What Does P0746 Mean?
Pressure control solenoid A is not performing within specifications or is stuck in the off/low-pressure position. This means the transmission cannot build adequate line pressure for proper clutch and band application. Shifts will be soft, slipping, or delayed, and the transmission may fail to hold gears under load.
Safety Warning
Low transmission line pressure causes slipping shifts and can rapidly burn clutch packs and bands. The transmission may fail completely under heavy load such as towing or climbing grades. Do not drive under load — have it repaired as soon as possible.
Common Causes
30%
Pressure control solenoid A mechanically stuck in the low-pressure position
25%
Worn or contaminated solenoid causing insufficient pressure output
20%
Low or degraded transmission fluid reducing overall system pressure
15%
Valve body bore wear at the pressure regulator allowing pressure bypass
10%
Internal wiring harness issue causing reduced current to the solenoid
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check transmission fluid level and condition — top off or replace if low, dark, or burnt-smelling.
2
Perform a line pressure test at idle and under stall — low readings across the board confirm a pressure regulation problem.
3
Monitor pressure control solenoid A duty cycle and commanded vs. actual line pressure via live data.
4
Measure solenoid resistance and verify the solenoid moves freely — a sticky solenoid will fail performance tests.
5
If solenoid tests good, inspect the valve body for bore wear at the pressure regulator — an aftermarket bore repair sleeve may be available.
Estimated Repair Cost
$300 - $2,500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
Pressure control solenoid A is not performing within specifications or is stuck in the off/low-pressure position. This means the transmission cannot build adequate line pressure for proper clutch and band application. Shifts will be soft, slipping, or delayed, and the transmission may fail to hold g...
The most common cause of P0746 (Pressure Control Solenoid A Performance or Stuck Off) is: Pressure control solenoid A mechanically stuck in the low-pressure position
Typical repair costs for P0746 range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Low transmission line pressure causes slipping shifts and can rapidly burn clutch packs and bands. The transmission may fail completely under heavy load such as towing or climbing grades. Do not drive under load — have it repaired as soon as possible.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0746 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automatic Transmission — Hydraulic Control
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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