P0742 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
7 Dodge models · 8 documented issues · 3 critical · $150-$5,000 repair
P0742 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic can experience harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking, particularly when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. While generally reliable, some owners report shift quality concerns.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or jerky shifts
- Clunk when shifting from Park
- Hesitation during acceleration
- Rough low-speed operation
- Delayed engagement
How to Fix
Update transmission software to latest calibration. Transmission fluid change with ZF-approved ATF may improve shift quality. Adaptive learning reset may help. If severe, valve body inspection may be needed.
Sources for this issue (1)
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission can develop harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking when shifting gears. While generally reliable, some units experience valve body issues or adaptive learning problems that cause shift quality complaints.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or jerky shifts
- Clunk when shifting from Park
- Hesitation during acceleration
- Delayed engagement
- Slipping between gears
How to Fix
Perform transmission software update to latest calibration. Change transmission fluid with ZF-approved ATF. Transmission adaptive learning reset may help. If valve body is faulty, replacement may be needed. Avoid harsh driving until issue is diagnosed.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 42RLE 4-speed automatic in V6 Chargers suffers from solenoid failures and corrosion in the 10-pin solenoid harness connector. Causes slipping, harsh shifts, limp mode, and P0750/P0755/P0760/P0765 codes. Cup plug for park pawl anchor shaft can fail (recall).
Common Symptoms
- Slipping gears
- Harsh shifts
- Transmission stuck in limp mode
- P0750/P0755/P0760/P0765 codes
- Speed limited to 40 mph in limp mode
How to Fix
Install new design 42RLE 10-pin connector (dealer wiring repair). Replace solenoid pack. Verify park pawl recall completed. Use ONLY Mopar ATF+4 (68218058AC).
Sources for this issue (1)
The 62TE 6-speed automatic experiences solenoid pack failures and worn sealing rings. Slips during 1-2 or 2-3 shift, delayed engagement, unexpectedly shifts to neutral. Enters "limp mode" locking in 3rd gear.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission slips to neutral during 1-2 or 2-3 shifts
- Delayed engagement (2-3 seconds) into Drive or Reverse
- Transmission stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)
- Harsh or erratic shifting
- Engine stalls when shifting to Drive
How to Fix
Replace solenoid pack ($200-400). Worn sealing rings require transmission removal and internal repair. Always change fluid and filter first. Dealer diagnostics needed to identify failure point.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 68376696AA 62TE solenoid-pack assembly
Replace after scan data, wiring, pressure and pan inspection isolate the pack Fitment: 62TE-equipped Journey only; verify installed transmission and supersession Live direct US product page when checked
- Mopar 68218057AC ATF+4 fluid
Refill after correctly diagnosed 62TE service Fitment: Use the service-manual fill and level procedure; not a generic power flush Live Mopar direct-product page when checked
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Sources for this issue (1)
The 62TE 6-speed automatic experiences solenoid pack failures causing hard shifting, slipping, limp mode (stuck in 3rd gear), and complete failure. Contains 6 shift solenoids, 1 line-pressure solenoid, temperature sensor, and 5 pressure switches. Most frequent in 2012 and 2014 models.
Common Symptoms
- Hard shifting between gears
- Transmission slipping during acceleration
- Stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)
- Overheating transmission warning
- Delayed engagement from Park to Drive
How to Fix
Start with solenoid pack replacement: Mopar 68376696AA (or 5078709AB, D262420A, 68371508AA). If internal damage present, full rebuild ($2,500-$4,500). Use ONLY Mopar ATF+4 (68218058AC). Change fluid every 30,000 miles despite 'lifetime' claim.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 68376696AA 62TE solenoid-pack assembly
Replace the diagnosed solenoid pack before considering a rebuild when fluid and clutch testing show no internal damage Fitment: Vendor lists 2008-up Grand Caravan 62TE; confirm transmission tag and current supersession Live direct US pro…
- Mopar 68218058AC ATF+4 fluid
Approved replacement fluid after solenoid/filter service Fitment: Use the 62TE service-manual fill quantity and level procedure for the repair state Live Mopar direct product page when checked
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 (1)
The ZF 8HP45/8HP70 8-speed automatic suffers from harsh downshifts (especially 2nd to 1st), rough upshifts with RPM spikes, and clunking when cold. Ferrous or aluminum debris in 3-4 shift pressure valves is the primary failure point. Valve body is the most common component needing replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh downshift from 2nd to 1st with jerking
- Rough upshift from 2nd to 3rd with RPM spike
- Clunk when shifting, especially when cold
- Delayed shifts
- Transmission hesitation
How to Fix
Ensure TCM updated to latest software. Change fluid every 50,000 miles despite 'sealed for life' claim using Mopar 8&9 speed ATF (68218925AA) or ZF Lifeguard 8. Valve body replacement for persistent harsh shifting. Perform QuickLearn procedure after any transmission work.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0742 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 P0742 mean on a Dodge?
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 Dodge it is documented across 7 models: Durango, Charger, Journey, Grand Caravan, Challenger, Avenger, Nitro.
What are the most common causes of P0742?
The most common causes of P0742 are: 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. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0742 on a Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $150 to $5,000 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 P0742 on a different make?
View P0742 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.