P0740 on Volvo
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0740 on Volvo vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 5 Volvo models — most commonly on 850, S60, S70. This code indicates a malfunction in the torque converter clutch (TCC) 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 electrical problem with the clutch circuit or sees that the clutch is not engaging or holding as expected. Common signs include slipping, shuddering, poor fuel economy, or stalling when coming to a stop. Typical repair costs on Volvo range from $300 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0740
- •Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid
- •Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- •Wiring or connector fault in the TCC circuit
- •Worn or failing torque converter
- •Valve body wear or sticking valves
- •Internal transmission electrical short
- •Faulty transmission control module
P0740 on Volvo by Model
Volvo 850(1 issue)
- AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Shudder1993-1997
The Volvo 850 automatic transmission (Aisin-Warner AW50-42) develops torque converter shudder during light acceleration and lockup. The valve body solenoids wear and the torque converter clutch material degrades, causing vibration.
Volvo S60(2 issues)
- 8-Speed Automatic Delayed Engagement and Hesitation2019-2023
The Aisin Warner 8-speed automatic in the S60 T5 and T6 exhibits delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, and hesitation during low-speed maneuvers. Owners report a 1-2 second delay before the car moves after selecting Drive, and jerky behavior in parking lots. The issue is linked to TCM software calibration that prioritizes fuel economy over responsiveness, and torque converter clutch engagement logic. Cold weather amplifies the delay. Volvo has released multiple TCM software updates.
- AW55-50SN 5-Speed Automatic Transmission and TCM Failure2001-2009
P2-generation S60s use the Aisin-Warner AW55-50SN 5-speed automatic. Two related failures dominate owner reports: the transmission control module (TCM), which is mounted inside the transmission case and bathed in hot ATF, develops cracked solder joints and internal failures, and the transmission's clutch packs and valve body wear prematurely because Volvo originally specified the fluid as 'lifetime fill'. Symptoms usually begin as harsh or delayed 1-2 and 2-3 shifts, then progress to flare-ups, limp-home mode (locked in 3rd gear), and eventually loss of forward or reverse. Owners on CarComplaints report 'Transmission/TCU Failure' and 'Lost Forward And Reverse' on early cars, and NHTSA has 16+ automatic-transmission complaints on the 2001 alone.
Volvo S70(1 issue)
- AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure1998-2000
Like the 850, the S70 shares the Aisin-Warner AW50-42 automatic transmission that develops internal failures. The valve body, solenoids, and torque converter are common failure points, especially in turbocharged models.
Volvo S80(1 issue)
- Aisin TF-80SC 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Valve Body Failure2007-2016
The Aisin TF-80SC 6-speed automatic transmission in the S80 develops valve body issues and torque converter shudder, particularly between 60,000-100,000 miles. The valve body solenoids lose calibration, causing harsh shifts and delayed engagement. The torque converter lockup clutch shudders at 30-50 mph under light throttle. The transmission fluid breaks down over time (despite Volvo's 'lifetime fill' claim), accelerating internal wear. This same transmission is used across many Volvo models (S60, V70, XC60, XC70, XC90) and has a well-documented failure pattern.
Volvo XC70(1 issue)
- Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues2001-2012
The Aisin AW55-50SN and AW55-51SN automatic transmissions used in the XC70 develop solenoid failures and internal clutch wear, typically between 100,000-150,000 miles. The transmission solenoids (particularly the SL1 and SL2 linear solenoids) lose calibration and stick, causing harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping. The valve body accumulates wear debris that causes erratic shifting. In severe cases, the forward or reverse clutch packs burn out, requiring a complete rebuild or replacement. Regular fluid changes significantly extend transmission life.
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View P0740 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0740 mean on Volvo?▼
P0740 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction." This code indicates a malfunction in the torque converter clutch (TCC) 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 electrical problem with the clutch circuit or sees that the clutch is not engaging or holding as expected. Common signs include slipping, shuddering, poor fuel economy, or stalling when coming to a stop. On Volvo specifically, this code is documented across 5 models.
What causes P0740 on Volvo vehicles?▼
Common causes on Volvo: Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, Low or contaminated transmission fluid, Wiring or connector fault in the TCC circuit, Worn or failing torque converter, Valve body wear or sticking valves. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0740 on a Volvo?▼
Repair costs on Volvo range from $300 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Volvo models have P0740 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0740 on 5 Volvo models: 850, S60, S70, S80, XC70.