AutoCodes – KIA – P0742 KIA

P0742 KIA Code - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On

Quick Answer

The Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid valve is activated, with the gear in D4, by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in response to signals sent from the vehicle speed and the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve. 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: P0742 KIA indicates Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve.
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 13,229

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 P0742 KIA Description

The Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid valve is activated, with the gear in D4, by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in response to signals sent from the vehicle speed and the Engine Control Module (ECM). Lock-up piston operation will then be controlled. When the torque converter clutch solenoid valve is activated, the torque converter lockup clutch will engage creating a 1 to 1 RPM ratio between the transmission input shaft and the rotational speed of the torque converter.
Lock-up operation, however, is prohibited when A/T fluid temperature is too low.
When the accelerator pedal is depressed (less than 2/8) in lock-up condition, the engine speed should not change abruptly. If there is a big jump in engine speed, there is no lock-up.

OBDII Code P0742 KIA - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On - AutoCodes.com — P0742 KIA Code - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0742 KIA?

Low transmission fluid level
Dirty transmission fluid
Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid valve
Torque converter clutch solenoid valve harness or connectors
Torque converter clutch solenoid valve circuit is open or shorted
Transmission internal mechanical problem

How to Fix the DTC P0742 KIA?

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

When the a transmission solenoid is stuck on, in most cases the problem is not the electrical part of the solenoid; the problem is foreign material obstructing the mechanical function of the solenoid or the flow of the fluid through the transmission valve body. If the transmission fluid is very dirty, it is recommend changing the transmission fluid and if possible removing the transmission pan for further diagnosis. Excessive debris or metal particles on the transmission pan could be an indication that there is a transmission mechanical failure and that the transmission will need to be rebuilt or replaced.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0742 KIA 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 P0742 KIA Code

What does the OBDII code P0742 mean on a Kia?

The P0742 code indicates that the torque converter clutch circuit is stuck in the "on" position, meaning the torque converter may not be disengaging properly.

What are the common symptoms of P0742 in a Kia?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, stalling when coming to a stop, transmission overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, or the check engine light turning on.

What causes the P0742 code to appear in a Kia?

Common causes include a faulty torque converter clutch solenoid, wiring issues, a damaged transmission valve body, low or dirty transmission fluid, or internal transmission failure.

Can I drive my Kia with the P0742 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to further transmission damage, stalling, or unsafe driving conditions.

How do you diagnose the P0742 code on a Kia?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for additional codes, inspecting the transmission fluid, testing the torque converter clutch solenoid, and checking the wiring and connectors in the circuit.

What role does the torque converter clutch solenoid play in the P0742 code?

The solenoid controls the engagement and disengagement of the torque converter clutch. If it gets stuck in the "on" position, it can trigger the P0742 code.

Can low or dirty transmission fluid cause the P0742 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can affect the operation of the torque converter clutch and trigger the P0742 code.

How much does it cost to fix the P0742 code on a Kia?

Repair costs can vary widely, from $100 to $400 for solenoid replacement to over $1,000 if internal transmission repairs are needed.

Will clearing the P0742 code fix the issue?

Clearing the code might turn off the check engine light temporarily, but it wonâ€™t address the underlying problem causing the code.

Is the P0742 code a serious issue for a Kia?

Yes, this code can lead to significant transmission problems if not addressed promptly, so itâ€™s important to diagnose and repair it as soon as possible.