P0741 on RAM
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
P0741 on RAM vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit performance/stuck off. Au7o has documented this code across 3 RAM models — most commonly on 1500, 3500, ProMaster City. 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. Typical repair costs on RAM range from $150 to $8,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0741
- •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)
P0741 on RAM by Model
RAM 1500(3 issues)
- ZF 8-Speed Transmission Problems2013-2023
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh shifting, hesitation, and jerky behavior. Some units have failed prematurely. Early model years (2013-2016) seem most affected. Multiple TSBs have been issued for software updates.
- ZF 8HP75 Transmission Harsh Shifting and Hesitation2019-2025
The 2019+ RAM 1500 uses the ZF 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission which exhibits harsh shifting, delayed engagement, hesitation between gears, and rough downshifts. While the transmission itself is mechanically robust, the calibration and TCM (Transmission Control Module) programming have been problematic since launch. Stellantis has released multiple software updates via TSBs to address shift quality. TSB 21-018-22 REV.A addresses rough 1-2 upshift and 2-1 downshift. Some trucks require valve body replacement if software updates do not resolve the issue.
- ZF 8-speed (8HP70/845RE/850RE) torque-converter shudder and harsh shifting2013-2023
RAM 1500s with the ZF-based 8-speed automatic (TorqueFlite 845RE / 850RE, 8HP70/8HP75) commonly develop torque-converter clutch shudder. It feels like a slight-to-heavy vibration or 'driving over rumble strips' at part throttle and light acceleration, typically 15-50 mph as the converter approaches lock-up. Owners frequently report it around the 70,000-80,000 mile range, often tied to degraded fluid friction-modifier and/or worn/glazed torque-converter clutch material. Severe cases drop into limp mode (locked in 3rd gear with a CEL). Harsh 1-2/2-3 upshifts are also reported and are often resolved by a TCM software reflash.
RAM 3500(2 issues)
- 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing2007-2018
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.
- Aisin AS69RC Transmission Overheating and Converter Shudder2013-2025
The RAM 3500 equipped with the Aisin AS69RC 6-speed automatic transmission experiences torque converter shudder, overheating when towing, delayed shifts, and premature wear. The torque converter lockup clutch develops a shudder at light throttle and highway speeds. When towing heavy loads (10,000+ lbs), the transmission temperature can spike rapidly, triggering limp mode. TSB 21-013-19 addresses torque converter shudder with updated fluid and converter. The AS69RC uses a specific Aisin fluid (Mopar 68218058AA) and using incorrect ATF+4 causes accelerated wear. Converter replacement runs $2,000-3,500.
RAM ProMaster City(1 issue)
- ZF 9HP 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Problems2015-2022
The RAM ProMaster City uses the ZF 9HP48 9-speed automatic transmission which is plagued with harsh shifting, delayed engagement, gear hunting, and premature failure. The transmission struggles with low-speed maneuvers, often jerking or hesitating during parking lot driving. Some owners report the transmission failing to shift out of first gear or getting stuck in gear. Multiple TSBs have been issued for shift quality calibration (TSB 21-008-18 REV.C). The 9HP has been the subject of class-action lawsuits across multiple Stellantis vehicles. TCM software updates may help but many trucks need valve body replacement ($1,200-2,000) or complete transmission rebuild ($3,000-5,000).
Looking for P0741 on a different make?
View P0741 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0741 mean on RAM?▼
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 RAM specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0741 on RAM vehicles?▼
Common causes on RAM: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0741 on a RAM?▼
Repair costs on RAM range from $150 to $8,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which RAM models have P0741 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0741 on 3 RAM models: 1500, 3500, ProMaster City.