P0742 on Dodge
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0742 on Dodge vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit stuck on. Au7o has documented this code across 8 Dodge models — most commonly on Avenger, Challenger, Charger. 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 Dodge range from $150 to $5,000, 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 Dodge by Model
Dodge Avenger(1 issue)
- 62TE Transmission Solenoid Pack and Valve Body Failure2008-2014
The 62TE 6-speed automatic suffers from solenoid pack failures, valve body issues, and hydraulic pump wear. Hard shifting, slipping, limp mode, and complete failure are common. The 6-speed is more problematic than the older 4-speed it replaced.
Dodge Challenger(1 issue)
- ZF 8-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting and Valve Body Failure2015-2023
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.
Dodge Charger(2 issues)
- 8-Speed (8HP) Transmission Harsh Shifts2015-2023
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.
- 42RLE 4-Speed Transmission Solenoid and Connector Failure2006-2010
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).
Dodge Durango(1 issue)
- 8-Speed (ZF 8HP) Transmission Issues2014-2023
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.
Dodge Grand Caravan(1 issue)
- 62TE Transmission Solenoid Pack Failure2008-2020
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.
Dodge Hornet(1 issue)
- 9-Speed Transmission Calibration Issues2023
The 9-speed automatic in 2023 GT models has calibration issues inherited from the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform. Hesitation, delayed upshifts, shuddering, and harsh downshifts. For 2024+, Dodge switched to the ZF 8-speed which is significantly improved.
Dodge Journey(1 issue)
- 62TE Transmission Slipping and Solenoid Failure2009-2020
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.
Dodge Nitro(1 issue)
- 42RLE 4-Speed Transmission Solenoid Failure2007-2011
The 42RLE 4-speed automatic suffers from solenoid pack failures and corrosion in the 10-pin connector. Same issues as Charger V6 42RLE. Causes slipping, harsh shifts, and limp mode.
Looking for P0742 on a different make?
View P0742 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0742 mean on 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 specifically, this code is documented across 8 models.
What causes P0742 on Dodge vehicles?▼
Common causes on Dodge: 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 Dodge?▼
Repair costs on Dodge range from $150 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Dodge models have P0742 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0742 on 8 Dodge models: Avenger, Challenger, Charger, Durango, Grand Caravan, Hornet, Journey, Nitro.