P0740 on 2005-2010 Chrysler Sebring: Torque Converter & Solenoid Guide

What's Unique About the 2005-2010 Chrysler SEBRING

The 2005-2010 Sebring spans two generations with different primary transmissions. The 2005-2006 models typically use the 4-speed 41TE (also known as A604) transmission, where P0740 is often caused by a failed and easily accessible solenoid pack. Later models, particularly V6 versions from 2007-2010, use the 6-speed 62TE transmission. For these 62TE-equipped cars, a Chrysler Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #9004009, also listed as 21-015-09) states that P0740 is highly indicative of a complete torque converter failure, not just a bad solenoid, if the solenoid itself tests okay. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: This range covers the end of the second generation (2005-2006, JR) and the entire third generation (2007-2010, JS). The 2nd gen primarily used the 4-speed 41TE transmission. The 3rd gen used the 41TE/40TES for 4-cylinder engines and the 6-speed 62TE for V6 engines (2.7L and 3.5L). The provided TSB is most relevant to the 62TE transmission found in 2007-2010 V6 models.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Vehicle jerking or slipping, feeling like driving over rumble strips at highway speeds. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
• Engine stalls when coming to a stop.
• Shuddering or vibration when the transmission should be shifting into overdrive or at cruising speeds.
• Noticeably worse fuel economy, especially on the highway.
• Transmission may enter 'limp mode', getting stuck in one gear.
• Engine RPM is higher than usual at highway speeds.

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Torque Converter 🔴 High Probability → Shop Automatic Transmission Torque Converter For models with the 62TE transmission (2007-2010 V6), TSB #9004009 explicitly states that if the TCC solenoid tests okay, the torque converter has failed. The internal clutch material wears out, contaminates the fluid with debris, and prevents lock-up. [7, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority] This is a widely documented failure on this transmission.
   How to confirm: After a technician confirms the TCC solenoid and its wiring are functioning correctly, the torque converter is diagnosed as the failure point. A scan tool monitoring commanded vs. actual TCC slip RPM is essential. Excessive metal shavings on the transmission pan magnet are a strong indicator of converter failure.
   Typical fix: Replace the torque converter. This requires removing the transmission from the vehicle. It is also recommended to replace the transmission pump and front seal at the same time.
   Est. part cost: $200-$600
2. Failed Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid or Solenoid Pack 🔴 High Probability → Shop Automatic Transmission Torque Converter For models with the 41TE transmission (2005-2006 and 4-cyl 2007-2010), the entire solenoid pack is a very common failure item and is externally accessible. For the 62TE, the individual TCC solenoid can fail, but it's much less common than the converter itself, and replacing it often does not fix the code.
   How to confirm: A technician can use a scan tool to command the solenoid on and off. A multimeter can also be used to check the solenoid's electrical resistance; for a 41TE, individual solenoids should measure around 1.0-2.0 ohms. For a 62TE, the TCC is a variable force solenoid (VFS) and may not have a simple resistance spec, but other solenoids in the pack should be 1.6-1.8 ohms. Visual inspection of the wiring connector for corrosion or fluid intrusion is also necessary.
   Typical fix: On a 41TE, replace the entire solenoid pack, which is mounted to the front of the transmission case. 🎬 Watch: How to replace the 41TE solenoid pack. On a 62TE, the TCC solenoid can be replaced individually after dropping the side pan, but this is often an unsuccessful repair if the converter is the true cause.
   Est. part cost: $55-$250
3. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly Fluid that is low, burnt, or contaminated with clutch material cannot provide the necessary hydraulic pressure for the TCC to operate, and can cause solenoids to stick or clog passages. Many owners report the issue appearing after a fluid change, possibly because the new fluid dislodged debris.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid dipstick for level and condition. The fluid should be bright red and not have a burnt smell. Chrysler vehicles require specific ATF+4 fluid. Using any other fluid can cause damage.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid and filter change. If the fluid is heavily contaminated with metal, it's a sign of a larger mechanical failure (likely the torque converter).
   Est. part cost: $50-$200
4. Wiring or Connector Issues ⚪ Low Probability The wiring harness leading to the transmission can become damaged or corroded, causing an open or short in the TCC solenoid circuit. The main connector can also become contaminated with transmission fluid, leading to poor connections.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage. A multimeter can be used to test for continuity and shorts in the circuit between the TCM and the solenoid.
   Typical fix: Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness or the connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failed Transmission Pump: → Shop Transmission Assembly The TSB mentions that in some cases, the transmission pump assembly may need to be replaced, as it is responsible for creating the hydraulic pressure needed for the TCC to function. Some mechanics recommend replacing it preventatively when replacing the torque converter on a 62TE. [7, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is a rare cause. The PCM should only be considered after all other possibilities (wiring, solenoids, and mechanical parts) have been exhaustively tested and ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Ensure it is filled with the correct Mopar ATF+4 fluid.
2. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0740 and check for any other related transmission codes like P0700 or P2764.
3. Inspect the transmission wiring harness and the main electrical connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
4. Using a professional scan tool, monitor the commanded TCC operation vs. the actual TCC slip RPM. A slip of more than 50-100 RPM when lock-up is commanded indicates a mechanical/hydraulic issue.
5. Test the TCC solenoid circuit for proper resistance and voltage using a multimeter, following the vehicle's service manual. For the 41TE, the solenoid pack connector is on the front of the transmission. For the 62TE, test resistance at the main connector.
6. If the solenoid and wiring test good, especially on a 62TE transmission, the fault is highly likely to be the torque converter itself, as per TSB #9004009. [7, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
7. Drop the transmission pan and inspect the magnet for excessive metal shavings. A large amount of metallic sludge points to torque converter or other internal component failure.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Torque Converter (OEM #68036990AD (For 3.5L 62TE)) — This is the most likely cause of P0740 on 2007-2010 V6 models with the 62TE transmission, as confirmed by a manufacturer TSB. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Luk, Florida Torque Converter
  OEM price range: $400-$700
  Aftermarket price range: $200-$400
• Transmission Solenoid Pack (OEM #5140429AA (replaces 5015646AC)) — For models with the 4-speed 41TE transmission, a faulty solenoid pack is a very common cause of this code. It is externally mounted and a frequent failure point.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Rostra, Dorman
  OEM price range: $215-$315
  Aftermarket price range: $100-$200

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0700 — P0700 is a generic code that means the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has stored a fault code. It almost always appears alongside more specific transmission codes like P0740.
• P2764 — This code for 'Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Control Circuit Low' is mentioned in the same TSB as P0740 and points to a similar set of problems with the TCC system on the 62TE transmission. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Chrysler TSB #9004009 / 21-015-09: States that for 62TE equipped vehicles, if the TCC solenoid tests okay, codes P0740 or P2764 are indicative of a torque converter failure. [8, [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]]

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A Chrysler Technical Service Bulletin (#9004009) for vehicles with the 62TE transmission (common in 2007-2010 V6 Sebrings) directly addresses code P0740. It advises that if the TCC solenoid's operation is verified as okay, the code points to a failed torque converter, which should be replaced. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TCC Slip Speed (Live Data) — expected: Near 0 RPM when TCC is commanded to lock.. Failure: A consistent reading over 50-100 RPM when lock is commanded indicates clutch slippage.
• Shift Solenoid Resistance (62TE Transmission) — expected: 1.6 to 1.8 ohms at 70°F.. Failure: A reading significantly outside this range, or one that differs greatly from the other shift solenoids.
• Line Pressure Solenoid Resistance (62TE Transmission) — expected: 4.8 to 5.1 ohms at 70°F.. Failure: A reading outside of this range.
• Solenoid Resistance (41TE Transmission) — expected: 1.0 to 2.0 ohms.. Failure: An open circuit (infinite resistance) or a reading significantly outside the expected range.
• Clutch Volume Index (CVI) - Scan Tool Data — expected: LC (Lockup Clutch): 16-25. Failure: A value outside of the normal range indicates a mechanical or hydraulic fault with the clutch pack.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Chrysler wiTECH or equivalent professional scanner: TCC Solenoid Test / Actuation — Allows a technician to manually command the TCC solenoid on and off to verify if the solenoid and its circuit are responding to commands from the PCM/TCM.
• Chrysler wiTECH or equivalent professional scanner: View TCC Desired Slip vs. Actual Slip — This live data is crucial. If the PCM desires 0 RPM slip but the actual slip is high (e.g., >100 RPM), it confirms a mechanical or hydraulic failure (likely the converter) rather than an electrical one.
• Chrysler wiTECH or equivalent professional scanner: Reset Adaptive Values & Quick Learn — This is a required procedure after replacing a valve body, solenoid pack, or the entire transmission to allow the TCM to learn the new component characteristics and ensure proper shift quality.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• TCC VFS Control Pin (62TE) — Pin 3 of the main transmission connector (C1).. This is the specific pin for the Torque Converter Clutch Variable Force Solenoid control circuit. It can be used to test for voltage, shorts, or opens between the TCM and the solenoid.
• Solenoid Power Supply (62TE) — Pin 10 of the main transmission connector (C1).. This pin receives power from the Transmission Control Relay and serves as the common power feed for multiple solenoids. It is the reference pin for resistance checks.
• Ground Straps — Various locations, including from the engine to the chassis and exhaust to the body.. A poor ground connection can cause a variety of electrical issues, including erratic solenoid operation and incorrect sensor readings, potentially triggering a P0740 code.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube Commenter on "P0740 62TE Transmission – Don't Replace the TCC Solenoid!" (Customer car with 62TE transmission and a TCC solenoid error code.) — Check engine light with a TCC solenoid code (likely P0740).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced the torque converter and front pump based on common advice that the converter is always the issue.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The TCC solenoid was the actual failed part. The code and slipping issue were only resolved after replacing the solenoid, which was a much cheaper and faster job.
• Car Talk Community Forum User (2002 Chrysler Sebring Convertible with 130,000 miles (41TE transmission).) — Check Engine Light with codes P0700 and P0740. No noticeable shifting problems, but RPMs were around 3000 at highway speeds.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) A shop replaced the solenoid assembly, but the light came back on a month later.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user did not post a final repair. However, the symptoms (high RPM on the highway) and the history (previous torque converter replacement) strongly suggest the torque converter clutch was not locking up, leading to poor fuel economy as the primary consequence. The discussion concluded that driving without lockup was possible but inefficient.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While the manufacturer TSB for the 62TE transmission strongly suggests P0740 indicates a failed torque converter, there are documented cases from owners and mechanics where the root cause was, in fact, the TCC solenoid itself. One owner reported going through the entire torque converter and pump replacement only to find the problem was the solenoid the whole time. This highlights that while the TSB provides strong guidance, it's not infallible. A thorough electrical diagnosis of the solenoid and its circuit should never be skipped, even on a 62TE, before committing to the major expense of a torque converter replacement.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 4504570AC, 5015646AB, 5015646AC → 5140429AA — Standard part evolution for improved reliability or manufacturing changes.
  Heads up: These part numbers are for the 41TE/40TE solenoid pack. 5140429AA is the most current replacement for the earlier versions.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2005-2006 (and 4-cyl 2007-2010): These models primarily use the 4-speed 41TE transmission. For P0740, the solenoid pack (PN 5140429AA) is a very common and accessible failure point.
• 2007-2010 (V6 models): These models use the 6-speed 62TE transmission. A manufacturer TSB indicates that P0740, when paired with a functional solenoid, points directly to torque converter failure, which is a much more involved and expensive repair. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]