P0736 code meaning
Reverse Incorrect Ratio
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0736 means
The transmission module divides input (turbine) speed by output speed and compares the result with the ratio of the commanded gear; a deviation means slip – a clutch or brake not holding, too little pressure – or a wrong gear. Thresholds: Ford more than 30 rpm off for 1.8 s three times (diesel 2023: over 20 % for 12 s), GM's 2006 tables and the Allison 1000 converter slip of 200–230 rpm for 2.25 s after one trip, Saab's Aisin boxes over 20 % twelve times without MIL. P0736 concerns reverse. The check needs reversing under load, so short manoeuvres are often not enough; a 2006 GM table sets it after 2 s of slip above 100 rpm without the diagnostic gear step used for forward gears. Slipping or delayed engagement of reverse, especially uphill, is typical; a worn reverse clutch or low/reverse brake is the usual cause.
P0736 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 14 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0736
- Delayed or slipping engagement of reverse
- No reverse uphill or under load
- Transmission warning, limp mode, check engine light depending on manufacturer
Common causes of P0736
- Most likelyFluid level or condition
- Most likelyReverse clutch or low/reverse brake worn
- PossibleValve body, shift valve or gasket
- Less likelyOil pump or pump cover
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission clutchesTransmission valve bodyTransmission fluidTransmission control module
What each part of P0736 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 36 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0736 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0736
What does P0736 mean?
P0736 means "Reverse Incorrect Ratio". The transmission module divides input (turbine) speed by output speed and compares the result with the ratio of the commanded gear; a deviation means slip – a clutch or brake not holding, too little pressure – or a wrong gear. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0736?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0736 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0736 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0736 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0736 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 14 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0736 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.