P0733: How to Diagnose & Fix — Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
19 vehicles · 13 makes · $25-$8,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0733: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Ford Explorer · 2020–2023
On some Explorers with the 10R60 ten-speed automatic, engagement into gear or shifts can be harsh or delayed, sometimes with the check-engine light on and transmission codes stored. Ford attributes it to transmission-control software, the solenoid ID strategy and/or sticking valves in the main control valve body. Applies to: 2020–2023 Ford Explorer equipped with the 10R60 ten-speed automatic and showing the symptoms or codes listed in bulletin 23-2352 (the bulletin also covers 2020–2023 Aviator and 2021–2023 Bronco with the 10R60).
How to Fix
Have a Ford dealer confirm the symptom and check for later PCM/TCM software. Bulletin 23-2352 specifies a PCM/TCM software update and adaptive learning drive cycle first. If the condition remains and one of the listed codes is stored, the main control valve body is serviced; without codes, vehicles built on or before 1-Nov-2021 first get a transmission solenoid strategy reprogram, and later builds go to the valve body. Ford notes shifts can feel firmer than normal for several days while the adaptive strategy relearns. Normal warranty rules apply; this is not a recall or a promise of free repair.
Sources for this issue (1)
BMW M2 · 2016–2021
The 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch transmission in F87 M2 models can develop mechatronics unit failures, causing harsh shifting, failure to engage gears, or transmission fault warnings. The issue is related to the solenoid pack and hydraulic valve body within the mechatronics sleeve.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Transmission malfunction warning
- Failure to engage gear
- Grinding noise during shifts
- Limp mode activation
- Check engine light
- Jerking at low speeds
How to Fix
Replace or rebuild the mechatronics unit. In some cases, a transmission adaptation reset via ISTA can resolve early-stage symptoms. Severe cases require full mechatronics replacement, which involves dropping the transmission. Fluid change every 30k miles helps extend life.
Sources for this issue (1)
Lincoln Aviator · 2020–2023
Some 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviators equipped with a 10R60 and built on or before December 23, 2022, or a 10R80 MHT and built on or before August 15, 2022, may have harsh or delayed engagement and/or harsh or delayed shifts. Ford TSB 22-2428 says the condition may involve PCM/TCM software, the transmission solenoid-ID strategy, sticking main-control valves, or axial movement of the CDF clutch-cylinder sleeve. The complaint may occur with or without a malfunction indicator and the bulletin's listed transmission DTCs. The symptom alone does not select a valve body, CDF cylinder, or complete transmission.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh engagement
- Delayed engagement
- Harsh shift
- Delayed shift
- Malfunction indicator with a bulletin-listed transmission DTC
How to Fix
Have a Ford/Lincoln-capable technician confirm the transmission and build date, retrieve PCM/TCM faults, and follow TSB 22-2428 in order. The bulletin begins with available PCM/TCM programming and an adaptive-learning drive cycle, then uses the stored faults and clutch behavior to select an accelerated main-control break-in routine. If the condition remains, the procedure can require main-control overhaul and, only after the bulletin's later tests fail, condition-specific internal transmission repair. Parts and coverage must be selected by VIN and the actual failed step; this record intentionally has no buy link.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipRecord the exact shift or engagement event and ask for the PCM/TCM fault report plus the TSB decision-tree step that failed before approving internal transmission work.
- WarningDo not order a valve body or CDF part from harsh shifting alone; Ford's procedure can resolve the condition through programming, adaptive learning, or clutch cycling before parts are selected.
Sources for this issue (1)
Mazda 626 · 1994–1997
Acura TL · 1999–1999
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P0733 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0733 mean?
P0733 stands for "Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio." This code indicates the transmission control module found that the actual gear ratio in 3rd gear is outside the acceptable range for that gear. It is detected by comparing transmission input speed against output speed while 3rd gear is engaged. A mismatch typically signals the transmission is slipping in 3rd gear or that a control/hydraulic fault is preventing proper engagement.
What are the most common causes of P0733?
The most common causes of P0733 are: Low or contaminated transmission fluid, Worn 3rd-gear clutch packs or bands, Failing shift solenoid for 3rd gear, Valve body or line pressure issues, Internal transmission mechanical wear, Restricted transmission filter, Faulty input or output speed sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0733?
Repair costs for P0733 range from $25 to $8,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0733?
Au7o has documented P0733 across 19 vehicle models from 13 manufacturers: Acura, BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep, Kia, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Volvo.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.