P0741 means the torque converter clutch (TCC) is either slipping when it should lock or stuck off. The fix starts with a scan tool check, then a fluid and solenoid check, before anyone replaces the converter.
The code name is the same across makes, but the causes differ. Some Honda and Acura bulletins cover this code directly, so check your VIN before paying for repairs.
What the p0741 Code Means
P0741 means the torque converter clutch is stuck off or slipping when the engine computer commands lock-up. Kelley Blue Book says the vehicle has detected that the TCC is performing outside normal specifications. The full name is Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance or Stuck OFF, as written in the NHTSA copies of the Honda and Acura bulletins. According to Kelley Blue Book, the powertrain control module sets the code when converter and transmission input shaft speeds do not match while lock-up should be engaged.
Sonnax, a transmission parts maker, describes P0741 as TCC stuck off. Its sister code P0742 is TCC stuck on, meaning the clutch does not release when commanded. In short, the first code flags a clutch that will not hold, and the second flags one that will not let go.
Code assignments can also split by gear. On GM 4L80-E transmissions, P0741 covers 3rd gear TCC slip and P1870 covers 4th gear. Check the service information for your exact vehicle before assuming which gear is involved.
Common Causes of p0741
Common causes of p0741 include a faulty TCC solenoid, a valve body fault, damaged wiring, and dirty fluid. According to Kelley Blue Book, the list of possible causes includes the following.
- A faulty valve body
- A faulty TCC or torque converter lockup solenoid
- A short in the TCC solenoid
- Damaged transmission wiring
- A faulty transmission control module
- A faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
- Restricted hydraulic passages caused by dirty fluid
Sonnax lists causes for GM 4L80-E units, including worn TCC valve bores in the valve body, a worn pump bearing seal, and defective TCC PWM or apply solenoids. It also lists a defective torque converter and a need for computer reprogramming. The same article recommends checking for computer program updates when diagnosing codes on late model vehicles.
The converter itself is one possible cause, not the only one. Honda and Acura describe a crack in the lock-up piston that lets pressure bleed down, which reduces the clutch holding force. Test the solenoid, wiring and fluid before deciding that the converter has failed. A broader control fault sets a different code, covered in the transmission control system warning code.
Symptoms You May Notice With p0741
The check engine light is the most common sign of this code, and drivers may also notice worse fuel economy or shifting trouble at highway speed. Kelley Blue Book lists these typical signs.
- Check engine light on
- Worse fuel economy
- Stalling
- Misfire-like behavior
- Trouble shifting into higher gears at highway speed
These symptoms are not a complete list, and they cannot show which part failed. The code scan remains the starting point, and the symptoms help you judge how urgent the problem is.
How to Fix p0741 Step by Step
Fixing this code starts with a scan, a bulletin check and a fluid check, and ends with a repair only when the evidence points to a part. For Honda Pilot and Ridgeline vehicles, Honda bulletin A23-078 says the corrective action is to confirm the DTC and replace the torque converter.
- Confirm the code with a scan tool and write down any other stored codes.
- Check whether a bulletin covers your vehicle. Both bulletins say an authorized dealer can run an iN VIN status inquiry to confirm eligibility.
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition at operating temperature. Both bulletins say ATF should be checked at 80 degrees C (176 degrees F) or higher, because a cold reading reads low.
- Inspect the TCC solenoid and its wiring. Kelley Blue Book lists a solenoid short and damaged wiring among the causes, so check these before replacing the converter.
- Check for computer program updates. Sonnax says this check is becoming mandatory on late model vehicles, and GM offers a free VIN lookup on its website for it.
- Replace the torque converter only if the bulletin covers your VIN or diagnosis confirms the converter. Then check the ATF level again, as the bulletins require.
Acura and Honda Torque Converter Bulletins
Acura and Honda bulletins from August 2023 tie this code to a cracked lock-up piston and call for converter replacement. You can read the full text of Acura bulletin 23-029 on NHTSA, which covers the 2017-18 RDX.
| Bulletin | Vehicles | Stated cause | Corrective action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acura B23-029, August 31, 2023 | 2017-18 RDX, all | Crack in lock-up piston | Check for DTC P0741, then replace the torque converter |
| Honda A23-078, August 31, 2023 | 2017-18 Pilot with 6AT, 2017-19 Ridgeline | Converter may not meet specifications, with a crack in the lock-up piston | Confirm DTC P0741 is stored, then replace the torque converter |
The labor operation in both bulletins includes clearing the DTC and aligning the converter. The Acura bulletin lists a flat rate of 6.3 hours for 2WD and 6.6 hours for AWD, while the Honda bulletin lists 7.2 hours and 7.6 hours. Fluid capacity at overhaul also differs, so use the figure for your vehicle. The Acura RDX lists 7.0 L (7.4 US qt) for 2WD and 8.0 L (8.5 US qt) for AWD, and the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline list 7.2 to 7.7 L (7.6 to 8.1 US qt) without AWD and 7.7 to 8.2 L (8.1 to 8.7 US qt) with AWD.
Both bulletins extend the torque converter warranty to 8 years or 150,000 miles from the original purchase date, whichever comes first. A vehicle bought in 2017 is already past the eight-year mark, so ask the dealer before assuming coverage. If the dealer confirms the converter has failed, torque converter replacement cost shows typical parts and labor prices before you approve the work.
Common Mistakes When Fixing p0741
Overfilling the transmission is the mistake the Acura and Honda bulletins warn about, since it increases foaming and contributes to overheating. Several other errors also waste time and money.
- Topping up ATF while the transmission is cold
- Replacing a converter without first confirming the code and the VIN eligibility
- Clearing the code and driving on without finding the cause
- Assuming a bulletin applies to your car without an iN VIN status check
Bulletin fixes have limits. The Acura bulletin applies when P0741 is set on the vehicle, and both bulletins say the procedures are intended for skilled technicians with the proper tools.
Is It Safe to Keep Driving With p0741?
Kelley Blue Book advises against long drives at high speed when p0741 is stored, and it recommends seeing a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Stalling and trouble shifting at highway speed are both listed symptoms, so a long highway trip with the code present adds risk.
If the car stalls or shifts badly, stop driving it and arrange a tow or a shop visit instead of testing its limits. If you are unsure how urgent the light is, read what a service engine soon light means first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does p0741 always mean the torque converter has failed?
No. Some Honda and Acura bulletins name a faulty converter, but Kelley Blue Book also lists a faulty TCC solenoid, valve body, wiring, control module, coolant temperature sensor and dirty fluid as possible causes. Scan first, then test those parts before deciding on a converter replacement.
Is p0741 the same on every car?
The code name is the same across makes, but causes and gear mapping vary. On GM 4L80-E transmissions, P0741 covers 3rd gear TCC slip and P1870 covers 4th gear. Check the service information for your exact vehicle to see which fault your car reports.
Will clearing the code fix p0741?
No. Clearing removes the stored code but not the cause. If the TCC solenoid, wiring or converter still has the fault, the code can set again. Repair the cause first, then clear the code and road test the car to confirm the fix.
How do I check if my Honda or Acura is covered?
Ask an authorized dealer to run an iN VIN status inquiry, as both bulletins instruct. The converter warranty runs 8 years or 150,000 miles from the original purchase date, whichever comes first, so older vehicles may fall outside it.
Do I need to check the transmission fluid for p0741?
Yes. Both bulletins say to check ATF when fluid temperature is at least 80 degrees C (176 degrees F). A cold reading shows low, so topping up to the top dot while cold leads to overfilling and foaming.
If your car is a 2017 or 2018 Honda or Acura showing p0741, ask the dealer for an iN VIN check before paying for diagnosis. Warranty coverage may have expired, so a written quote from an independent shop is the next step if the dealer declines.
