Transmission · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0745: Pressure Control Solenoid "A"
P0745 means the transmission computer has detected a general fault with pressure control solenoid A, which regulates the hydraulic line pressure used to apply clutches and bands.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0745 sets
The powertrain or transmission control module (PCM/TCM) varies current to the pressure control solenoid (PCS) to set line pressure for each shift and load condition. The module monitors the solenoid circuit and, on some designs, its effect on shift quality. When the circuit or the solenoid response falls outside expected limits, it sets P0745. Which solenoid is labeled A and the test logic are manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0745
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Faulty pressure control solenoid
- Low, dirty, or wrong-type transmission fluid
- Damaged wiring or connector in the solenoid circuit
- Debris restricting the solenoid or valve body passages
- Internal transmission harness fault
- PCM/TCM fault (less common)
P0745 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Harsh, delayed, or soft shifts
- Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- Slipping between gears
- Delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse
How P0745 is diagnosed
- Check fluid level, condition, and that the correct fluid type is used.
- Scan for all codes and freeze frame data; note fluid temperature and gear at the time.
- Inspect the transmission connector and harness for damage or fluid intrusion.
- Measure PCS resistance and compare to factory specification.
- Monitor commanded versus actual pressure or PCS current in live data where supported.
- Perform a line pressure test with a gauge if electrical checks pass.
Typical fixes for P0745
- Replace the pressure control solenoid
- Repair wiring or connector faults
- Service the fluid and filter with the correct fluid
- Repair or replace the valve body or solenoid body
- Reprogram or replace the PCM/TCM if indicated
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
On many Ford transmissions this part is called the electronic pressure control (EPC) solenoid. Definitions can vary by manufacturer; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0745 FAQ
What does code P0745 mean?
P0745 means the transmission computer has detected a general fault with pressure control solenoid A, which regulates the hydraulic line pressure used to apply clutches and bands. The standard definition is "Pressure Control Solenoid "A"."
Can I drive with a P0745 code?
Limit driving. Incorrect line pressure can cause harsh or slipping shifts and many vehicles enter a limp mode, and continued driving with slipping clutches can cause internal damage.
What does pressure control solenoid A do?
It controls hydraulic line pressure inside the transmission so clutches apply firmly without slipping or shifting too harshly. If it fails, shift quality and clutch holding power both suffer.
Is P0745 always the solenoid?
No. Fluid problems, wiring faults, and valve body wear can all set it, so check those before replacing parts.
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.