P0746: Pressure Control Solenoid A Performance or Stuck Off

What it means

Pressure control solenoid A is not performing as expected or appears stuck off. The code does not identify the cause.

At a glance

• Usually lights the check-engine light
• The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

Pressure control solenoid A regulates hydraulic flow in response to commands from the transmission module. P0746 is set when the module sees solenoid A performance outside the expected response or detects that it appears stuck off; it does not identify the underlying cause. The mismatch can disrupt shift timing or pressure control.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Solenoid sticking mechanically
2. Solenoid electrical drift

Symptoms

• Check engine or transmission warning light on
• Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
• Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
• Slipping or shuddering during gear changes

How to diagnose it

1. Record freeze-frame data and compare solenoid A command with transmission gear and pressure-related live data to see under what conditions its response is wrong.
2. Check transmission fluid level and condition using the manufacturer's procedure, because fluid problems can prevent a pressure control valve from responding correctly.
3. Inspect solenoid A’s connector and harness for loose contacts, corrosion, fluid intrusion, or damage.
4. Test solenoid A’s coil and circuit for continuity and shorts against the manufacturer's specification.
5. If the circuit passes, follow the manufacturer's procedure to check whether solenoid A or its valve is sticking and whether hydraulic pressure responds to commands.

Common fixes

• Correct fluid level or condition as directed by the manufacturer's service procedure.
• Repair loose, corroded, or damaged connections in solenoid A’s circuit.
• Replace solenoid A if testing shows electrical drift or failure.
• Clean or repair a sticking valve body passage if inspection confirms contamination or binding.
• Repair a hydraulic pressure fault identified by testing.

Can I keep driving?

Keep driving to a minimum if the transmission shifts harshly, slips, or is stuck in one gear; avoid towing and steep or fast driving. Continued slipping can overheat the fluid and damage internal clutches.