AutoCodesNissan – P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - 3rd. Gear Malfunction

Quick Answer

This diagnosis monitors actual gear position by checking the torque converter slip ratio calculated by Transmission Control Module (TCM) as follows: Torque converter slip ratio = A x C/B A: Output shaft revolution signal from revolution sensor B: Engine speed signal from Engine Control Module (ECM) C: Gear ratio determined as gear position which TCM supposes If the actual gear position is higher than the position (3rd) supposed by TCM, the slip ratio will be more than normal. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Shift solenoids. 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
P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates 3rd. Gear Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Shift solenoids.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 3,206
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

This diagnosis monitors actual gear position by checking the torque converter slip ratio calculated by Transmission Control Module (TCM) as follows:
Torque converter slip ratio = A x C/B
A: Output shaft revolution signal from revolution sensor
B: Engine speed signal from Engine Control Module (ECM)
C: Gear ratio determined as gear position which TCM supposes
If the actual gear position is higher than the position (3rd) supposed by TCM, the slip ratio will be more than normal. In case the ratio exceeds the specified value, TCM judges this diagnosis malfunction.
OBDII Code P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan - 3rd. Gear Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - 3rd. Gear Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan?

  • Low transmission fluid level
  • Dirty transmission fluid
  • Shift solenoids
  • Transmission mechanical problems
  • Transmission hydraulic control circuit

How to Fix the DTC P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan 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.

Need more information about the P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

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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 P0733 2004 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does OBDII code P0733 mean on a 2004 Nissan Altima?

P0733 indicates a "3rd Gear Ratio Incorrect," meaning the transmission is not achieving the expected gear ratio in 3rd gear.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0733 code?

Symptoms may include difficulty shifting into 3rd gear, slipping gears, poor acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and the check engine light turning on.

3. What causes the P0733 code in a 2004 Nissan Altima?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, worn clutch plates, internal transmission damage, or a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM).

4. Can driving with a P0733 code damage my vehicle?

Yes, continuing to drive with this issue can cause further damage to the transmission, leading to more expensive repairs.

5. How can I fix the P0733 code on my 2004 Nissan Altima?

Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or dirty, replace or top it off. If the issue persists, inspect the shift solenoids, wiring, and TCM, or consult a transmission specialist.

6. How do I check the transmission fluid on a 2004 Nissan Altima?

Park the car on a level surface, let the engine warm up, and check the fluid level using the dipstick. Ensure the fluid is at the appropriate level and has a red, clear appearance.

7. Can low transmission fluid cause the P0733 code?

Yes, low or degraded transmission fluid can lead to improper hydraulic pressure, preventing the transmission from maintaining the correct gear ratio.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0733 code?

Costs vary based on the issue. Transmission fluid replacement may cost $100–$200, while repairing solenoids or internal transmission components could range from $300 to $3,000.

9. Do I need a new transmission if I get a P0733 code?

Not necessarily. The issue could be as simple as replacing the fluid or repairing a solenoid. A full transmission rebuild or replacement is only needed if there’s severe internal damage.

10. Can a faulty TCM cause the P0733 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning Transmission Control Module can fail to regulate gear shifts properly, triggering the P0733 code.

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