The transmission module divides input (turbine) speed by output speed and compares the result with the ratio of the commanded gear; a deviation means slip – a clutch or brake not holding, too little pressure – or a wrong gear. Thresholds: Ford more than 30 rpm off for 1.8 s three times (diesel 2023: over 20 % for 12 s), GM's 2006 tables and the Allison 1000 converter slip of 200–230 rpm for 2.25 s after one trip, Saab's Aisin boxes over 20 % twelve times without MIL. P0736 concerns reverse. The check needs reversing under load, so short manoeuvres are often not enough; a 2006 GM table sets it after 2 s of slip above 100 rpm without the diagnostic gear step used for forward gears. Slipping or delayed engagement of reverse, especially uphill, is typical; a worn reverse clutch or low/reverse brake is the usual cause.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
Symptoms
- Delayed or slipping engagement of reverse
- No reverse uphill or under load
- Transmission warning, limp mode, check engine light depending on manufacturer
Most likely causes
- Fluid level or condition
- Reverse clutch or low/reverse brake worn
- Valve body, shift valve or gasket
- Oil pump or pump cover
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: hard
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P0736 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- 36: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0736?
Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
What causes code P0736?
The most common causes are: fluid level or condition; reverse clutch or low/reverse brake worn; valve body, shift valve or gasket.
Related codes
- P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
- P0731Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
- P072BStuck in Reverse
- P0705Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit (PRNDL Input)
- P0721Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
Sources
- saabwisonline.com: dtc p0736
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 2006trans9
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 2006trans7
- newtonnet.co.uk: fordobd2012
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.