AutoCodes – Audi – P0733 Audi

P0733 Audi Code - Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio

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 Audi indicates Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio.
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.

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Code Popularity 9,441

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
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0733 Audi 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 Audi - Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio - AutoCodes.com — P0733 Audi Code - Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0733 Audi?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0733 Audi?

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

Start by inspecting the transmission fluid level and condition, and change fluid if necessary.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0733 Audi 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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0733 Audi Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0733 mean on an Audi?

P0733 indicates "Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio," meaning the transmission's third gear is not achieving the expected gear ratio due to a mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic issue.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0733 code in an Audi?

Symptoms may include difficulty shifting into or out of third gear, slipping in third gear, reduced fuel efficiency, harsh shifting, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P0733 code to appear in an Audi?

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

4. Can driving with the P0733 code damage my Audi?

Yes, driving with this code can cause further damage to the transmission if the issue isnâ€™t resolved promptly, especially if the problem involves slipping or overheating.

5. How do I diagnose the P0733 code on an Audi?

Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition, then inspect wiring and connectors to the TCM, and test the shift solenoids and other related components with a diagnostic tool.

6. How can low transmission fluid cause a P0733 code?

Low transmission fluid can prevent proper hydraulic pressure needed to engage and maintain third gear, leading to an incorrect gear ratio.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0733 code on an Audi?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause, with minor fixes like fluid replacement costing around $100â€“$200, while major repairs like rebuilding the transmission can exceed $2,000.

8. Can a faulty TCM trigger the P0733 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning TCM can fail to properly control gear shifts, leading to an incorrect ratio being detected in third gear.

9. Will resetting the Check Engine Light fix the P0733 code?

No, resetting the light without addressing the underlying issue will not resolve the problem, and the code is likely to return.

10. What should I do if my Audi shows the P0733 code?

Have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic promptly to diagnose and repair the issue, focusing on the transmission system and related components.