AutoCodes – Toyota – P0735 Toyota

P0735 Toyota Code - Gear 5 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 (5th) 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: P0735 Toyota indicates Gear 5 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 7,255

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 P0735 Toyota 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 (5th) 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 P0735 Toyota - Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio - AutoCodes.com — P0735 Toyota Code - Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0735 Toyota?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0735 Toyota?

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 P0735 Toyota 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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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 P0735 Toyota Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0735 mean on a Toyota?

P0735 indicates "Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio," meaning the transmission control module (TCM) has detected an issue with the gear ratio in fifth gear, often due to slippage or incorrect speed readings.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0735 code?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, harsh or delayed shifting, slipping in fifth gear, decreased fuel efficiency, and the check engine light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P0735 code on a Toyota?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, a malfunctioning transmission speed sensor, worn-out clutches or bands, or internal transmission damage.

4. Can driving with a P0735 code damage my Toyota further?

Yes, driving with this code can cause more damage to the transmission if the issue involves slippage, overheating, or internal wear, so it’s best to address it promptly.

5. How do I diagnose a P0735 code on my Toyota?

Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition, then inspect the transmission speed sensors, shift solenoids, and wiring for damage. If necessary, perform a pressure test or have the transmission inspected by a professional.

6. Can low transmission fluid cause a P0735 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can lead to poor hydraulic pressure and slippage, which may trigger the P0735 code.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0735 code on a Toyota?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Fluid replacement may cost $100–$250, while sensor or solenoid replacements range from $150–$500. Major transmission repairs can exceed $1,000.

8. Can a bad speed sensor trigger the P0735 code?

Yes, a faulty transmission speed sensor can send incorrect signals to the TCM, causing it to misinterpret the gear ratio and trigger the P0735 code.

9. Is it possible to fix a P0735 code without rebuilding the transmission?

Yes, if the issue is related to fluid levels, sensors, solenoids, or wiring, repairs can often be made without a full transmission rebuild.

10. What should I do if my Toyota shows a P0735 code?

Stop driving the vehicle if possible, check the transmission fluid, and have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional to prevent further damage and ensure proper repairs.