AutoCodes – GMC – P0731 GMC

P0731 GMC Code - Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect

Quick Answer

The transmission turbine speed sensor and vehicle speed sensor are hall-effect sensors. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Shift solenoid mechanical fault, Faulty Turbine Sensor. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0731 GMC indicates Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect.
Common causes
Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Shift solenoid mechanical fault, Faulty Turbine Sensor.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 507
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 29, 2022
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Code P0731 GMC Description

The transmission turbine speed sensor and vehicle speed sensor are hall-effect sensors. The turbine speed sensor is mounted to the transmission housing and faces the reluctor attached to the 1-2-3-4-5-6 clutch piston housing. The vehicle speed sensor is mounted to the low and reverse clutch housing on 2WD, or transfer case rear case half on 4WD. The vehicle speed sensor faces a reluctor wheel attached to the transmission output shaft on 2WD, or a reluctor wheel attached to the transfer case rear output shaft on 4WD.
The TCM provides a 9 V reference circuit and a signal circuit to each of the sensors. As the 1-2-3-4-5-6 clutch piston housing and transmission output shaft or transfer case output rotates, the sensors produce a signal frequency based on the teeth on the reluctor wheel. The TCM calculates the transmission gear ratio based on the speed sensor signals and compares the calculated gear ratio to the commanded gear ratio.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the TCM detects the calculated gear ratio with 1st gear commanded differs from the known 1st gear ratio for 2 s.
OBDII Code P0731 GMC - Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect - AutoCodes.com
P0731 GMC Code - Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0731 GMC?

  • Low transmission fluid level
  • Shift solenoid mechanical fault
  • Faulty Turbine Sensor
  • Faulty Output Speed Sensor

How to Fix the DTC P0731 GMC?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0731 GMC code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific GMC Models

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0731 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0731 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P0731 indicates that the transmission control module has detected an incorrect gear ratio in 1st gear.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0731 in a GMC?

Symptoms include transmission slipping, harsh shifting, poor acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency, and the check engine light turning on.

3. What causes the P0731 code to appear in a GMC?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty transmission solenoid, damaged internal transmission components, or issues with the transmission control module.

4. Can driving with a P0731 code damage my GMC?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can cause further damage to the transmission and lead to more costly repairs.

5. How can I fix the P0731 code on my GMC?

Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition, then inspect the transmission solenoids, wiring, and connectors. If necessary, consult a professional to diagnose and repair internal transmission issues.

6. Is low transmission fluid a common cause of P0731 on a GMC?

Yes, low or dirty transmission fluid is one of the most common causes of the P0731 code and should be checked first.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P0731 code on a GMC?

The repair cost varies based on the issue. Fluid replacement may cost under $100, while internal transmission repairs or replacements could exceed $1,000.

8. Can a faulty transmission solenoid trigger the P0731 code in a GMC?

Yes, a malfunctioning solenoid can disrupt proper gear engagement and lead to the P0731 code.

9. Will resetting the check engine light fix the P0731 code on my GMC?

Resetting the light may clear the code temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

10. Do I need a mechanic to fix the P0731 code on my GMC?

While some issues like fluid checks can be done at home, diagnosing and repairing transmission problems often require professional expertise and specialized tools.

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