P0741 means the converter clutch does not lock although commanded – slip stays too high while the circuit is electrically fine. Thresholds: GM's T43 at least 130 rpm for 5 s twice, the 6T70 50 rpm for 5 s three times, Saab's Aisin AF40 over 100 rpm for 2 s, all after two trips; Ford over 100–200 rpm or a speed ratio below 0.93 over five lock-up events; Subaru engine speed more than 9/8 of target for 10.2 s. The module then locks out the clutch, sometimes the top gear, and uses a hot-mode shift pattern. Low or burnt fluid, a worn control valve in the valve body and a glazed converter clutch are the usual causes; Hyundai's 8-speed bulletin calls for a new converter.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?You can drive calmly for a few days, without towing or long climbs, because the extra heat speeds up wear. If you notice a burning smell or shaking from the transmission, stop and have the fluid checked.
Symptoms
- Check engine light or transmission warning
- Higher engine speed when cruising, 'rubber band' feel
- Higher consumption, rising fluid temperature
- Possibly shudder when the clutch applies
Most likely causes
- Fluid level too low, old or burnt fluid
- Converter clutch control valve worn or sticking, bore worn
- Lock-up clutch in the converter worn or glazed
- Solenoid mechanically sluggish (electrically fine)
- Leaking turbine shaft seals or pump
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 P0741 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- 41: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0741?
You can drive calmly for a few days, without towing or long climbs, because the extra heat speeds up wear. If you notice a burning smell or shaking from the transmission, stop and have the fluid checked.
What causes code P0741?
The most common causes are: fluid level too low, old or burnt fluid; converter clutch control valve worn or sticking, bore worn; lock-up clutch in the converter worn or glazed.
Related codes
- P0740Torque Converter Clutch Circuit/Open
- P0742Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
- P0743Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical
- P2758Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Control Circuit Stuck On
- P2763Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Control Circuit High
- P0711Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
Sources
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 19OBDG03C Diagnostics
- saabwisonline.com: dtc p0741 or p0742
- saabwisonline.com: dtc p0741 or p0742
- saabwisonline.com: dtc p0741 torque converter clutch circuit performa
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.