When you see a P0733 code pop up, what you’re really dealing with is your car’s computer flagging a problem in third gear. Over the years, I’ve seen this code come up more times than I can count, and it always means the transmission isn’t behaving the way it should when you hit third. To break it down: your car expects the engine and wheels to be in a certain rhythm-spinning at the right speeds relative to each other in third gear. When those numbers don’t line up, the system knows something’s off. Usually, this means your transmission is slipping or there’s a hiccup in how it shifts. The computer keeps tabs on all this using sensors, and when it notices a mismatch, it lights up your check engine light and stores the code. The main culprits? The transmission itself, the speed sensors, and the brains of the operation-the computer in charge of shifting.
DTC P0733
6153
6 minutes of readingCauses of P0733 engine code
From my time under the hood, I can tell you that the root causes for a P0733 code are often the same usual suspects. Nine times out of ten, low or nasty transmission fluid is to blame-people underestimate just how critical clean fluid is for proper shifting. I’ve also run into bad shift solenoids more times than I care to admit; they’re like traffic cops, directing fluid where it needs to go, and when they fail, everything goes sideways. Then there’s the internal stuff: worn clutches or bands can absolutely trigger this code. Don’t overlook the valve body either-if it acts up, you’re in for trouble. And here’s a classic: overlooked wiring problems. Corroded or loose connections can mimic much bigger issues. Every now and then, you’ll even see a faulty computer or software glitch stirring the pot. Here’s what I usually check first:
- Low transmission fluid level
- Dirty or contaminated transmission fluid
- Faulty shift solenoids
- Internal transmission damage (like worn clutches or bands)
- Valve body problems
- Electrical issues (damaged wiring, poor connections)
- PCM or TCM issues (software or hardware faults)
Symptoms associated with P0733 trouble code
When P0733 shows up, your car will start dropping hints right away. First, that dreaded check engine light is almost always going to stare you down. But that’s just the start. You might feel the transmission shifting funny-like it’s taking too long, slipping, or just refusing to drop into third gear smoothly. I’ve had customers tell me their cars felt sluggish, or the engine would rev up but the speedometer barely budged-classic signs. Sometimes, after a long drive, the car might stall when you come to a stop. Or you might even feel it misfiring, which can throw you off. Pay attention to anything that feels off with shifting or acceleration-chances are, it’s tied to this code.
How to diagnose dtc P0733
When I’m chasing down a dtc p0733, I always start with the basics. Pop the hood and check the transmission fluid first-make sure it’s topped off and doesn’t look or smell burnt. If it’s dark or has a burnt odor, that’s waving a big red flag. Next step: hook up a scan tool and pull not just p0733 but any other related codes. That can give you a big clue about what’s happening. Then I inspect the wiring and connectors at the transmission and sensors-it’s amazing how often a loose or corroded pin is the real troublemaker. If everything looks okay there, I’ll move on to testing shift solenoids and speed sensors, either with a multimeter or through the scan tool’s live data. If they’re working, it’s time to look at the valve body, and if you’re really unlucky, you might be facing internal transmission damage. Here’s a pro-tip: always have someone wiggle the harness while you check for intermittent connection issues. Don’t skip these simple steps before diving into the deep end.
Common mistakes when troubleshooting obd code P0733
A classic mistake I see-especially with DIYers-is jumping straight to the expensive fixes without looking at the basics. People will swap out solenoids or even drop in a new transmission, only to find out the real culprit was dirty fluid or a corroded connector. Don’t underestimate how often a bad wire or loose plug can mimic a major failure. And I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen an unnecessary transmission replacement when the issue was a simple sensor or an overdue software update. Save yourself the headache (and your wallet) by checking the easy stuff first-fluid, wiring, and sensors-before shelling out for big-ticket repairs.
How serious is the P0733 code
Let me be blunt: you can’t afford to ignore a P0733. When this code shows up, your transmission isn’t doing what it’s supposed to, and things can get ugly in a hurry. Keep driving with this issue and you risk making the slipping worse, overheating the transmission, or even total failure. That’s how you end up stranded on the side of the highway-or worse, losing power at the worst possible time. Parts like clutches, bands, and the torque converter are especially at risk if you keep pushing it. Take it from me: don’t put off addressing this code, or you’ll be dealing with a much bigger-and more expensive-problem down the road.
How to repair a transmission with P0733
Here’s how I approach fixing a p0733, step by step. Start with the fluid-if it’s low or dirty, change it and the filter, and refill to the proper level. Sometimes, that’s all it takes. If fluid isn’t your issue, test those shift solenoids and sensors next; replace any that are acting up. Don’t forget to go over all the wiring and connectors-repair or swap out anything that looks damaged or corroded. If you’re still stuck, the valve body might need attention, or even replacement. Occasionally, especially on newer cars, a PCM or TCM software update sorts everything out. Internal transmission damage is the last thing you want, but sometimes a rebuild or full replacement is the only answer. Always follow the factory repair manual for your ride. And don’t forget-this issue isn’t just a Chrysler headache; I’ve seen it pop up on Fords, Renaults, and other brands, too.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, p0733 means your car’s computer has caught third gear misbehaving-usually because the transmission is slipping or not shifting cleanly. Ignore it, and you’re asking for trouble, both mechanically and for your safety. The best plan? Always start with the simple stuff-fluid, wiring, sensors-before you dig into the deep end. Move fast and think methodically, and you’ll have your car back in fighting shape before things get really expensive.
