P0735: Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
5 vehicles · 4 makes · $400-$3,500 repair
Most Reported On
P0735 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio.” This code means the Transmission/Powertrain Control Module detected an incorrect gear ratio in 5th gear. By comparing input shaft speed to output shaft speed, the module verifies each commanded gear; when the 5th-gear ratio is wrong, P0735 is stored. This typically means the transmission is slipping or failing to lock into 5th gear due to fluid, friction, or solenoid issues. Drivers may notice slipping at highway speeds, RPM flare, poor fuel economy, or limp mode. This code is most commonly reported on 2011-2019 Ford Fiesta, 2002-2010 Ford Explorer, and 2017-2022 Kia Sportage, plus 2 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $400 to $3,500.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 5 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0735, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (5)
FAQ
What does P0735 mean?
P0735 stands for "Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio." This code means the Transmission/Powertrain Control Module detected an incorrect gear ratio in 5th gear. By comparing input shaft speed to output shaft speed, the module verifies each commanded gear; when the 5th-gear ratio is wrong, P0735 is stored. This typically means the transmission is slipping or failing to lock into 5th gear due to fluid, friction, or solenoid issues. Drivers may notice slipping at highway speeds, RPM flare, poor fuel economy, or limp mode.
What are the most common causes of P0735?
The most common causes of P0735 are: Low or degraded/burnt transmission fluid, Slipping clutch packs or worn friction elements in 5th gear, Stuck or faulty shift solenoid, Valve body / internal hydraulic leak or restriction, Worn or failing torque converter, Faulty input or output speed sensor, Internal mechanical wear inside the transmission. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0735?
Repair costs for P0735 range from $400 to $3,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0735?
Au7o has documented P0735 across 5 vehicle models from 4 manufacturers: Ford, Jeep, Kia, Lincoln.
Sources (8)
- NHTSAFord Fiesta PowerShift Transmission NHTSA Complaints
- TSBFord TSB 07-14-6: 5R55S/5R55W flare/bind/delayed engagement concerns
- articleMost Common KIA Transmission Problems - YouCanic
- articleDo Kia Sportages Have Transmission Problems? What You Need to Know
- TSBDaimlerChrysler TSB 08-016-05: TCM Internal Fault May Cause Low Line Pressure or Gear Ratio Error DTC
- Manual2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee 45RFE/545RFE Hydraulic Pressure Test
- Manual2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Transmission Diagnostic Overview
- TSBFord TSB 22-2428: 10R60/10R80/10R80 MHT Harsh or Delayed Engagement and Shift
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.