Pressure Control Solenoid "F" Control Circuit Low
P2738 indicates the transmission pressure control solenoid F circuit is receiving a voltage signal that is lower than expected. This solenoid regulates hydraulic pressure in the transmission, and low circuit voltage prevents it from operating correctly, causing the transmission to enter limp mode and shift improperly.
What You Might Notice
- Check Engine Light activated
- Transmission shifts hard or bangs into gear
- Transmission slips when shifting
- Transmission overheats
- Increased fuel consumption
Most Common Causes
- 1
Faulty pressure control solenoid F
The solenoid itself has failed or its internal coil is shorted, preventing proper electrical operation and causing low voltage at the circuit.
- 2
Wiring or connector issues
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors in the solenoid circuit reduce voltage delivery to the solenoid.
- 3
PCM or transmission control module failure
The powertrain control module may be unable to properly energize the solenoid circuit due to internal electrical faults.
- 4
Low transmission fluid
Insufficient transmission fluid level can affect solenoid operation and trigger the code even if the solenoid itself is functional.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Faulty pressure control solenoid F — The solenoid itself has failed or its internal coil is shorted, preventing proper electrical operation and causing low voltage at the circuit.
- 2
Check Wiring or connector issues — Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors in the solenoid circuit reduce voltage delivery to the solenoid.
- 3
Check PCM or transmission control module failure — The powertrain control module may be unable to properly energize the solenoid circuit due to internal electrical faults.
- 4
Check Low transmission fluid — Insufficient transmission fluid level can affect solenoid operation and trigger the code even if the solenoid itself is functional.
How to Fix It
- 1
Replace pressure control solenoid F
Remove the transmission pan or solenoid cover and replace the faulty solenoid F with an OEM or quality replacement unit.
- 2
Inspect and repair wiring and connectors
Check the solenoid wiring harness and connector for corrosion, damage, or loose connections. Clean connectors or replace damaged wiring as needed.
- 3
Check and top up transmission fluid
Verify transmission fluid level and condition with the engine running on level ground. Top up with the correct ATF specification if low.
- 4
Test PCM and reprogram if necessary
Use diagnostic scanning tools to verify PCM output voltage to the solenoid circuit. If voltage is correct but the code persists, the PCM may require reprogramming or replacement.
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