Transmission

P0746 — Pressure Control Solenoid Performance or Stuck Off

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P0746 means

The transmission control module commands the pressure control solenoid to set a specific line pressure, then compares it with actual pressure and clutch slip data. P0746 sets when the real pressure does not match the command, or the solenoid is stuck off. Line pressure controls how hard the clutches clamp, so it affects shift quality and holding power.

Symptoms

  • Harsh, delayed or weak shifts
  • Transmission slipping, with RPM rising without acceleration
  • Car will not move or loses a gear
  • Limp mode stuck in one gear
  • Check Engine or transmission warning light on
  • Hard engagement into Drive or Reverse

Possible causes

  1. Stuck or contaminated pressure control solenoid
  2. Low or degraded automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
  3. Clogged filter or valve body passages
  4. Weak oil pump output
  5. Internal pressure leaks in the valve body or seals
  6. Open, shorted or corroded solenoid wiring or connector
  7. Faulty transmission fluid pressure (TFP) sensor or control module

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze frame data, noting any other transmission codes
  2. Check fluid level and condition: color, smell, metal debris
  3. Inspect the solenoid connector and wiring for damage, moisture and corrosion
  4. Measure solenoid coil resistance and compare with specification
  5. Check power and ground at the solenoid connector
  6. Use a scan tool to compare commanded and actual pressure and run an active test
  7. Measure real line pressure with a gauge
  8. Drop the pan and inspect the filter and valve body for debris and wear

Common fixes

  • Change the ATF and filter per schedule
  • Replace the pressure control solenoid
  • Repair the wiring or connector
  • Clean or rebuild the valve body and replace worn parts
  • Replace the pressure sensor
  • Repair or replace the pump or transmission if internally worn

Questions and answers

What does P0746 mean?

It means the pressure control solenoid in the automatic transmission is not producing the commanded fluid pressure or is stuck. This causes weak shifts and clutch slip.

Can I drive with P0746?

Only briefly and carefully, to get to a shop. Slipping wears the clutches fast and can turn a cheap repair into an expensive one.

Will a fluid change fix P0746?

Sometimes, if the cause is low, dirty fluid or a clogged filter. If the solenoid or valve body is worn, a repair will be needed.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.