Low or degraded transmission fluid, leading to insufficient hydraulic pressure to apply friction element F; Sticking or faulty shift solenoid or solenoid pack responsible for directing fluid to element F; Worn or damaged friction plates or seals inside the transmission for element F; Valve body wear or contamination causing pressure loss or delayed apply for element F; Internal transmission harness damage or poor electrical connection to the solenoid or sensor; Faulty transmission control module or corrupted adaptive learning values; Mechanical binding in the apply piston or return spring for friction element F

DTC codes / P07xx · Transmission / P07AC

P07ACTransmission Friction Element F Performance/Stuck Off

Q: What does code P07AC mean?

Transmission Friction Element F Performance/Stuck Off. P07AC indicates that the transmission control module has detected a performance problem with friction element F, meaning the clutch or brake that element F controls is not applying or releasing as commanded. The computer typically compares engine speed, turbine speed, output speed, and commanded gear to infer that the element is slipping or stuck in the off position, failing to hold the gear ratio it should.

P07AC indicates that the transmission control module has detected a performance problem with friction element F, meaning the clutch or brake that element F controls is not applying or releasing as commanded. The computer typically compares engine speed, turbine speed, output speed, and commanded gear to infer that the element is slipping or stuck in the off position, failing to hold the gear ratio it should.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityHigh

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

Illuminated check engine light or transmission warning light, often with no other noticeable symptoms at first
Harsh or delayed shifts, especially when the affected gear is engaged or disengaged
Transmission slipping or flaring between gears, with engine speed rising without corresponding vehicle acceleration
Failure to engage a specific gear, causing the vehicle to stay in a lower gear or neutral
Limp-home mode with reduced power and limited gear selection
Poor fuel economy or elevated transmission fluid temperature during prolonged driving

Common causes, most likely first

Low or degraded transmission fluid, leading to insufficient hydraulic pressure to apply friction element F
Sticking or faulty shift solenoid or solenoid pack responsible for directing fluid to element F
Worn or damaged friction plates or seals inside the transmission for element F
Valve body wear or contamination causing pressure loss or delayed apply for element F
Internal transmission harness damage or poor electrical connection to the solenoid or sensor
Faulty transmission control module or corrupted adaptive learning values
Mechanical binding in the apply piston or return spring for friction element F

How to diagnose and fix it

Check transmission fluid level and condition; top off or replace fluid if it is low, dark, or burnt-smelling
Scan all modules for stored and pending codes, and record freeze-frame data to see when P07AC set
Inspect the transmission wiring harness and connectors for chafing, corrosion, or loose pins at the solenoid pack and TCM
Test the shift solenoid or solenoid pack that controls friction element F for resistance and proper operation
Perform a line pressure test and compare with specifications to confirm hydraulic integrity
Clear adaptive learning and perform a relearn drive cycle to see if the code returns
If electrical and hydraulic checks pass, remove the transmission pan to inspect the valve body and friction element F for wear or debris

What P07AC does not always mean

A P07AC code frequently sets because of low fluid level or a clogged filter rather than a failed internal clutch, so always verify fluid condition before condemning the transmission.
Adaptive learning values that have drifted can cause a false P07AC; clearing adaptations and performing a relearn drive cycle often resolves the code without any parts replacement.
A faulty output speed sensor or turbine speed sensor can mimic a friction element performance fault because the TCM relies on those inputs to calculate slip, so check sensor signals before internal repairs.
The code can be set by a sticking valve body spool valve that is accessible after removing the pan, making it a far cheaper repair than replacing the entire transmission.
Some vehicles set P07AC only after a cold start or during a specific shift sequence, so a test drive that reproduces the exact conditions is more valuable than a simple code clear.

Can I keep driving with P07AC?

Driving with P07AC is not recommended because the transmission may slip, fail to engage a gear, or enter limp mode without warning, which can leave you stranded or cause further internal damage. If you must move the vehicle, drive slowly and avoid heavy acceleration or towing, and have it diagnosed by a transmission specialist as soon as possible.

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.