Transmission · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0741: Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
P0741 means the transmission computer commanded the torque converter clutch to lock, but measured converter slip shows it did not engage as expected or is slipping.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0741 sets
The powertrain or transmission control module (PCM/TCM) compares engine speed with transmission input or turbine speed while the torque converter clutch (TCC) is commanded on. If the difference, called converter slip, stays higher than expected, the module concludes the clutch is not applying properly and sets P0741. Slip limits and test conditions are manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0741
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Low or degraded transmission fluid
- Sticking or worn TCC solenoid
- Worn torque converter clutch lining
- Worn or sticking TCC regulator or apply valve in the valve body
- Worn valve body bores causing pressure loss
- Faulty input/turbine speed sensor giving a false slip reading
- Outdated module software (some vehicles)
P0741 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Engine speed flares or fluctuates at steady highway speed
- Shudder felt during light acceleration around lockup speed
- Reduced fuel economy
- Transmission running hot
How P0741 is diagnosed
- Check transmission fluid level and condition; note burnt smell or debris.
- Scan for related codes and review freeze frame for speed, load, and fluid temperature.
- Watch live data for commanded TCC state versus actual converter slip during a road test.
- Check for technical service bulletins or software updates for the vehicle.
- Test TCC solenoid resistance and operation; inspect the solenoid screen if accessible.
- If the solenoid and fluid are good, perform pressure testing and valve body inspection.
Typical fixes for P0741
- Correct the fluid level or service the fluid and filter
- Replace the TCC solenoid
- Repair or replace the valve body or TCC regulator valve
- Update PCM/TCM software if a bulletin applies
- Replace the torque converter if the clutch lining is worn
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Commonly reported on various GM rear- and front-wheel-drive automatics, where worn valve bores and TCC solenoid issues are a known pattern. Definitions can vary by manufacturer; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0741 FAQ
What does code P0741 mean?
P0741 means the transmission computer commanded the torque converter clutch to lock, but measured converter slip shows it did not engage as expected or is slipping. The standard definition is "Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Circuit Performance/Stuck Off."
Can I drive with a P0741 code?
In most cases yes for a short period, but it should not be ignored. A slipping converter clutch builds heat and can contaminate the fluid, which may damage the transmission if driving continues for weeks.
Will a fluid change fix P0741?
Sometimes, especially when the fluid is old or low, but a fluid change does not repair a worn solenoid, valve body, or converter. Fluid service on a high-mileage unit should be done with care and per factory guidance.
What does torque converter shudder feel like?
It often feels like driving over rumble strips under light throttle at moderate speed, and it usually disappears when the clutch fully locks or unlocks.
Keep researching
More transmission codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.