AutoCodes – Saturn – P0742 Saturn

P0742 Saturn Code - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On

Quick Answer

The Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid valve is a normally-open exhaust valve that is used with the Torque Converter Clutch Pulse Width Modulation (TCC PWM) solenoid valve in order to control fluid acting on the converter clutch apply valve. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve. 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: P0742 Saturn indicates Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve.
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 17,156

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 29, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0742 Saturn Description

The Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid valve is a normally-open exhaust valve that is used with the Torque Converter Clutch Pulse Width Modulation (TCC PWM) solenoid valve in order to control fluid acting on the converter clutch apply valve. The TCC solenoid valve attaches to the transmission case assembly extending into the pump cover. When grounded (energized) by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the TCC solenoid valve stops converter signal oil from exhausting. This causes converter signal oil pressure to increase and move the converter clutch apply valve against spring force and into the apply position. In this position, release fluid is open to an exhaust port and converter feed fluid fills the apply fluid circuit. The converter feed fluid applies the TCC.

OBDII Code P0742 Saturn - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On - AutoCodes.com — P0742 Saturn Code - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0742 Saturn?

Low transmission fluid level
Dirty transmission fluid
Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve
Torque converter clutch solenoid valve harness or connectors
Torque converter clutch solenoid valve circuit is open or shorted
Transmission internal mechanical problem

How to Fix the DTC P0742 Saturn?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

When a transmission solenoid is stuck on, in most cases the problem is not the electrical part of the solenoid; the problem is foreign material obstructing the mechanical function of the solenoid or the flow of the fluid through the transmission valve body. If the transmission fluid is very dirty, it is recommended to change the transmission fluid and if possible removing the transmission pan for further diagnosis. Excessive debris or metal particles on the transmission pan could be an indication that there is a transmission mechanical failure and that the transmission will need to be rebuilt or replaced.

There is a factory service bulletin for the following Saturn Models:
2005-2006 Saturn Relay
2005-2006 Saturn Relay AWD
2005-2007 Saturn Relay EXT
Saturn Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0742

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0742 Saturn 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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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.