P0742 on Chevrolet
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0742 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit stuck on. Au7o has documented this code across 12 Chevrolet models — most commonly on C/K 1500, Camaro, Colorado. P0742 means the torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit is stuck on, meaning the lockup clutch that mechanically links the engine to the transmission stays engaged when it should release. The computer commands the clutch on and off, and when it detects the converter clutch remaining applied, it sets this code. The classic symptom is the engine stalling when coming to a stop, similar to driving a manual without pushing the clutch in, along with possible harsh shifts or poor fuel economy. It points to a hydraulic or solenoid problem inside the transmission rather than the engine. Typical repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0742
- •Stuck or failed torque converter clutch solenoid
- •Stuck valve in the valve body (TCC apply valve)
- •Contaminated or degraded transmission fluid
- •Internal transmission hydraulic leak holding the clutch on
- •Wiring or connector fault to the TCC solenoid
- •Faulty torque converter
- •Dirty or clogged transmission filter
P0742 on Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet C/K 1500(1 issue)
- 4L60E Automatic Transmission Failure1993-1998
The 4L60E transmission is known for 3-4 clutch pack burnup, sun shell failure, and worn input drum. These trucks were often used for towing which accelerated wear. The transmission develops slipping in 3rd and 4th gears.
Chevrolet Camaro(1 issue)
- 8-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder (8L90/8L45)2016-2019
The 8L90 and 8L45 8-speed automatic transmissions experience torque converter clutch shudder, causing vibration and shaking during gear changes. The issue is caused by the lock-up clutch slipping and chattering. This defect has been the subject of class action lawsuits against GM.
Chevrolet Colorado(1 issue)
- 8-Speed Transmission Shudder/Harsh Shifts2015-2023
The 8L45 8-speed automatic transmission can develop a shudder during light acceleration, typically between 25-50 mph. This is caused by torque converter clutch issues, similar to problems in other GM vehicles with this transmission family.
Chevrolet Corvette(1 issue)
- Driveline Vibration at Low Speed - C72014-2019
The C7 Corvette with the 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic can develop an annoying driveline vibration/shudder at low speeds, particularly during gentle acceleration from a stop. The 7-speed manual uses a dual-mass flywheel that can develop chatter. The 8-speed automatic (8L90) shares the torque converter shudder issue with GM trucks. The transaxle-mounted differential and half-shafts can also contribute to vibrations.
Chevrolet Cruze(1 issue)
- 6T40 Transmission Shudder (Gen 1)2011-2015
The first-generation Cruze with the 6T40 automatic transmission develops a shudder during torque converter lockup in the 25-45 mph range. The torque converter clutch friction material wears and generates debris that contaminates the fluid, worsening the shudder over time in a vicious cycle. The shudder feels like driving over a textured road surface and is most noticeable during gentle acceleration. The 6T40 in the Cruze sees more stress than in larger vehicles because the 1.4T engine produces torque at low RPM, keeping the converter locked more often.
Chevrolet Equinox(1 issue)
- Transmission Shudder and Torque Converter Failure2010-2020
Transmission shuddering is common in Equinox models, typically caused by torque converter clutch issues or depleted transmission fluid additives. The shudder is most noticeable during light acceleration between 25-50 mph as the transmission shifts through 3rd-5th gears.
Chevrolet Impala(1 issue)
- 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts2000-2013
The 4T65-E automatic transmission used in the 2000-2013 Impala is one of the most failure-prone GM transmissions. Common failures include the 1-2 accumulator piston cracking (causing harsh 1-2 shift), pressure control solenoid failure (erratic shifts and slipping), and the forward clutch hub cracking (complete loss of forward gears). The 3.8L supercharged models are especially hard on the 4T65-E due to higher torque output. Many 4T65-E transmissions fail between 80,000-120,000 miles.
Chevrolet Lumina(1 issue)
- 4T60E Automatic Transmission Failure1995-2001
The 4T60E transmission in the Lumina develops shifting problems, particularly the second clutch reaction plates that were improperly stamped in some production runs. The transmission can lose 1st or 4th gear, develop harsh shifts, or strip planetary gears causing complete loss of drive. GM issued a campaign for certain 1995 models with defective clutch plates.
Chevrolet Malibu(1 issue)
- 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting2016-2024
The 2016+ Malibu with the 1.5T engine uses a GM/Ford co-developed 9-speed automatic (9T50) that can exhibit shudder, harsh shifts, and delayed engagement. The 9-speed is sensitive to fluid condition and requires proper DEXRON HP fluid. GM has released multiple TCM calibration updates. The 2.0T Malibu uses a different 9-speed (9T65) with similar but less frequent issues.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500(1 issue)
- 8/10-Speed Transmission Shudder2015-2023
Both the 8-speed and 10-speed automatic transmissions can develop a shudder during light acceleration. This torque converter clutch issue is widespread across GM trucks. Multiple TSBs have been issued addressing this concern.
Chevrolet Suburban(1 issue)
- 8L90 Transmission Shudder2015-2020
Same 8L90 torque converter shudder as Tahoe/Silverado/Escalade. Light throttle shudder between 25-50 mph. GM Customer Satisfaction Program 18302 extends coverage to 6yr/100k.
Chevrolet Tahoe(2 issues)
- 10L80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting2021-2025
The 2021+ Tahoe uses the GM 10L80 10-speed with reports of harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and shift hunting between gears. GM has released multiple TCM calibration updates. The transmission requires DEXRON ULV fluid (NOT DEXRON HP). Most shift quality issues are resolved with the latest software calibration.
- 8L90 8-Speed Transmission Shudder2015-2020
The 2015-2020 Tahoe uses the GM 8L90 8-speed automatic with the same widespread torque converter shudder affecting Silverado and Escalade. Shudder occurs at light throttle between 25-50 mph. Root cause is torque converter clutch material contaminating the fluid. GM extended warranty to 6 years/100,000 miles under Customer Satisfaction Program 18302.
Looking for P0742 on a different make?
View P0742 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0742 mean on Chevrolet?▼
P0742 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On." P0742 means the torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit is stuck on, meaning the lockup clutch that mechanically links the engine to the transmission stays engaged when it should release. The computer commands the clutch on and off, and when it detects the converter clutch remaining applied, it sets this code. The classic symptom is the engine stalling when coming to a stop, similar to driving a manual without pushing the clutch in, along with possible harsh shifts or poor fuel economy. It points to a hydraulic or solenoid problem inside the transmission rather than the engine. On Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 12 models.
What causes P0742 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: Stuck or failed torque converter clutch solenoid, Stuck valve in the valve body (TCC apply valve), Contaminated or degraded transmission fluid, Internal transmission hydraulic leak holding the clutch on, Wiring or connector fault to the TCC solenoid. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0742 on a Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have P0742 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0742 on 12 Chevrolet models: C/K 1500, Camaro, Colorado, Corvette, Cruze, Equinox, Impala, Lumina, Malibu, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe.