hub is the machined snout that inserts into the transmission's front pump. Check it for any deep scratches, grooves, or burrs. A damaged hub can ruin a brand new transmission pump seal, causing a major leak.
- Check the Stator: Reach inside the splined center of the converter. You should be able to spin the internal stator clutch freely in one direction but it should lock up completely in the other. If it spins both ways or not at all, the converter is bad.
- Look for Leaks or Damage: Inspect the welded seams around the converter's body for any signs of fluid leakage. Check the mounting studs or bolt holes to ensure the threads are clean and not stripped.
- Ask About Mileage: Always ask the seller for the mileage of the donor vehicle. For a part like this, lower is always better. Anything under 30,000 miles is a great find.
Warning: Never install a used torque converter without first flushing it with fresh, clean automatic transmission fluid. Also, ensure the transmission cooler and lines are thoroughly flushed to remove any debris from the previous transmission failure.
Replacement Cost Breakdown
Replacing a torque converter is a labor-intensive job that requires removing the entire transmission. The cost of the part itself is surprisingly low, but labor will be the largest part of your bill.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM Torque Converter | $200 - $330 | Part number 24042053. Often includes a $100 core charge, refunded when you return the old part. |
| Used OEM Torque Converter | $75 - $150 | Sourced from low-mileage wrecked vehicles. Prices vary by seller. |
| Shop Labor | $900 - $1,600 | Based on 7-9 hours of labor at a rate of $120-$180/hour. The official GM TSB allows 7.6 hours for the job. |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,100 - $1,930 | This includes a new OEM part, fluid, and professional installation. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to drive my Envista with a bad torque converter?
It is not recommended. While you might be able to drive for a short time, a failing torque converter can send metal debris throughout your entire transmission, causing catastrophic failure that is much more expensive to fix. Symptoms like stalling also pose a direct safety risk.
Can I replace the torque converter myself?
This is not a beginner-friendly job. It requires removing the entire transmission from the vehicle, which involves disconnecting driveshafts, electrical connectors, cooling lines, and engine mounts. It requires specialized tools, a vehicle lift, and a high level of mechanical skill. For most people, this is a job for a professional shop. The installation difficulty is 5 out of 5.
Does the new torque converter need to be programmed?
No, the torque converter itself is a mechanical/hydraulic part and does not require programming. However, after the transmission is reinstalled, the shop may need to perform a transmission fluid level check and potentially reset any adaptive learning values within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) using a scan tool.
What transmission fluid does the 2024-2025 Buick Envista use?
The Buick Envista with the 6-speed 6T40 automatic transmission requires a fluid that meets the DEXRON-VI specification. Always use a fluid that explicitly meets this standard to ensure proper transmission function and longevity.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 24042053
Fits 2024-2025 Buick Envista with 1.2L 3-cylinder engine and 6-speed (6T40) automatic transmission.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Envista:
- Known Issues for 2024-2025 Buick Envista Torque Converters
- Technical Service Bulletin 24-NA-020: Humming, Growling, or Shuddering
- Recalls and Other Issues
- Symptoms of a Failing Torque Converter
- 1. Shuddering or Vibrations
- 2. Abnormal Noises
- 3. Transmission Slipping and Poor Acceleration
- 4. Stalling When Coming to a Stop
- 5. Overheating Transmission
- Buying a Used Torque Converter for Your Envista
- What to Check Before You Buy
- Replacement Cost Breakdown
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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