Faulty pressure control solenoid 'A' (internally shorted, open, or stuck); Contaminated transmission fluid (dirt, debris, or clutch material) blocking the solenoid valve; Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the solenoid; Low transmission fluid level or degraded fluid; Valve body wear or sticking valves affecting pressure regulation; TCM software issue or internal fault (less common)

DTC codes / P07xx · Transmission / P0746

P0746Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off

Q: What does code P0746 mean?

Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off. P0746 indicates that the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a performance problem with the pressure control solenoid 'A', often described as stuck off. The TCM commands a specific current to the solenoid to regulate hydraulic pressure, but the resulting pressure or solenoid response does not match the expected value, triggering the code.

P0746 indicates that the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a performance problem with the pressure control solenoid 'A', often described as stuck off. The TCM commands a specific current to the solenoid to regulate hydraulic pressure, but the resulting pressure or solenoid response does not match the expected value, triggering the code.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

Harsh or delayed shifts, especially when engaging drive or reverse
Transmission slipping or flaring between gears
The transmission may enter limp mode, sticking in a single gear
Illumination of the check engine light or transmission warning light
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially in early stages
Poor fuel economy or increased engine RPM at highway speeds

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty pressure control solenoid 'A' (internally shorted, open, or stuck)
Contaminated transmission fluid (dirt, debris, or clutch material) blocking the solenoid valve
Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the solenoid
Low transmission fluid level or degraded fluid
Valve body wear or sticking valves affecting pressure regulation
TCM software issue or internal fault (less common)

How to diagnose and fix it

Check transmission fluid level and condition; top off or replace if contaminated
Inspect the solenoid 'A' electrical connector and wiring for damage or corrosion
Use a scan tool to command the solenoid and observe pressure changes; compare to specifications
Measure solenoid resistance and compare to manufacturer's specification
Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement if contamination is suspected
Replace the pressure control solenoid 'A' if electrically faulty or stuck
Reprogram or replace the TCM if all other checks pass and the fault persists

Don't overlook fluid condition and wiring

A sticking solenoid is often caused by contaminated fluid rather than a failed solenoid; skipping a fluid service can lead to repeat failures.
The code can set intermittently due to a poor electrical connection, so wiggle-testing the harness while monitoring live data is a smart first step.
Some vehicles use the same solenoid for multiple pressure control functions, so a failure may affect several shift qualities simultaneously.
A stuck-off solenoid may default to maximum line pressure, causing harsh engagements that feel like a mechanical failure but are electrically driven.
Always verify the TCM has the latest calibration before replacing parts, as software updates can correct false solenoid performance codes.

Can I keep driving with P0746?

You can often drive short distances to a repair shop, but avoid aggressive acceleration or heavy loads because the transmission may slip or shift harshly. If the vehicle enters limp mode or shifting becomes erratic, stop driving and seek professional diagnosis to prevent further damage.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.