Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P0746 Pressure Control Solenoid A Performance/Stuck Off

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Pressure control solenoid A sets line or clutch pressure by current; most are 'normally high', so with no current – as in limp mode – maximum pressure applies. 'A' is usually the line pressure valve, on GM clutch-to-clutch transmissions (6T, 8L, 9T) the pressure valve of clutch 1. Ford does not use P0745–P0749 but P0960–P0963. P0746 means the valve is electrically fine but the commanded pressure does not build. GM's clutch-to-clutch units detect it as slip: 400 rpm or more for 1.5 s (T87), or clutch 1 slip over 200 rpm for 3 s three times (9-speed), after one trip; Allison when the oncoming clutch does not apply. Mitsubishi's dual-clutch flags 500 mA current deviation. Slipping or flaring on shifts, a missed gear and limp mode follow; GM's 9-speed bulletin checks clutch plates and replaces the valve body.

Likely causes

Pressure valve or spool worn or dirty
Fluid level too low, burnt fluid, clogged filter
Clutch plates or piston seals of the affected clutch worn
Line pressure too low (pump, main regulator)
Learned values missing after repair

Symptoms

  • Slipping or engine flare on shifts
  • Gear not reached, limp mode in a fixed gear
  • Check engine light or transmission warning

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€400–4,000
Time2–12 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

pressure control solenoid atransmission valve bodytransmission wiringtransmission control module

Related codes

P0745P0747P0748P0776P0960P0961

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, mitsubishitechinfo.com.