What it means
The TCM reads a voltage below threshold on the torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid control circuit. The TCC may not engage, increasing fuel consumption and converter heat.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The torque converter clutch solenoid controls hydraulic pressure that applies the clutch linking the converter to the transmission during appropriate driving conditions. P2769 sets when the transmission control module detects voltage below the expected level on the clutch solenoid control circuit, which can prevent the clutch from engaging.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to ground
- Internal solenoid short
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
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
- Record freeze-frame data and check whether the code appears when the module commands the torque converter clutch on.
- Inspect the clutch solenoid connector and nearby wiring for corrosion, damage, or a control wire shorted to ground.
- Check the circuit for a short to ground and inspect connector pin condition using the wiring diagram.
- Test the solenoid’s electrical condition and circuit response against the manufacturer's specification.
- If the electrical circuit tests correctly, check clutch command and engagement data to distinguish an electrical fault from a hydraulic or mechanical problem.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure corroded solenoid connector pins.
- Repair a control wire shorted to ground.
- Replace a torque converter clutch solenoid that fails testing.
- Repair a verified connector or circuit fault at the transmission control module.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid towing, heavy loads, and extended driving if the transmission slips, shudders, shifts poorly, or overheats; stop if it cannot maintain drive safely. A clutch that fails to engage can increase fuel use and converter heat, while a short may cause further shift faults.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.