What Does P079E Mean?
The TCM has detected slippage in transmission friction element E. This element is not engaging with sufficient force to prevent relative motion between driving and driven components. The slip may occur during specific gear engagements or shifts, and can range from minor flare to significant power loss depending on the severity of wear or pressure deficit.
Safety Warning
Power delivery will be compromised in the gears served by element E. The vehicle may experience unexpected RPM flares or momentary loss of drive. Minimize driving and avoid situations requiring consistent power delivery. Seek immediate repair.
Common Causes
35%
Worn friction element E clutch pack or band material
25%
Degraded or insufficient transmission fluid
15%
Apply piston seal failure or servo leak in element E circuit
15%
Pressure control or shift solenoid fault reducing element E apply pressure
10%
Transmission overheating causing fluid breakdown and reduced friction
Diagnostic Steps
1
Reference the clutch apply chart to identify which gear ratios utilize friction element E.
2
Monitor shaft speed sensor PIDs during operation in those gears to confirm and quantify slip.
3
Check transmission fluid level and condition as the first corrective step.
4
Monitor transmission fluid temperature — overheating above 240F causes rapid fluid breakdown and slip.
5
Perform a pressure test in the affected gears to differentiate between hydraulic and mechanical causes.
6
If pressure is adequate, internal repair or transmission rebuild is required.
Estimated Repair Cost
$300 - $3,500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The TCM has detected slippage in transmission friction element E. This element is not engaging with sufficient force to prevent relative motion between driving and driven components. The slip may occur during specific gear engagements or shifts, and can range from minor flare to significant power lo...
The most common cause of P079E (Transmission Friction Element "E" Slip Detected) is: Worn friction element E clutch pack or band material
Typical repair costs for P079E range from $300 to $3,500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Power delivery will be compromised in the gears served by element E. The vehicle may experience unexpected RPM flares or momentary loss of drive. Minimize driving and avoid situations requiring consistent power delivery. Seek immediate repair.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P079E to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automatic Transmission
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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