AutoCodes – Nissan – P0733 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0733 2003 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 2003 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 3,939
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 2003 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan - 3rd. Gear Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0733 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - 3rd. Gear Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0733 2003 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 2003 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 2003 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 2003 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 2003 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0733 mean on a 2003 Nissan Altima?

P0733 indicates a "3rd Gear Malfunction," meaning the transmission is having trouble engaging or maintaining third gear.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0733 code in a 2003 Nissan Altima?

Symptoms may include slipping in third gear, delayed shifting, harsh gear changes, reduced performance, or the transmission staying in limp mode.

3. What causes the P0733 code in a 2003 Nissan Altima?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, faulty shift solenoids, worn clutch packs, a damaged valve body, or issues with the transmission control module (TCM).

4. Can low transmission fluid trigger the P0733 code?

Yes, low or dirty transmission fluid can cause improper hydraulic pressure, leading to gear engagement issues and triggering the P0733 code.

5. How do you diagnose the P0733 code on a 2003 Nissan Altima?

Diagnosis involves checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting shift solenoids, testing the TCM, and performing a thorough transmission inspection for mechanical damage.

6. Can driving with the P0733 code damage my Nissan Altima's transmission?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can cause further damage to the transmission, especially if it involves slipping gears or overheating.

7. What repairs can fix the P0733 code in a 2003 Nissan Altima?

Repairs may include changing the transmission fluid, replacing faulty shift solenoids, repairing or replacing the valve body, or rebuilding the transmission if internal components are worn.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0733 code on a 2003 Nissan Altima?

The cost depends on the cause, ranging from $100-$200 for fluid and filter changes to over $2,000 for a transmission rebuild or replacement.

9. Is a transmission fluid change likely to resolve the P0733 code?

If the issue is due to low or dirty fluid, a fluid and filter change may resolve the problem, but other issues like solenoid or mechanical failures would require additional repairs.

10. Can a P0733 code be caused by an electrical issue?

Yes, electrical problems such as damaged wiring, poor connections, or a malfunctioning TCM can lead to third gear malfunctions and trigger the P0733 code.

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