AutoCodes – Saturn – P0733 Saturn

P0733 Saturn 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 Saturn 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 24,196
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 Saturn 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 Saturn - Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio - AutoCodes.com
P0733 Saturn Code - Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0733 Saturn?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0733 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0733 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.

Need more information about the P0733 Saturn code?

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Need Help with the 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 Saturn Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P0733 Saturn Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0733 Saturn OBDII Code

  • I am working on a 2001 saturn sl1 the customer complained the trans does not shift right Code p0733 i took the valve body out and found the 3rd gear shift solenoid inner screen missing.

  • I was wondering what a solenoid is?

  • The solenoids used on transmissions are small devices that work an hydraulic valve. When power is supply from the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to the solenoid, the solenoid opens and the lets transmission fluid flow. The fluid flow allows the transmission to shift gears.

  • Have code P0733 on Saturn 2002 engine dies at an idle.. only code

  • Start by inspecting the transmission fluid level an condition. The the fluid if necessary.

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