In order to move clutch packs and other transmission parts, modern automatic transmissions employ little spring-loaded devices called pressure control solenoids. There are designed to maintain the hydraulic pressure needed to change gears. If the ECU notices a problem with pressure control solenoid labeled F, it will save a P2731 DTC.
What Transmission Do I Have?
How Serious is the Code?
Having a P2731 diagnostic trouble code indicates that the computer cannot set the correct amount of hydraulic pressure needed to actuate a gear change. If this is the case, a number of transmission problems will occur, including slipping, harsh shifts and engine stalling.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P2731 include:
- Harsh, delayed or erratic shifts
- Slipping in-and-out of gear
- Getting stuck in gear
- Vehicle won’t move when in gear
- Engine stalls
- Reduced fuel economy
- Transmission overheats
- Limp mode
Causes
- Low transmission fluid
- Dirty transmission fluid / filter
- Frayed wiring / damaged connectors
- Failed pressure control solenoid
- Failed transmission pump
- Pressure blockage
- Valve body issue
- TCM or ECU failure
How to Diagnose the Code?
Because transmission fluid is used to move all of the transmission parts around, condition and level of it should be the first thing considered when diagnosing a P2731 OBDII diagnostic trouble code. The next thing that should be checked is wiring and connectors on the transmission wiring harness. If no broken wires or damaged connectors are found, then the pressure control solenoid itself will have to be checked. The valve body, transmission pump and the ECU are also possible suspects.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Repairs Will Fix P2731?
- Service/flush the transmission
- Replace pressure control solenoid
- Repair defective transmission valve body
- Install a remanufactured valve body
- Transmission flush to clean passages
- Cleaning corrosion from connectors
- Repairing or replacing wiring
- Flashing or replacing PCM
Related Codes
- P2732 – Pressure Control Solenoid F Perf or Stuck Off
- P2733 – Pressure Control Solenoid F Stuck On
- P2734 – Pressure Control Solenoid F Electrical
- P2735 – Pressure Control Solenoid F Intermittent
- P2736 – Pressure Control Solenoid F Ctrl Circ/Open
