P0741 code meaning
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0741 means
P0741 means the converter clutch does not lock although commanded – slip stays too high while the circuit is electrically fine. Thresholds: GM's T43 at least 130 rpm for 5 s twice, the 6T70 50 rpm for 5 s three times, Saab's Aisin AF40 over 100 rpm for 2 s, all after two trips; Ford over 100–200 rpm or a speed ratio below 0.93 over five lock-up events; Subaru engine speed more than 9/8 of target for 10.2 s. The module then locks out the clutch, sometimes the top gear, and uses a hot-mode shift pattern. Low or burnt fluid, a worn control valve in the valve body and a glazed converter clutch are the usual causes; Hyundai's 8-speed bulletin calls for a new converter.
P0741 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 10 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0741
- Check engine light or transmission warning
- Higher engine speed when cruising, 'rubber band' feel
- Higher consumption, rising fluid temperature
- Possibly shudder when the clutch applies
Common causes of P0741
- Most likelyFluid level too low, old or burnt fluid
- Most likelyConverter clutch control valve worn or sticking, bore worn
- PossibleLock-up clutch in the converter worn or glazed
- PossibleSolenoid mechanically sluggish (electrically fine)
- Less likelyLeaking turbine shaft seals or pump
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Torque converter clutch solenoidTorque converterTransmission valve bodyTransmission control module
What each part of P0741 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. |
| 41 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0741 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 P0741
What does P0741 mean?
P0741 means "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off". P0741 means the converter clutch does not lock although commanded – slip stays too high while the circuit is electrically fine. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0741?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0741 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0741 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0741 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 P0741 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 10 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0741 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.