P0746 code — how to fix error fast

One of the worst error codes you can diagnose in your car is the P0746 code and for a good reason. This one poses a real threat to your car’s transmission system, and yet many drivers are ignorant of the P0746 code meaning and how it truly affects your ride.

Don’t worry – we’ve assembled a guide filled with necessary steps to take when diagnosing and fixing the code so you can have an easier time figuring things out. Our team of automotive enthusiasts has worked tirelessly to deliver all the key info on the code, so let’s get straight to it.

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What does the P0746 code mean?

The P0746 code is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a problem with the pressure control solenoid in the transmission. This solenoid is responsible for regulating the hydraulic pressure in the transmission. When the solenoid is not functioning correctly, it can cause a number of issues, such as slipping gears, overheating, and reduced fuel efficiency.

The key word here is “hydraulic pressure” since the transmission system in most cars uses transmission fluid to operate properly. So, anything that concerns a lack of fluid or inconsistent pressure within the transmission system is bad news for one of the most vital systems in your vehicle.

What causes the P0746 code?

There are a number of possible reasons behind the code P0746, and these all include crucial components of the transmission system. Here’s a list of some of the main reasons why your car may live through the P0746 code being read:

Faulty pressure control solenoid

The most common cause of the P0746 code is a faulty pressure control solenoid. Over time, the solenoid can become worn or damaged, which can cause it to malfunction. If it does, the inconsistency in fluid pressure reading may lead to unpredictable gear shits, rough shifting, and even a slipping transmission.

Low transmission fluid

Low transmission fluid can also cause the P0746 code to appear. When the fluid level is low, it can cause a drop in hydraulic pressure, which can trigger the code.

Dirty transmission fluid

If the transmission fluid is dirty or contaminated, it can cause the pressure control solenoid to malfunction. This is because the solenoid relies on clean fluid to function properly.

Wiring issues

Wiring issues can also cause the P0746 code to appear. If there is a problem with the wiring that connects the pressure control solenoid to the transmission control module, it can cause the solenoid to malfunction.

Which car models does the P0746 code affect the most?

It’s worth noting that almost all car models may also be affected by the P0746 code, as this issue can arise due to a variety of reasons. However, our team was able to go through the reports to find a few car models that are more likely to struggle with this issue:

• Nissan Pathfinder: The 2013 and 2014 Nissan Pathfinder are also prone to experiencing problems with the solenoid, which can cause the P0746 code to appear.
• Infiniti JX35/Q60: These models, produced between 2013 and 2015, can also be affected by issues related to the transmission fluid pressure control solenoid.
• Nissan Maxima: The 2013 Nissan Maxima is another model that has been known to experience issues related to the transmission fluid pressure control solenoid.

How to diagnose the P0746 code

It’s true that there are many possible reasons behind this code, as you could see already in this guide. The good news is – there are ways you can diagnose them all land here’s what it all looks like in practice:

Visual inspection

The first step in diagnosing any car issue is a visual inspection. Your mechanic may check for signs of damage or wear and tear in the transmission system, including leaks, damaged wiring, or corroded connections.

Transmission fluid pressure test

You can perform a transmission fluid pressure test to determine if the pressure is within the manufacturer’s recommended range. If not, this could indicate a problem with the transmission fluid pressure control solenoid.

Perform a solenoid resistance test

Another check you can perform is the resistance test to measure the electrical resistance of the transmission fluid pressure control solenoid. This can help identify if there is an issue with the solenoid itself.

You can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the solenoid and see its capacity before determining if that’s the root cause of your troubles.

Transmission line pressure test

It’s best to leave this one to an experienced professional since your mechanic may know how to perform a transmission line pressure test to measure the hydraulic pressure in the transmission system. If the pressure is not within the manufacturer’s recommended range, this could indicate an issue with the solenoid or other components in the transmission system.

How to fix the P0746 code

Once that’s done and you’ve successfully diagnosed the code and the main reason behind it, it’s time to move on with solving time. Here are some of the most effective fixes for the issue that you can apply:

Replace the fuel pressure solenoid

If the issue is related to a faulty or damaged solenoid, replacing it may solve the issue. This can be a relatively simple fix and involves removing the old solenoid and installing a new one. It’s still best to leave this one to an experienced mechanic and the fixing cost will most likely be in the range between $140 and $300 depending on the model.

Repairing the wiring and connections

If the issue is related to damaged wiring or corroded connections, the mechanic may recommend repairing or replacing these components. This can be a more involved process as it may require locating and repairing any damaged areas of wiring.

Replacing the transmission valve body

In some cases, the issue may be related to a malfunctioning transmission valve body. If this is the case, you can resort to replacing the entire valve body, and that’s why this fix is one of the rarest ones, but it’s still possible.

How to prevent the P0746 code

Preventing the P0746 code from appearing requires proper maintenance of the transmission system. Here are some tips to help prevent the code:

• Regularly check the transmission fluid level and top it off if necessary.
• Change the transmission fluid at the recommended intervals.
• Use high-quality transmission fluid.
• Avoid towing heavy loads or driving aggressively.
• Have your transmission system inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic.

By following these preventative measures, you can help ensure that your transmission system stays healthy and free from the P0746 code.

Our take

Overall, the whole trouble with the code P0746 is that it affects a vital system of your car and you won’t know how to solve it unless you get at least some insight into what the solenoid does. That’s why we are confident that you are now fully prepared to tackle the issue and repair or replace a faulty component that’s causing the code without having to do a complete transmission rebuild.