What Does P0742 Mean?
The torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit is showing a performance issue or the TCC is stuck in the engaged (on) position. When the TCC remains locked at low speeds or during deceleration, the engine can stall when coming to a stop, similar to driving a manual transmission without pressing the clutch. This is a potentially dangerous condition.
Safety Warning
A stuck-on TCC can cause the engine to stall when coming to a stop, resulting in loss of power steering and power brakes. This is a significant safety hazard, especially in traffic. Do not drive the vehicle until repaired.
Common Causes
30%
TCC solenoid stuck in the apply position (mechanically stuck or electrically latched)
25%
Valve body — TCC apply valve stuck in the applied position
20%
Wiring short to power in the TCC solenoid circuit keeping it constantly energized
15%
Contaminated transmission fluid causing debris to hold valve or solenoid in apply position
10%
TCM/PCM software or calibration issue commanding TCC on at inappropriate times
Diagnostic Steps
1
Monitor TCC commanded state vs. actual engagement during deceleration — if TCC stays locked below its normal release speed, confirm the stuck-on condition.
2
Check for engine stalling or near-stalling when coming to a stop — this is the hallmark symptom of a stuck-on TCC.
3
Measure TCC solenoid resistance and check for a wiring short to power that could keep the solenoid energized.
4
Inspect transmission fluid for contamination (metal debris, clutch material) that could jam the TCC apply valve.
5
Perform a valve body inspection focusing on the TCC apply and release circuits for stuck valves or debris.
Estimated Repair Cost
$300 - $2,800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit is showing a performance issue or the TCC is stuck in the engaged (on) position. When the TCC remains locked at low speeds or during deceleration, the engine can stall when coming to a stop, similar to driving a manual transmission without pressing the clutc...
The most common cause of P0742 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance or Stuck Off) is: TCC solenoid stuck in the apply position (mechanically stuck or electrically latched)
Typical repair costs for P0742 range from $300 to $2,800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
A stuck-on TCC can cause the engine to stall when coming to a stop, resulting in loss of power steering and power brakes. This is a significant safety hazard, especially in traffic. Do not drive the vehicle until repaired.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0742 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automatic Transmission — Torque Converter
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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