P0740: How to Diagnose & Fix — Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
62 vehicles · 21 makes · $80-$9,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0740: 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.
Nissan Altima · 2013–2023
The CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Through class-action settlements, Nissan extended the CVT warranty on 2013-2016 and 2017-2018 Altimas from 60 months/60,000 miles to 84 months/84,000 miles. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk.
Common Symptoms
- Shuddering during acceleration
- Jerky or hesitant response
- Delayed engagement from stop
- Whining noise from transmission
- Complete loss of power
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3. Check if vehicle is covered by Nissan extended CVT warranty. If shuddering, may need valve body or complete CVT replacement. Avoid aggressive driving to prolong CVT life.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- OEM 2013-2018 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit
2013-2018 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE CVT; select exact year. Maintenance/contamination service only, not a cure for internal CVT damage.
- OEM 2013-2018 Altima 3.5L CVT service kit
Service cannot repair confirmed mechanical judder or belt/pulley damage.
- OEM 2019-2023 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit
Confirm year, drivetrain and VIN.
- OEM 2019-2023 Altima 2.0T CVT service kit
2019-2023 Nissan Altima 2.0T KR20DDET CVT for this card; verify exact year/VIN. Not for the 2.5L engine.
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipChange CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3.
- WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Sources for this issue (2)
RAM 3500 · 2007–2018
The 2007-2018 RAM 3500 with the 68RFE 6-speed automatic transmission suffers from premature failure when towing heavy loads (over 10,000 lbs). The 68RFE is a derivative of the older 545RFE and was not adequately engineered for the torque output of the 6.7L Cummins. The overdrive clutch pack, solenoid pack, and torque converter are the primary failure points. Overheating during sustained towing destroys the clutch packs and warps the valve body. Many trucks experience complete transmission failure between 80,000-150,000 miles if used for regular towing. Rebuild cost: $3,000-5,000. Built/upgraded transmission: $5,000-8,000.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission slipping under heavy load
- Flare between 3rd and 4th gear
- No 3rd gear or no overdrive
- Transmission overheating warning while towing
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Check engine light with transmission codes
- Complete loss of forward or reverse gears
How to Fix
For minor issues: Complete fluid and filter change with Mopar ATF+4 (68218057AA) and solenoid pack replacement ($400-800). For overheating prevention: Install an auxiliary transmission cooler and keep temps under 220F. For rebuilds: Use a reputable heavy-duty builder (SunCoast, Randys Worldwide, BD Diesel). A properly built 68RFE with billet shafts, upgraded clutch packs, and triple-disc torque converter ($5,000-8,000) will handle 800+ lb-ft of torque. For 2019+ trucks, the Aisin AS69RC replaced the 68RFE.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Geno's Garage QSK2004 68RFE service kit
Verify transmission, pan and required fluid quantity.
- Genuine Mopar ATF+4 68218058AC
68RFE only; verify transmission and service versus overhaul fill quantity.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
Nissan Rogue · 2014–2020
The Nissan Rogue's CVT transmission is prone to premature failure, shuddering, and jerky operation. Under a class-action settlement, Nissan extended the CVT warranty on 2014-2018 Rogues to 7 years/84,000 miles due to widespread issues. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk for complete failure.
Common Symptoms
- Shuddering during acceleration
- Jerky or hesitant response
- Whining or humming noise from transmission
- Delayed engagement from stop
- Complete loss of power
- Check engine light with CVT codes
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid. Check if vehicle is covered by Nissan's extended CVT warranty. If shuddering occurs, may need valve body replacement or complete CVT replacement. Avoid aggressive driving to prolong CVT life.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid 999MP-CSHNS3
2014-2020 Rogue CVT when the owner/service manual specifies Nissan NS-3; confirm VIN, transmission, service-fill quantity and temperature-based level procedure.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipChange CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid.
- WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Sources for this issue (3)
Nissan Versa · 2012–2021
Nissan Sentra · 2013–2021
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P0740 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 P0740 mean?
P0740 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction." This code indicates an electrical malfunction in the torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid circuit of an automatic transmission. The torque converter clutch mechanically locks the engine to the transmission at cruising speed to improve fuel economy and reduce slippage, and it is engaged by a solenoid controlled by the transmission computer. The code sets when the computer detects an open, short, or out-of-range condition in the TCC solenoid circuit. A clutch that is commanded on but slips or won't hold sets a separate code (P0741). Common signs include the converter not locking up (higher cruise RPM and poor fuel economy), a check engine light, or stalling when coming to a stop if the clutch stays applied.
What are the most common causes of P0740?
The most common causes of P0740 are: Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, Wiring or connector fault in the TCC circuit (open or short), Transmission case connector or internal harness damage, including fluid intrusion, Internal transmission electrical short, Faulty transmission control module. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0740?
Repair costs for P0740 range from $80 to $9,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0740?
Au7o has documented P0740 across 62 vehicle models from 21 manufacturers: Acura, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mercury, Nissan, RAM, Saturn, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, 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.