P0741 on Honda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
7 Honda models · 12 documented issues · 6 critical · $80-$7,000 repair
P0741 on Honda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Complete transmission failure due to faulty bearings and defective 3rd clutch components in 4-speed (1999-2001) and 5-speed (2002-2004) automatic transmissions. The 2002-2004 transmission can suddenly downshift from 5th to 2nd gear causing dangerous drivability issues. Honda recalled 1.1 million vehicles in 2004 and settled class-action lawsuit in 2006.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden harsh downshifts from 5th to 2nd gear
- Grinding or whining noises from transmission
- Slipping between gears
- Transmission overheating
- Complete failure to shift
- Metal fragments in transmission fluid
How to Fix
Complete transmission replacement or rebuild required. Honda extended transmission warranty to 93 months/109,000 miles for 1999-2001 models. For 2002-2004 models with under 15,000 miles, dealers modified oil cooler return line; over 15,000 miles showing overheating damage received complete transmission replacement.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningThis is the most serious issue affecting 2nd generation Odysseys - avoid 1999-2004 models unless transmission has been completely replaced
- TipCheck transmission fluid regularly for metal particles and discoloration indicating overheating
- TipRequest CarFax and maintenance records showing transmission replacement before purchasing used 1999-2004 Odyssey
- TipTransmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles on these models (not Honda's recommended 90,000) to prolong life
Sources for this issue (2)
The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission experienced severe drivability issues from programming defects. Software-controlled dog clutches proved incompatible with Honda's calibration, causing violent shaking/juddering, hesitation when accelerating from stops, and harsh downshifts at low speeds. Multiple class-action lawsuits filed against Honda.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden violent shaking/shuddering during acceleration
- Harsh downshifts between 2nd and 3rd gear
- Hesitation when accelerating from stops
- Jerking when merging into traffic or uphill
- Rough shifting at low speeds (under 30 mph)
- Transmission slipping sensation
How to Fix
Honda issued TSB 17-043 recommending three consecutive drain-and-fill procedures to completely refresh transmission fluid, followed by software update to recalibrate transmission control module. Fluid deteriorates faster than expected under high heat loads. 2020+ models received improved software calibration.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda/Acura ATF Type 3.1, one quartOEMHonda 08268-P99-4EDAD (supersedes 08200-9017)
Exact fluid branch only when a correctly diagnosed 2018-2019 Odyssey ZF 9AT needs scheduled or condition-based fluid service Fitment/availability: 2018-2019 U.S. Honda Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L with the ZF nine-speed only.
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipDemand complete triple drain-and-fill procedure per TSB 17-043 - single fluid change won't fix it
- TipAfter TSB repair, shuddering may take 100-200 miles of driving to disappear as transmission relearns
- WarningAvoid 2018-2019 Odyssey models if possible - 9-speed transmission has fundamental design flaws
Sources for this issue (1)
Judder from torque converter lock-up clutch felt while driving between 20-60 mph. Honda determined the judder was caused by deteriorated transmission fluid exposed to intermittent high heat loads under specific driving conditions. Most noticeable during light acceleration when torque converter attempts to lock up.
Common Symptoms
- Vibration/shudder between 20-60 mph during light acceleration
- Sensation of driving over rumble strips
- Shudder most noticeable at 40-50 mph cruise
- May feel like engine misfire but transmission-related
- Worse when transmission is warm
How to Fix
Honda TSB 17-043 recommends complete transmission fluid change (drain-and-fill) followed by transmission control module software update to maintain fluid temperature within optimal range. In rare cases where torque converter is actually damaged, replacement required.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda ATF DW-1, one quartOEMHonda 08200-9008
Confirm the exact transmission and procedure; not fo
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
- TipTry fluid change + software update before replacing torque converter - most cases don't need converter replacement
- TipChange transmission fluid every 30,000-40,000 miles to prevent recurrence
- WarningDon't let dealer talk you into $2,300 torque converter replacement without trying TSB fluid change first
Sources for this issue (1)
The ZF 9HP transmission produces rough and delayed shifting, loud noises during shifting, sudden harsh accelerations/decelerations, jerking/hesitating at all speeds, and loss of power. Problems stem from improper software calibration and electrical connection defects. Honda issued multiple TSBs but many issues persist until 2019 models.
Common Symptoms
- Rough, harsh, or delayed shifting
- Transmission jerking or hesitation between gears
- Loud clunking or banging noises during shifts
- Sudden loss of power or acceleration
- Torque converter judder between 20-60 mph
- Check engine light with transmission codes
How to Fix
Visit Honda dealer for software updates (TSBs address torque converter judder and shift quality). Transmission fluid changes using Honda ATF 3.1, ZF LifeGuard 9, or Pentosin ATF-9 at 60,000 miles then every 30,000 miles can improve shift quality. Severe cases may require transmission replacement under warranty or class action lawsuit claims.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Honda Genuine ATF Type 3.1, one quartOEMHonda 08268-P99-4EDAD
Factory-spec fluid branch after software, level, leak and symptom diagnosis shows service is required Fitment/availability: 2016-2019 U.S. Honda Pilot Touring or Elite equipped with the ZF 9-speed automatic; current 08268-P99-4EDAD is li…
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
- TipFirst transmission fluid change at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter - drain fluid hot after driving
- Tip2016-2017 models have the worst issues; 2019+ models have most problems resolved by Honda
- WarningUsing incorrect ATF fluid type can severely affect shift quality - only use Honda ATF 3.1, ZF LifeGuard 9, or Pentosin ATF-9
Sources for this issue (4)
Second-generation Pilots with the 5-speed automatic develop a torque-converter lockup-clutch shudder felt as a brief vibration or 'rumble-strip' shake, typically during light acceleration around 25 mph or while cruising at 55-65 mph when the converter clutch partially engages/slips. The cause is the lockup clutch failing to apply smoothly, aggravated by aged or degraded ATF. Left unaddressed it accelerates converter and clutch wear.
Common Symptoms
- Vibration/shudder under light acceleration around 25 mph
- Rumble or shake while cruising 55-65 mph
- Feels like driving over rumble strips
- Symptom comes and goes with throttle and converter lockup
How to Fix
Perform a Honda DW-1 ATF drain-and-fill (often two or three cycles) to restore fluid condition; many owners report the shudder clears with fresh fluid. Persistent cases require torque-converter replacement (updated/revised converters address the early defect). Use only Honda DW-1 ATF — non-spec fluid worsens the shudder.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Honda Genuine DW-1 automatic transmission fluid, one quartOEMHonda 08200-9008
Correct-fluid service branch after the shudder is confirmed and fluid service is indicated Fitment/availability: 2009-2015 U.S.
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Sources for this issue (2)
P0741 means the torque converter lock-up clutch is not engaging as commanded (stuck off / slipping). On the CR-V this is the classic torque-converter judder: a shudder or vibration felt under light acceleration at roughly 20-45 mph as the lock-up clutch chatters. The dominant root cause is not a broken part but deteriorated automatic transmission fluid — Honda's lock-up clutch is sensitive to fluid condition and heat, and the CR-V/Civic/Accord family is known for this. It is most associated with the 2007-2011 (Gen3) and 2012-2014 (Gen4) 2.4L CR-Vs; Honda issued judder-related TSBs (e.g., 15-086) calling for a fluid change and A/T software update, and torque-converter replacement only if the shudder persists.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder/vibration under light throttle around 20-45 mph
- Feels like driving over rumble strips at cruise
- Check-engine light with P0741
- Slight surging as lock-up engages/disengages
How to Fix
Do a genuine Honda ATF (DW-1) drain-and-fill — often two or three cycles — and apply the applicable A/T software update per the TSB; many owners resolve the judder this way. Avoid non-Honda ATF, which can worsen shudder. If the judder or P0741 persists after fresh fluid and the reflash, replace the torque converter (and update software) as the TSB directs.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Three quarts genuine Honda ATF DW-1 automatic-transmission fluidOEMHonda 08200-9008 (quantity 3)
Do not use this path to claim coverage for 2007-2011 or to bypass diagnosis of a stored P0741.
- Genuine Honda 90471-PX4-000 18 mm transmission drain sealing washerOEMHonda 90471-PX4-000
Washer only; confirm seller minimum order quantity before purchase.
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)
P0741 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 P0741 mean on a Honda?
P0741 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off." This code means the torque converter clutch (TCC) is not working as expected and is effectively stuck off, so the converter clutch isn't locking up the way the computer commands it to. The TCC mechanically links the engine to the transmission at cruising speeds to reduce slippage and improve fuel economy, and the computer compares engine RPM to transmission/output speed to verify lockup. When the expected RPM drop from lockup doesn't happen, it sets this performance code. You may notice higher-than-normal RPM at highway speed, reduced fuel economy, and sometimes elevated transmission temperatures. On Honda it is documented across 7 models: Odyssey, Pilot, CR-V, Passport, Crosstour, Ridgeline, Prelude.
What are the most common causes of P0741?
The most common causes of P0741 are: Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, Stuck or worn valve body / TCC control valve, Failed torque converter (internal clutch worn or slipping), Internal transmission leaks reducing apply pressure, Damaged wiring or connector to the TCC solenoid, Faulty transmission control module (TCM/PCM). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0741 on a Honda?
Published repair estimates on Honda range from $80 to $7,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0741 on a different make?
View P0741 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.