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P0745 Severity
Identifying an OBD code is just the start of a complete diagnostic routine. Most trouble codes are caused by a sensor reporting a value that is out of range. Just replacing a sensor may not fix underlying issues. Be sure to understand the code, the part or system in your car that the code refers to, and the risks of delaying professional repair.
Proper diagnosis will save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
Urgent codes indicate immediate action is necessary. These are urgent and significant malfunctions that can cause severe damage to the vehicle or harm the driver and passengers.
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) uses Pressure Control Solenoids to control the hydraulic pressure in the transmission which is needed to apply the various clutch packs in the transmission that provide the different gear ratios needed to efficiently propel the vehicle down the roadways. When the TCM detects a pressure control solenoid is not performing as desired, it will set code P0745.
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OBD-II Code P0745 is defined as a Pressure Control Solenoid Malfunction
The purpose of the automatic transmission is to match the engine's optimum power and torque characteristics to the driver's desired rate of acceleration and speed by auto-selecting different gear ratios or 'speeds' to power the wheels. The Pressure Control Solenoid controls the hydraulic pressure in the transmission which is needed to apply the various clutch packs in the transmission that provide the different gear ratios needed to efficiently propel the vehicle down the roadways.
When the code P0745 is set in the Powertrain Computer, it means that the Powertrain Computer or PCM is not seeing the specified electrical voltage drops from the Pressure Control Solenoid as it performs its tasks or, it sees correct electrical readings but the performance of the Pressure Control Solenoid is incorrect.
When diagnosing a P0745 code, it is important to record the freeze frame information and then to duplicate the code setting conditions with a test drive at the freeze frame road speed. Start out from a dead stop and gently accelerate. Watch the scan data to see if the PCM is commanding the Pressure Control Solenoid. It will be displayed as a duty cycle i.e. in a percentage that rises and falls in value. If the PCM is commanding the Pressure Control Solenoid with a higher and higher duty cycle and the transmission is not performing correctly, then you may have located the problem. Next step is to start doing pinpoint tests i.e voltage drops and continuity tests of the Pressure Control Solenoid. I generally back probe the wiring harness so I don't have to disassemble the transmission. If the electrical tests are within specification, then test the performance of the Pressure Control Solenoid using a pressure gauge. And, ALWAYS check the condition of the fluid. Is it dirty, brown and burnt or is it that clear cranberry color?