P0742 on Ford
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0742 on Ford vehicles indicates torque converter clutch circuit stuck on. Au7o has documented this code across 8 Ford models — most commonly on Bronco, Bronco Sport, Explorer. 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 Ford range from $150 to $7,000, 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 Ford by Model
Ford Bronco(1 issue)
- 10-Speed Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting2021-2023
The 10R60 automatic transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed engagement when shifting, particularly from park to reverse when cold. Some vehicles skip gears during deceleration around 28 mph causing lurching.
Ford Bronco Sport(1 issue)
- Rear Drive Unit (RDU) Chatter and Shudder During Low-Speed Turns - AWD Models2021-2024
AWD-equipped 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport models exhibit rear drive unit (RDU) chatter and shudder during low-speed turning maneuvers, particularly when backing up and turning sharply. The issue is caused by fluid contamination in the rear drive unit's limited-slip clutch pack. Ford issued SSM 49571 (Special Service Message) documenting the condition as "chatter/shudder during low speed turning events." Multiple TSBs have been released addressing the issue, with the prescribed fix involving draining and refilling the RDU fluid, then performing specific drive cycles with controlled turns. No formal NHTSA recall has been issued for this defect. BroncoSportForum.com has an extended thread specifically about new rear axle assembly replacements covered under this TSM.
Ford Explorer(1 issue)
- 10R60 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting2020-2024
The 10R60 10-speed automatic transmission exhibits harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, slipping between gears, and erratic behavior. Ford identified that actuators in the transmission are sometimes too tight, causing abnormal shifts. The transmission adaptive learning can also cause issues when it incorrectly learns driving patterns.
Ford F-150(1 issue)
- 10-Speed Transmission Shudder/Harsh Shifts2017-2023
The 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission can develop a shudder during light acceleration, typically between 25-50 mph. This is caused by torque converter clutch issues and affects many F-150s. Ford has released multiple TSBs and fluid updates to address this.
Ford Freestar(1 issue)
- Torque Converter Shudder and Transmission Failure2004-2007
The Freestar inherited many of the Windstar transmission problems. The torque converter develops shudder during light acceleration, and the transmission can fail completely with forward clutch pack burn-up.
Ford Mustang(1 issue)
- 10R80 10-Speed Automatic Harsh Shifting and Hesitation2018-2023
The 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission exhibits issues including harsh or jerky shifting, gear hunting (constantly searching for the right gear), hesitation during acceleration, unexpected downshifts, and transmission whining. The transmission's aluminum outer shells can develop divots where clutches stick, causing erratic shifts. Multiple class-action lawsuits have been filed.
Ford Ranger(1 issue)
- 10-Speed Transmission Shudder/Harsh Shifts2019-2023
The 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission can develop a shudder during light acceleration, typically between 25-50 mph. Harsh or unpredictable shifts can also occur. This is the same transmission used in F-150s and has similar issues.
Ford Taurus(1 issue)
- AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure1996-2007
The AX4S and later AX4N automatic transmissions used in the Taurus are prone to premature failure due to torque converter clutch issues, valve body wear, and overheating. Common in high-mileage vehicles and those used for frequent stop-and-go driving.
Looking for P0742 on a different make?
View P0742 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0742 mean on Ford?▼
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 Ford specifically, this code is documented across 8 models.
What causes P0742 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: 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 Ford?▼
Repair costs on Ford range from $150 to $7,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Ford models have P0742 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0742 on 8 Ford models: Bronco, Bronco Sport, Explorer, F-150, Freestar, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus.