P0700 on 2013-2016 Dodge Dart 1.4L Turbo: TCM Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2013-2016 Dodge Dart

The 2013-2016 Dodge Dart with the 1.4L Turbo engine uses a Fiat-sourced C635 Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT). This specific transmission and its control module, developed jointly by Fiat, Magneti Marelli, and BorgWarner, are known to be problematic. The P0700 code on this car is very frequently caused by a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) itself, an issue so common that it prompted a manufacturer recall (NHTSA 15V-508). Unlike many cars where P0700 points to internal transmission wear, on the Dart, it's often an electronic failure of the TCM or a related component.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Transmission warning light may be illuminated
• Harsh, jerky, or erratic shifting
• Delayed gear engagement
• Vehicle gets stuck in one gear ('limp mode')
• Inability to shift or select gears
• Vehicle may fail to start or shift out of Park
• "Gear Unavailable" message on the instrument cluster
• Blinking gear indicator on the dash

Most Likely Causes

1. Failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The TCM is a known weak point. A recall (NHTSA 15V-508 / FCA R42) was issued for 2013-2015 models because the TCM mounting bracket could damage the module's circuit board, leading to failure and an unexpected shift to neutral. General electronic failure is also common, leading to codes like U0101 or P0613.
   How to confirm: Use an advanced scan tool. If the scanner cannot communicate with the TCM at all (often showing code U0101), or if it pulls P0700 from the ECM but specific internal fault codes like P0613 (TCM Processor Fault) from the TCM, the module itself is highly suspect.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Control Module. The new module must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN using a dealer-level scan tool via a 'Proxy Alignment' procedure to ensure it communicates with other vehicle modules.
   Est. part cost: $200-$800
2. Low or Weak Battery / Poor Grounds 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Vehicle Battery The DDCT and its control module are very sensitive to voltage. A weak or failing battery can cause insufficient power for the TCM to operate correctly, leading to communication errors and fault codes. The main powertrain ground on the driver's side frame rail is a known corrosion point on Darts, which can also cause these issues.
   How to confirm: Test the battery with a multimeter or electronic battery tester. A resting voltage should be above 12.4V, and charging voltage should be 13.5V-14.5V. Inspect battery terminals and the main chassis ground behind the driver's side front wheel for corrosion and ensure connections are tight.
   Typical fix: Replace the vehicle's battery (AGM type is recommended) and clean or repair ground connections.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300
3. Faulty Clutch Actuator 🟡 Medium Probability The DDCT uses an electro-hydraulic actuator unit (sometimes called a 'Smart Drive Unit') to engage and disengage the clutches. This unit, made by Magneti Marelli and BorgWarner, can fail, leading to shifting problems and triggering faults in the TCM.
   How to confirm: A specific TCM code (not P0700) will point to a clutch actuator performance issue, such as P1CC0 or P1CC2. Diagnosis requires an advanced scan tool to monitor actuator commands and positions.
   Typical fix: Replace the clutch actuator assembly. This is a complex job that requires special procedures to bleed and adapt the new unit.
   Est. part cost: $500-$1200
4. Damaged Wiring or Connectors ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness going to the TCM and transmission for any signs of chafing, corrosion, or damage. Pay close attention to the main connector at the TCM and check for blown fuses (e.g., F741 in the underhood power distribution center).
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or replace the faulty connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Internal Transmission Bearing Failure: → Shop Transmission Assembly

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for any open recalls for your vehicle's VIN, especially NHTSA 15V-508 (TCM) and 19V-293 (shifter bushing).
2. Using a scan tool capable of reading transmission codes, scan the TCM for specific fault codes. Do not rely on a basic code reader that only shows P0700 from the engine computer.
3. If the scanner cannot communicate with the TCM (U0101), check the TCM's power, ground, and communication circuits. The main powertrain ground on the driver's side frame rail is a common point of failure.
4. If specific codes are present (e.g., for clutch actuators, solenoids, or sensors), follow the diagnostic procedure for those codes.
5. Test the vehicle's battery and charging system. Ensure voltage is stable and within specification (above 12.4V at rest, 13.5-14.5V running).
6. Inspect the wiring harness and connectors to the TCM and transmission for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
7. If a new TCM is installed, it must be programmed to the vehicle using a compatible, high-level scan tool via a 'Proxy Alignment' procedure.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) (OEM #68210293AA (supersedes multiple previous part numbers including 68033642AB, 68192976AE, etc.)) — This is the most frequent failure point on this platform that causes a P0700 code.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $400-$800
  Aftermarket price range: $200-$600 (remanufactured)
• Car Battery (AGM Type Recommended) — The sensitive electronics of the DDCT require stable voltage, and a weak battery is a common cause of various transmission-related fault codes. Owners report frequent battery replacements.
  Trusted brands: Interstate, DieHard, Duralast
  OEM price range: $250-$350
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$300

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0101 — Indicates a loss of communication with the TCM. If you see this with P0700, it strongly suggests the TCM has failed or has a power/ground issue.
• P0613 — This code means 'TCM Processor Fault' and is a definitive indicator that the TCM itself has an internal failure and needs to be replaced.
• P1C99 — Relates to a 'Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit' fault. On the DDCT, this sensor is integrated into the hydraulic valve body, and Dodge does not sell it separately, often requiring a very expensive valve body replacement.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NHTSA ID 15V-508 (FCA Recall R42): TCM Mounting Bracket may damage the TCM, causing a shift to neutral.
• NHTSA ID 19V-293 (FCA Recall V34): Shifter cable bushing may detach, preventing gear changes.
• Manufacturer Service Bulletin #S2321000006: Notes that a "Service Transmission" message and P0700-E4 (MIL Request) may set in the system.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Recall NHTSA 15V-508 / FCA R42: A TCM mounting bracket on 2013-2015 Darts could fail, damaging the TCM circuit board and causing an unexpected shift to neutral.
• Recall NHTSA 19V-293 / FCA V34: The shifter cable bushing on the transmission end can deteriorate and detach, causing the shifter to move but the transmission not to change gears. This can lead to a rollaway risk. NHTSA has opened a query (RQ25002) to investigate failures of the recall remedy itself.
• The Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT) is known for being sensitive and requiring precise electronic control. Many owner complaints are related to its shifting behavior and reliability.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN Bus Resistance — expected: Approximately 60 Ω between CAN-high and CAN-low pins at the DLC or TCM connector (with battery disconnected).. Failure: A reading of 120 Ω indicates a break in one of the circuits or a missing terminating resistor. A reading near 0 Ω indicates a short between the two CAN lines.
• TCM Power Supply Voltage — expected: 12.0 - 12.6V at the TCM's power supply pin with the ignition on.. Failure: Voltage below 12.0V indicates a power supply issue (e.g., bad fuse, wiring) or a weak battery.
• Battery Charging Voltage — expected: 13.5V - 14.5V with the engine running.. Failure: Low voltage can cause intermittent and unpredictable behavior from the TCM and other modules.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH or advanced aftermarket (e.g., Autel, AlfaOBD): Proxy Alignment (PROXI Configuration Alignment) — This procedure is mandatory after replacing the TCM or any other major module on the CAN bus. It synchronizes the vehicle's configuration across all modules. A flashing odometer is a key indicator that a Proxy Alignment is needed.
• wiTECH or advanced aftermarket: Quick Learn / Clutch Relearn — After replacing the TCM or clutch actuator, this procedure is required to allow the new module to learn the clutch engagement points and shifting parameters. The vehicle may not shift correctly or at all until this is performed.
• wiTECH or advanced aftermarket: Hydraulic Circuit Bleed — This is necessary after replacing the hydraulic clutch actuator ('Smart Drive Unit') to purge air from the system.
• wiTECH or advanced aftermarket: Depressurize Hydraulic Circuit — Before beginning work on the hydraulic clutch actuator, this function pumps fluid back into the reservoir and depressurizes the lines for safer disassembly.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) — Inside the vehicle cabin, on the passenger side, behind the carpet near the front footwell area.. This is the physical location of the module that is the most common cause of the P0700 code. Technicians need to access it for testing power, ground, and CAN bus signals at its connectors, or for replacement.
• Main Powertrain Ground — On the driver's side frame rail, typically located behind the front wheel well liner.. This is a known corrosion point on the Dodge Dart. A poor ground here can cause a host of electrical issues, including intermittent power to the TCM, leading to U0101 and P0700 codes.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user on r/dodgedart (2013 Dodge Dart Limited 1.4L Turbo with DDCT, 138k miles) — Car wouldn't hold a gear, blinking gear indicator, 'Service Trans' message on dash, would shift to neutral while driving.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Took to Dodge dealer, who insisted it was a hydraulic pump, not the TCM. They replaced the pump for $800, but the problem persisted and they then quoted $5k for a new transmission., Took to a second independent shop, who also diagnosed it as a failed transmission and quoted $5-7k.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner retrieved the car and, based on their own research, replaced the 'Smart Drive Unit' (the electro-hydraulic clutch actuator). The part cost between $150-$300 and immediately fixed all symptoms.

Documented NHTSA Reports

• An owner reported in NHTSA ODI #11085068 that P0700 appeared alongside P0717 (input speed sensor 1 circuit no signal) and U1146 (communication error), indicating a transaxle control system malfunction.
• NHTSA ODI #11655418 describes a vehicle that failed to restart and was towed to a dealer where codes U0100 and P0700 were retrieved; despite flashing the computer, the failure persisted.
• In NHTSA ODI #10846349, an owner experienced a check engine light with codes P0700 and P0760, which initially led to a transmission overhaul including fluid and filter changes.
• NHTSA ODI #11492165 notes a case where a mechanic retrieved DTC P0700 and suggested a transfer case motor or snap ring failure, though the vehicle remained unrepaired.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68033642AB, 68192976AB, and at least 9 others → 68210293AA — Revisions to improve reliability and address failure modes that caused the original recalls and common issues.
  Heads up: The final part number for the 1.4L DDCT is 68210293AA. It supersedes a long list including 68033642AC, 68192976AE, and 68242643AA. Installing an older part number from a salvage vehicle may work temporarily but reintroduces the original design flaws. Always verify the latest part number with a dealer using the vehicle's VIN.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2013: The 2013 model year received a significantly higher volume of owner complaints regarding the engine, transmission, and electrical systems compared to the 2014-2016 models. This suggests early production models were more prone to the electronic failures that trigger a P0700 code.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• MultiAir 'Brick' Actuator Failure 🔴 High — Common, especially on vehicles with poor oil maintenance history or if run low on oil. Can occur at any mileage. (Ref: TSB #18-009-15 REV G discusses related fault codes (e.g., P106x).)
• Excessive Oil Consumption 🟠 Medium — Frequently reported by owners of the 1.4L Turbo engine. Directly contributes to MultiAir brick failure if the oil level is not checked and maintained regularly.
• Faulty Thermostat / Housing 🟠 Medium — Common failure causing Check Engine light (P0128) and overheating issues. The plastic housing is also prone to cracking and leaking.
• Shifter Cable Bushing Failure 🔴 High — Extremely common. The bushing deteriorates, detaching the cable from the transmission, leading to a no-shift/rollaway risk. The recall fix has also been reported to fail. (Ref: NHTSA Recall 19V-293)
• Chronic Battery and Electrical Problems 🟠 Medium → Shop Vehicle Battery — Owners report needing to replace batteries far more frequently than normal. The car's sensitive electronics are prone to issues from low voltage or bad grounds.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used 'Smart Drive Unit' (the electro-hydraulic clutch actuator) can be a cost-effective fix, as demonstrated by owner repair stories. Since it is a self-contained unit, if it works on the donor car, it has a high probability of working on the recipient car. A used transmission assembly can also be an option if a major internal mechanical failure (like bearing collapse) is confirmed, but this is rare.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 80000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• For a TCM: Ask for the VIN of the donor car to verify part number compatibility and check for open recalls.
• For a Smart Drive Unit: Visually inspect for leaks, cracks in the housing, or corrosion on the electrical connectors.
• For a complete transmission: Check the color and smell of the fluid if possible (though the DDCT is a 'filled for life' unit). Any signs of burnt fluid or heavy metal particles are a red flag.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) - While remanufactured units exist, a used TCM is a major gamble. It is tied to the original vehicle's VIN and configuration. While a Proxy Alignment can sometimes make it work, many shops report that used TCMs cannot be properly reprogrammed, leading to persistent issues. Buying a new, latest-revision OEM part is the only way to guarantee a fix.

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Generic, unbranded TCMs from online marketplaces. Many owners report these fail to program or have incorrect firmware, causing the vehicle to enter limp mode immediately.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• U0101 — Lost Communication with TCM — frequently accompanies P0700 when the TCM or its wiring fails completely.
• P0613 — TCM Processor Fault — an internal TCM error that often triggers the P0700 request in the engine computer.
• P1CC0 — Clutch Actuator performance code — indicates a mechanical or hydraulic failure in the DDCT actuator assembly.
• P1CC2 — Clutch Actuator performance code — specific to the DDCT system's electro-hydraulic 'Smart Drive Unit'.
• P106X — MultiAir actuator 'brick' failure codes — related to the 1.4L engine's variable valve timing system, often mentioned in TSB #18-009-15.
• P0128 — Thermostat performance code — a common failure on the Dart 1.4L platform due to faulty thermostat housings.

Frequently Asked Questions