AutoCodesGMC – P0731 2017 GMC Sierra

P0731 2017 GMC Sierra 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 2017 GMC Sierra 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 195
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 2017 GMC Sierra 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 2017 GMC Sierra - Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect - AutoCodes.com
P0731 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Transmission 1st Gear Ratio Incorrect

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0731 2017 GMC Sierra?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0731 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 2017 GMC Sierra 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 P0731 2017 GMC Sierra 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 P0731 2017 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P0731 mean for a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P0731 indicates that the transmission's 1st gear ratio is incorrect, typically due to a mismatch between the expected and actual gear ratios observed by the vehicle's computer.

What are common symptoms of code P0731 in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include difficulty shifting gears, slipping in 1st gear, reduced acceleration, abnormal RPM behavior, and possibly the illumination of the check engine light.

What causes the P0731 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include low transmission fluid, a faulty transmission solenoid, damaged clutch or gears, or issues with the transmission control module (TCM).

Can low transmission fluid trigger the P0731 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause improper gear engagement, leading to an incorrect gear ratio and triggering this code.

How do you diagnose P0731 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis often involves scanning for additional trouble codes, inspecting transmission fluid levels and condition, testing the transmission solenoids, and checking for mechanical damage inside the transmission.

Can driving with the P0731 code damage the transmission?

Yes, prolonged driving with this code can worsen transmission damage, as improper gear engagement can lead to excessive wear and overheating.

How can the P0731 code be repaired on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the transmission fluid, repairing or replacing damaged transmission components, or reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM).

Is the P0731 code specific to the 1st gear?

Yes, the code specifically refers to an incorrect gear ratio detected in the transmission’s 1st gear.

Can a faulty TCM cause the P0731 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning transmission control module can incorrectly interpret gear ratios and trigger this code.

What is the cost to fix a P0731 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary widely, from $100 for a fluid change to several thousand dollars for transmission rebuilds or replacements, depending on the severity of the issue.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0731 2017 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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