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P0736CriticalPowertrain

P0736: Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio

3 vehicles · 3 makes · $300-$7,000 repair

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Most Reported On

2020-2023Lincoln Aviator1996-2002Mercedes-Benz C-Class2004Jeep Grand Cherokee2005-2013Jeep Grand Cherokee

P0736 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio.” This code means the transmission control module calculated that the actual gear ratio in reverse does not match the expected ratio. The module compares input (turbine) speed to output speed to verify the transmission is in the correct gear; a mismatch in reverse indicates slipping or a hydraulic/mechanical problem in reverse. Symptoms include the vehicle slipping in or refusing to engage reverse. Internal clutch wear, low fluid, or solenoid faults are typical causes. This code is most commonly reported on 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 1996-2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with repair costs ranging from $300 to $7,000.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (3)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (11)

Makes

  • Jeep2
  • Lincoln1
  • Mercedes-Benz1
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Common Causes

1Worn reverse clutches/bands (internal slippage)
2Low or dirty transmission fluid
3Faulty shift or pressure control solenoid
4Internal hydraulic pressure loss
5Valve body fault
6Faulty speed sensor giving bad ratio data
7Faulty transmission control module

Typical Repair Cost

$300 - $7,000

Based on 4 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P0736, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

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
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Best Value$90–$120

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)
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Advanced$180–$230

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
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Professional$350–$450

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)
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  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (3)

Jeep P0736 page →
Grand CherokeeCritical

2004 545RFE Intermittent Low-Line-Pressure or Gear-Ratio DTCs — Check TCM Build Date

20040 reports
Grand CherokeeCritical

W5A580 (NAG1) 5-Speed Automatic Limp Mode and Harsh Shift from Conductor-Plate Speed Sensors and Fluid Contamination

2005-2013$300-$3,5000 reports
Lincoln P0736 page →
AviatorCritical

10R60/10R80 MHT Harsh/Delayed Shifts from Sticking Valve Body and CDF Clutch Sleeve Movement

2020-2023$800-$7,0000 reports
Mercedes-Benz P0736 page →
C-ClassCritical

722.6 5G-Tronic conductor plate failure (limp mode, stuck in 2nd gear)

1996-2002$600-$1,8000 reports

Related Codes (8)

P0730Incorrect Gear RatioP0731Gear 1 Incorrect RatioP0732Gear 3 Incorrect RatioP0733Gear 4 Incorrect RatioP0013"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)P0020Camshaft Position 'A' Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)P0023"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)P0025"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

FAQ

What does P0736 mean?

P0736 stands for "Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio." This code means the transmission control module calculated that the actual gear ratio in reverse does not match the expected ratio. The module compares input (turbine) speed to output speed to verify the transmission is in the correct gear; a mismatch in reverse indicates slipping or a hydraulic/mechanical problem in reverse. Symptoms include the vehicle slipping in or refusing to engage reverse. Internal clutch wear, low fluid, or solenoid faults are typical causes.

What are the most common causes of P0736?

The most common causes of P0736 are: Worn reverse clutches/bands (internal slippage), Low or dirty transmission fluid, Faulty shift or pressure control solenoid, Internal hydraulic pressure loss, Valve body fault, Faulty speed sensor giving bad ratio data, Faulty transmission control module. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P0736?

Repair costs for P0736 range from $300 to $7,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P0736?

Au7o has documented P0736 across 3 vehicle models from 3 manufacturers: Jeep, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz.

Sources (11)

  • TSBTSB 23-2250 - 10R60/10R80/10R80 MHT Harsh/Delayed Engagement And/Or Shift (NHTSA)
  • TSB10R60/10R80/10R80 MHT Automatic Transmission - 2021-2023 Ford & Lincoln (Ford OEMDTC)
  • articleClass Action Filed Over Ford 10R80 Harsh Shifting
  • articleMercedes 722.6 5G Transmission Valve Body Conductor Plate Replacement - YouCanic
  • articleHere's What A 'Conductor Plate' Is And Why It Kills So Many Mercedes Vehicles - The Autopian
  • Forum722.6 Conductor Plate Failure - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum
  • 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
  • ForumW5A580 Transmission Limp mode — Jeep Enthusiast Forums
  • articleJeep Grand Cherokee Transmission Problems & Cost — W5A580 — Transmission Repair Cost Guide
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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.

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