AutoCodes – Nissan – P0733 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0733 2005 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 2005 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 3,931

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0733 2005 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan - 3rd. Gear Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0733 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - 3rd. Gear Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0733 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0733 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0733 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

What does the OBDII code P0733 mean for a 2005 Nissan Altima?

P0733 indicates a "3rd Gear Ratio Incorrect" fault, meaning the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a problem with the gear ratio in 3rd gear.

What are common symptoms of a P0733 code in a 2005 Nissan Altima?

Symptoms include the transmission slipping in 3rd gear, harsh shifting, the vehicle being stuck in limp mode, reduced acceleration, or the check engine light turning on.

What causes a P0733 code in a 2005 Nissan Altima?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty transmission solenoid, damaged clutch packs, a malfunctioning speed sensor, or internal transmission issues.

Can driving with a P0733 code damage my 2005 Nissan Altima?

Yes, driving with this code can cause further damage to the transmission if the issue is not addressed promptly, especially if the transmission is slipping or overheating.

How do I diagnose the P0733 code in my 2005 Nissan Altima?

Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspect the solenoids, test the input and output speed sensors, and use a scan tool to monitor live transmission data.

Is low transmission fluid a common reason for the P0733 code?

Yes, low or dirty transmission fluid can cause incorrect gear ratios by affecting hydraulic pressure, leading to a P0733 code.

How much does it cost to fix a P0733 code in a 2005 Nissan Altima?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but can range from $100 for a fluid change to $3,000 or more for a full transmission rebuild or replacement.

Can a faulty speed sensor cause the P0733 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning input or output speed sensor can send incorrect data to the TCM, resulting in a P0733 code.

How can I prevent the P0733 code from occurring in my 2005 Nissan Altima?

Regularly check and change the transmission fluid, address shifting issues promptly, and ensure all transmission components are well-maintained.

Do I need to replace the transmission to fix a P0733 code?

Not always. The issue could be resolved by replacing solenoids, sensors, or performing a fluid service. However, severe internal damage may require a rebuild or replacement.