Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Incorrect Ratio in Gear 3
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic OBD-II powertrain code. It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles (1996-newer), although specific repair steps may vary depending on the model.
What does that mean?
Modern vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions / transaxles use a torque converter between the engine and transmission to increase the engine torque output and drive the rear wheels.
This code can appear in vehicles with an automatic transmission when there is a problem shifting into 3rd gear, or while driving in 3rd gear. The computer-controlled automatic transmission uses multiple gear ratios to increase vehicle speed while maximizing the power output from the engine. Newer vehicles may have more than four gear ratios to improve fuel economy. The computer determines when to shift up or down between gears based on throttle position vs. vehicle speed.
The Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), or Transmission Control Module (TCM) uses input from various sensors to verify the correct operation of the transmission and its components. Engine speed is often calculated against the transmission speed sensor to determine gear ratio and torque converter slip. If the calculation does not match the desired value, the Diagnostic Trouble Code is set, and the Check Engine Lamp is illuminated. Incorrect ratio codes typically require advanced mechanical ability and diagnostic tools.
Note: This code is similar to P0730, P0730, P0731, P0732, P0734, P0735, and P0736. If there are other transmission codes, repair those problems first before proceeding with an incorrect gear ratio code.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0733 trouble code may include:
Potential Causes
Possible causes of this DTC may include:
Diagnostic & Repair Steps
Always be sure to check fluid level and condition before proceeding with further diagnosis. Improper fluid level or dirty fluid can cause shifting issues that affect multiple gears. If only one incorrect ratio code is being displayed, test drive the vehicle to determine if the gear is actually working.
The transmission’s internal clutches and bands are usually controlled by a solenoid or using fluid pressure. If there is an electrical issue with a shift solenoid, a code specific to that fault should also be displayed. Correct the electrical issue before proceeding further. Blocked fluid passage inside the transmission can also cause the vehicle to not shift into 3rd gear. If there are multiple incorrect ratio codes but the transmission performs as expected, there could be a mechanical issue with the torque converter, transmission main control, or pressure problems.
If there are multiple incorrect ratio codes and shift issues, but not all are displayed, the fault may be a mechanical issue internal to the transmission or a fluid pressure / blocked passage in the main control. A shift solenoid that controls multiple gears can also be at fault if there is an internal blockage or fluid pressure problem. If there is an electrical problem with the solenoid that controls the gears, a code should be displayed specific to the faulty solenoid.
It may be necessary to use an advanced diagnostics scan tool to determine which gear is being commanded by the transmission and to determine if the engine speed matches the calculated output speed from the transmission sensor.
Repairing this type of malfunction often requires advanced knowledge of transmission operation and overhaul. Consult the factory service manual for vehicle-specific diagnostic procedures.
