P2769 on Toyota: How to Diagnose & Fix
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Low
2 Toyota models · 2 documented issues · $150-$2,500 repair
P2769 on Toyota by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The A750F 5-speed automatic behind the 4.0L V6 develops a distinct shudder/judder felt as a vibration typically between roughly 35-50 mph under light throttle when the torque converter clutch engages during 'Flex Lockup.' It is caused by aged/degraded Toyota WS fluid losing its friction modifier, producing a stick-slip grab of the lockup clutch; in higher-mileage cases the converter clutch itself has failed. It is frequently confused with an engine misfire because it feels identical.
Common Symptoms
- Vibration or shudder felt around 35-50 mph under light load
- Feels like driving over rumble strips
- Occurs during light acceleration or steady cruise
- Often mistaken for engine misfire
How to Fix
A full transmission fluid service (either a flush or several drain-and-fill cycles) of Toyota WS fluid resolves most fluid-related cases. If the fluid is clean and the shudder persists, the torque converter must be replaced.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Toyota 00289-ATFWS genuine World Standard automatic transmission fluid
conditional fluid service after level/condition diagnosis—not a guaranteed torque-converter repair Fitment/availability: Genuine Toyota WS fluid; use only where the exact FJ Cruiser VIN/transmission repair manual specifies WS, and determ…
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Sources for this issue (3)
Toyota T-SB-0023-15 Rev2 applies to certain 2013-2015 RAV4s with the 2AR-FE engine produced before plant-, drivetrain- and VIN-specific changes. The documented condition is a brief intermittent shudder under light load at approximately 25-50 mph, most noticeable before an upshift. Toyota attributes the repair path to modified torque-converter clutch hardware and ECM logic. The bulletin does not list the prior P0741/P2769/P2770 codes as eligibility criteria; similar vibration can instead come from tires, axles, mounts, engine misfire or another transmission fault.
Common Symptoms
- Brief intermittent shudder under light load at approximately 25-50 mph
- Shudder is most noticeable immediately before an upshift
- Condition matches Toyota's bulletin drive pattern on a pre-production-change VIN
How to Fix
Have a qualified Toyota transmission technician reproduce the exact light-load 25-50 mph condition, confirm the VIN is before the applicable production change and rule out other vibration sources. When T-SB-0023-15 Rev2 applies, Toyota's procedure removes and replaces the torque converter clutch, services the specified pan components and Toyota WS fluid, and then updates the ECM calibration. Do not approve a converter, fluid exchange or reflash from symptoms alone. The original powertrain warranty and ZH1 extension are expired, so request the diagnosis, calibration status and complete written scope before authorizing repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Toyota 04004-48106 converter assembly kit
replace the failed flex-lock-up torque converter after the bulletin diagnosis is confirmed Fitment/availability: Exact torque-converter kit named by T-SB-0023-15 Rev2 for an eligible 2013-2015 RAV4 2AR-FE after VIN, production and sympto…
- Toyota 00289-ATFWS genuine WS automatic transmission fluid, one quart
refill the transmission with the bulletin-specified fluid after converter replacement Fitment/availability: Exact Toyota WS fluid specification used by T-SB-0023-15 Rev2; bulletin quantity is 5.4 quarts, so six one-quart bottles are need…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipRecord speed, throttle position, gear-change timing and whether the vibration disappears when load changes; that helps distinguish the bulletin shudder from tire, axle or engine vibration.
- WarningThe bulletin repair is a matched converter-and-calibration procedure after confirmation, not a generic fluid-additive or reflash-first experiment.
Sources for this issue (2)
P2769 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 P2769 mean on a Toyota?
P2769 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Low." A generic OBD-II transmission code indicating the control module saw a low-voltage condition on the torque converter clutch solenoid control circuit. The TCC solenoid is what locks the torque converter into direct drive at cruising speed for efficiency, so when the circuit fails the converter may not lock or may lock erratically. Common driver complaints are shudder or slipping under light acceleration, delayed shifts, higher RPM at highway speed, worse fuel economy, stalling when coming to a stop, and possible transmission overheating. Some references rate this code as high severity because the module loses control of the converter. On Toyota it is documented across 2 models: FJ Cruiser, RAV4.
What are the most common causes of P2769?
The most common causes of P2769 are: Failed torque converter clutch solenoid, Shorted, chafed, or open wiring in the transmission harness, Corroded or water-intruded transmission case connector, Low or badly degraded transmission fluid, Internal valve body or transmission fault, Faulty transmission control module (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P2769 on a Toyota?
Published repair estimates on Toyota range from $150 to $2,500 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 P2769 on a different make?
View P2769 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.