P0742 Code Meaning and Next Steps

First checks take 10 to 20 minutes for the first checks. No special tools are usually needed for the first checks.

Can you keep driving?

Stop driving if any of these apply

!The transmission slips, bangs into gear, or will not shift correctly.
!The vehicle loses drive, enters limp mode, or the warning light is paired with obvious transmission trouble.

If the light is steady and the vehicle still drives normally: Maybe, but only for a short distance if the transmission still shifts normally.

What to check first

Step-by-step checks

1
Free - no tools
Check whether the vehicle feels like it is lugging, shuddering, or stalling when it should be unlocking the converter
2
Free - no tools
Inspect the transmission connector and harness for fluid intrusion or damage
3
Basic tool needed
Check the transmission fluid level and condition before replacing parts
4
Basic tool needed
If scan data is available, compare commanded clutch behavior with the actual drivability pattern
5
Basic tool needed
Look for other transmission or engine codes that may be part of the same fault

If the code returns

-If the clutch is sticking mechanically, fluid or valve-body issues may be more likely than the converter alone.
-If the fault returns after wiring repair, deeper hydraulic or converter testing becomes more useful.
-If the vehicle stalls or shudders badly, stop treating it like a minor nuisance code.

Background

What this code means

P0742 is a generic OBD-II code for the torque converter clutch circuit or performance path.

Treat it as a starting point rather than a guaranteed converter replacement. Upstream engine-running faults, fluid issues, wiring, or valve-body control problems can all influence the result.

Diagnosis

Common causes

Most common

Torque converter clutch stuck on

The clutch may not be releasing when the ECU expects it to.

Common

Solenoid or valve-body issue

The apply/release circuit may be commanding the wrong state.

Common

Fluid problem

Low or degraded fluid can keep the clutch applied too long.

Possible

Wiring or control fault

A bad command or signal can make the clutch appear stuck.

Avoid these mistakes

What not to do

xDo not assume the converter is dead before checking for engine-running faults, fluid condition, or related transmission codes.
xDo not keep driving if the transmission starts slipping, shuddering badly, or failing to stay in gear.

Parts

Parts that may need replacing

PartTypical costNotes

Transmission fluid service$80-$250Worth checking before assuming the converter is bad.

Torque converter clutch solenoid or valve-body repair$150-$900Relevant when the control path is sticking on.

Torque converter$500-$1,500+Only after the control and fluid checks are ruled out.

Related OBD codes

P0741

P0741 usually means torque converter clutch circuit performance or stuck off.

P0743

P0743 usually means torque converter clutch electrical problem.

P0700

P0700 usually means the transmission control system has a fault stored in the transmission module.

Source notes

Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0742 was expanded around torque converter clutch stuck-on faults, including hydraulics, solenoids, and wiring issues.

This guide is written as a generic multi-make reference, so bulletin history, sensor locations, and repair order can still change by manufacturer and engine family.

This is generic OBD-II guidance and should not override vehicle-specific service information. Exact diagnosis and repair steps vary by make, engine family, and model year.

Last reviewed: 2026-04-10

Reference: Open reference

P0742 - P0742 Usually Means Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck on