P2736 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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You may find it rather daunting to figure out what an OBD code means, and several questions may pop in your mind. Well, we have the answers for you, so read on and don’t worry. The P2736 code is defined as a Pressure Control Solenoid "F" Control Circuit/Open. This code is set when the Transmission Control Module (TCM) of your vehicle notices that the Pressure Control Solenoid isn’t working as needed.

The TCM helps your vehicle to transmission into different gears so that you can have a smooth ride in your vehicle. The TCM employs the Pressure Control Solenoid to be able to control the hydraulic pressure within the transmission. This is needed so that the various clutch packs can be applied which then enable the various gear ratios to be applied so that the vehicle can efficiently propel on road. The PC solenoid is basically an electronic pressure regulator, and controls the transmission line pressure as per the current flow through its coil windings. When the current flow increases, the magnetic field produced moves the solenoids plunger further away from the exhaust port, which ultimately decreases the output fluid pressure. This then results in a decrease in line pressure, the line pressure solenoid valve is responsible for regulating oil pump discharge pressure. This is done to suit the drivers need and respond to the signals from the TCM. Any issues noticed result in the P2736.

What causes this problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid "F" Control Circuit/Open?

• Defect found in the Pressure Control Solenoid
• Dirty fluid or some contamination present in the fluid
• The transmission filter has become dirty or clogged
• Defectiveness of the Transmission Pump
• Defectiveness of the Transmission Valve Body
• Blockage in the hydraulic passages
• Connector is corroded or damaged
• Fault in the wiring or the wiring has become damaged
• Problematic PCM module

1. Transmission Control Module - Is the main module that helps change the gears so that the vehicle can move smoothly. A TCM fault can very much cause error code P2736 to set. In order to fix this issue, you will have to either repair or replace the TCM. Find the perfect fitment TCM for your vehicle today on PartsAvatar. Order online from the comfort of your home and have it reach your doorstep in just days!
2. Oil Pump - The oil pump helps in circulating the engine oil under pressure to the rotating bearings, the sliding pistons and the camshaft of the engine. This process helps lubricate the bearings and thereby allows use of higher-capacity fluid bearings and also assists in cooling the engine. A faulty pump can be the reason why you have the P2736 code set. Fix this problem via repairs and see if the code persists, if it does; then you will have to opt for replacement. You can choose from a wide range of brands and prices to get the one suiting your budget and quality. PartsAvatar ships to the remotest corners of Canada.
3. Pressure Control Solenoid Valve - It controls the fluid pressure to the internal friction plate clutches or drum bands of your vehicle. A poor or failing transmission pressure control solenoid can cause multiple issues like slipping, which causes the transmission to heat up. You will also note the P2736 code to set due to a faulty PC solenoid valve. Try to fix the problem by repairs or replacement as needed.
4. Transmission Pump - Is the pump that helps in circulating the fluid. A faulty pump can harm the whole TCM. Try to fix the problem via repairs or replace it.
5. Powertrain Control Module - Is the center of your vehicle which manages all the other modules so that your car functions smoothly. A faulty PCM can result in random codes to be set, so try to fix it first. If that doesn’t help you will have to replace it. Replacing the PCM requires reprogramming. Ensure you take help from a professional diagnostician for this. Find what you’re looking for on PartsAvatar and avail free shipping on orders over CAD $99.
6. Transmission Valve Body - Is a significant part of the TCM and works in a network system. It directs pressurized transmission fluid to a network of valves which put together correct clutch packs for smooth gear functioning. You will have to resolve the issue with the transmission valve body to get rid of the P2736 code. You can find one on PartsAvatar, order online and track your shipment till it reaches your doorstep.

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Code P2736? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:

Common Symptoms

• The vehicle i put into limp mode
• The Transmission slips when shifting
• Overheating of the transmission
• The Transmission catches during gear shifts
• The fuel economy has become low
• Some misfire-like symptoms are present
• The Check Engine Light is turned on to warn the driver
• Significant increase in the fuel consumption
• Transmission is not able to shift properly

Learn the ways with which you can correct this trouble code:

• Change the fluid and fix the filter
• Repair or replace the faulty Pressure Control Solenoid
• Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission pump
• The defective transmission valve body may require repairs or replacement as per extent of damage
• Flush the Transmission in order to clean passages
• Clean the corrosion from connectors
• Repair or replace all the faulty wiring, circuitry and connectors
• Flash or replace the entire PCM

Apart from this, you might need to replace other damaged parts too like Pressure Control, pressure regulator, TCM, Oil pump, PC solenoid valve, Transmission Pump, PCM, Transmission Valve Body, TSB and more. You can easily find all these parts with us. Not only that you can get these parts shipped to your door free, if your cart value happens to exceed $99.

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P2736 code to be stored:

The first step in diagnosis is to get together all the tools you will need to perform the diagnosis without any delay. So, get a hold of an OBD scanner, and a digital volt/ohmmeter. Now that you have everything you need; you are ready to begin your diagnosis.

Be careful and perform a thorough inspection of the transmission fluid dipstick. The fluid should be at the optimum level and below it. It should also be clean and free from contamination, dirt and debris. To find out the correct level needed, refer to the manual provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer. If you find that the fluid is smelling odd, or burnt you have to consider it inadequate and change it. Burned fluid is a sign that the transmission was working with low level of fluid. There may have also been some internal damage to the transmission caused due to this. If you find that the transmission fluid is good, but the level of it is low, then you simply have to add more and see if there’s any leak and accordingly fix it.

Once you have done that, test your repairs by letting the vehicle reach normal operating temperature and go on a test drive and see if the code returns

Now remove the transmission pan and see if there is any clutch material present apart from dust and debris that may have accumulated. In case you are able to find such clutch material, you will have to go for a rebuild, fluid flush as well as replacement. A new torque converter will also become important to be gotten. This will enable the transmission to work properly. In case you have found no debris present, then you need to move on to the next step.

Perform a thorough visual examination of the wiring and circuitry and see if there are any damages present. Continue inspection of the connectors and see if the pins are corroded, bent or damaged. Check the wires and connectors going to the transmission pressure solenoids, transmission pump as well as the PCM. Depending on the type of vehicle the transmission pump may be driven electrically or mechanically. Fix all the issues you have found by conducting repairs or replacements as required. You may need to replace the full internal transmission harness if there are issues noted.

In case the wiring and circuitry is fine, you will have to connect the OBD scanner and retrieve all the codes set and freeze frame the data. Ensure you make a note of all the codes as reference for any intermittent conditions that may be present. Now clear the codes and go on a test drive to see if the code is immediately reset or if the PCM enters readiness mode. In the case of the latter there may be an intermittent condition. If the former happens you will have to continue your diagnosis.

In case the transmission is functioning fine and the code doesn’t return then it may be caused due to transmission slippage, this happens when there is a low fluid level/pressure present. In case the code returns and the transmission also slip then you will have to check the pressure of the pump. For this you will need a manual pressure gauge. Find the hydraulic pressure diagram for your vehicle and attach the end of the gauge into the correct opening on the transmission housing to be able to record the pressure. Now compare the findings you have with that of the manufacturer and see if they are correct. Accordingly, you will need to perform repairs. If there’s an issue with the pump you will need to replace it which means that you will have to remove transmission and also do a partial disassembly.

If the code returns immediately after starting the engine and the transmission is operating fine then you will need to check the reference voltage as well as ground signals present at the electronic pressure control solenoid in focus. Upon inspection if you find that either the reference voltage or ground circuits are open, then you will have to employ the DVOM and check continuity and resistance in all of the circuits. For this disconnect all the related control modules from the circuit, otherwise you risk controller damage.

Now perform repairs or replacement of all the system circuits/connectors as needed and perform a retest of the system. The manufacturers wiring diagram will help you in testing the related circuits and the solenoid as well, for resistance as well as continuity. See if the findings are in congruence with the manufacturer's specifications. All the system circuitry, connectors etc. which are damaged will have to be replaced or repaired.

In order to ensure that the repairs have been successful; retest the system. If you have noted that all the circuits are intact then connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector and try to manually activate the electronic pressure control solenoid. In case you find that the control solenoid is functioning fine, and all the circuits are perfect, you may have a defective high-pressure pump or torque converter or PCM.

Even though PCM failure is a rarity, it may happen and will require a professional to do reprogramming. In case the electronic pressure control solenoid is unable to activate manually, you will have to replace the solenoid and retest the TCM.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2736 Code

• Engine misfire problem
• Transmission pump problem
• Internal transmission problem
• Driveline problem