P0741: TCC Solenoid Circuit Performance / Stuck Off

What is P0741?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0741 means “Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Circuit Performance/Stuck Off.” 

This torque converter clutch circuit code is primarily found in automatic transmission cars. 

The P0741 DTC is triggered when the powertrain control module or the engine control module senses an operational issue with the torque converter clutch circuit (TCC circuit).

For example, the rotational speed of the torque converter and transmission input shaft should be equal when the torque converter lockup engine engages. A difference between the rotational speed of the torque converter and transmission input shaft that’s more than 200 RPM (revolutions per minute) could indicate a problem.

So if the PCM detects a TCC slip, or a TCC that functions erratically or doesn’t engage (stuck off), it will set the code P0741.

Note: Although code P0741 is a generic code, its definition may differ depending on the vehicle manufacturer.

What Is A Torque Converter?

The torque converter is basically a fluid coupling that transfers (and multiplies) rotational force from the engine to the transmission. Also, the torque converter functions as a clutch between the engine and transmission. It prevents stalling when the car is at a halt.

At certain speed levels, the torque converter clutch (inside the converter) forms a mechanical connection between the engine and transmission. The control module operates the torque converter clutch via a solenoid valve or valves.

Using the torque converter lockup clutch enhances fuel economy, lowers engine speed, and decreases the temperature of the transmission fluid.

Note: A solenoid valve is a control unit that shuts off or allows fluid flow, when electrically energized or de-energized.

Common symptoms

Symptoms of the P0741 DTC (implying a torque converter clutch circuit performance issue) will depend on your car’s make and model and the severity of the problem.

Here’s a quick list of P0741 signs that you may notice:

• Illuminated check engine light or service engine light
• Reduced fuel economy (higher fuel consumption)
• Flashing overdrive light
• Transmission slip or harsh shift
• Overheating transmission (sometimes called trans)
• The car can’t shift into high gear (while at high speed)
• Increased engine RPMs
• The car won’t move when in gear
• Shuddering throughout the car at a certain vehicle speed or speed levels
• Symptoms resembling a misfire
• The car may stall (after driving at high speed) or won’t run at a high vehicle speed

On rare occasions, there may be no detectable symptoms of a “torque converter clutch circuit performance or stuck off” code.

Can I still drive?

The DTC P0741 is extremely serious. So when triggered, seek immediate help from a certified professional.

Your car may or may not display any performance issues, but a faulty torque converter can add excessive stress to your transmission system, causing irreparable damage.

If you continue to drive with a faulty torque converter, you may have to replace it entirely, which can be quite expensive.

P0741 causes

Here are some of the most common causes of DTC P0741.

Torque converter-related issues:

• Malfunctioning torque converter or clutch assembly
• Defective torque converter lockup solenoid (also called the torque converter clutch solenoid or TCC solenoid)
• Short circuit occurring in the TCC solenoid
• Problems with the torque converter clutch circuit, such as damaged wiring or loose connections
• Worn valve body
• A flawed sensor inhibiting TCC lockup (on electrically controlled TCC systems)

Transmission-related issues:

• Low or dirty transmission fluid
• Restricted hydraulic passages from dirty transmission fluid
• Contaminated transmission filter
• Damage to the wiring harness to the transmission
• Internal transmission failure
• Failed Transmission Control Module

Other issues:

• Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
• Issues with the powertrain control module, such as software in need of an update

Diagnosis

Diagnosing and testing the torque converter clutch system requires advanced tools and skills. 

Here’s how a professional technician will go about checking the P0741 code:

• First, they’ll use an OBD-II scanner to identify every diagnostic trouble code your PCM is storing. The powertrain control module also stores freeze frame data that your mechanic will need — to understand the conditions present when the trouble code was first set.
• Next, they’ll clear codes and perform a test drive to see if the P0741 code returns, and if the check engine light (or service engine light) turns back on. If the engine light is gone, then you’re good to go. If the P0741 DTC persists, your mechanic will continue the diagnosis.
• For a persistent DTC P0741, your mechanic will inspect the transmission wiring harness for damage and loose connections. They’ll also check the transmission fuses or relays (if applicable to your car.)
• Next, they’ll check the transmission internal wiring harness for shorts to ground at the torque converter clutch solenoid. The mechanic will repair the wiring or replace the solenoid If there’s a short.

If the wiring to the TCC solenoid and the TCM is in good condition, then an advanced scan tool will show your mechanic when the:

• TCC solenoid is activating the torque converter
• And when the torque converter is operating

Possible repairs for P0741 & Costs

The P0741 code can illuminate the check engine light for several issues, so your mechanic may need to conduct one or more of the following repairs:

• Replace the torque converter lockup solenoid (clutch solenoid)
• Replace the torque converter or clutch
• Replace the valve body
• Change the transmission fluid and filter
• Mend damaged wiring to the transmission wiring harness
• Replace the transmission control module solenoid
• Fix damaged wiring to the transmission control module solenoid
• Replacing the transmission (in some cases) 
• Install a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission
• Replace the ECT sensor
• Replace the transmission control module (TCM) or engine control module (ECM)