P0773 on 2011-2014 Kia Sportage: Shift Solenoid 'E' Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2011-2014 Kia SPORTAGE

The 2011-2014 Kia Sportage uses a 6-speed automatic transmission (A6MF1/A6GF1 family) that is known for shift solenoid failures. Kia acknowledged this weakness by issuing Technical Service Bulletin #TSBTRA051R1, which specifically lists P0773 as a common code. The bulletin advises technicians to replace the individual solenoids rather than the much more expensive transaxle assembly, indicating this is a frequent and well-documented repair on this platform.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Harsh or jerky shifting
• Transmission gets stuck in one gear (limp mode)
• Delayed gear engagement
• Transmission slipping, where engine RPMs rise without an increase in speed
• Transmission overheating

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Shift Solenoid 'E' 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Valve Body This is a widely recognized failure point on this 6-speed automatic transmission, as documented by Kia's own Technical Service Bulletin (TSBTRA051R1).
   How to confirm: A technician can use a scan tool to command the solenoid on and off to check for a response. The solenoid's electrical resistance can also be tested with a multimeter, either at the main transmission connector or directly at the solenoid after removing the valve body cover. 🎬 Watch: How to test solenoids and diagnose common Kia transmission issues.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty shift solenoid. Most technicians recommend replacing the entire set of solenoids at the same time since they are a known failure point and the labor to access them is the same. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to remove and replace shift solenoids.
   Est. part cost: $60-$300
2. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition via the dipstick (if equipped) or check plug. The fluid should be at the correct level, pinkish-red in color, and not have a burnt smell.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid drain-and-fill or a complete fluid flush if the fluid is dirty or low. If the fluid is very dark or contains metal particles, it may indicate a more severe internal transmission problem.
   Est. part cost: $50-$200 for fluid
3. Damaged Wiring or Connectors ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the external wiring harness leading to the transmission for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check for continuity on the solenoid's circuit using a multimeter.
   Typical fix: Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the corroded connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly While rare, the TCM itself can fail, sending incorrect signals or no signal to the solenoid. This is usually diagnosed only after all other possibilities (solenoid, wiring, fluid) have been ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Top off or replace if necessary.
2. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0773 is the primary code and check for any other related transmission codes.
🎬 Watch: A quick breakdown of what the P0773 code means.
3. Inspect the external transmission wiring harness and connectors for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
4. Using a professional scan tool, command the Shift Solenoid 'E' on and off to check for an audible click or response.
5. Test the resistance of the solenoid circuit from the main transmission connector using a digital multimeter. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications.
6. If the external wiring and resistance check out, the next step is to drain the transmission fluid and remove the transmission pan/valve body cover.
7. Visually inspect the internal wiring harness for any damage.
8. Remove and test the solenoid directly. If it fails the resistance test or does not actuate when 12v is applied, it is faulty.
9. Replace the faulty solenoid or the entire solenoid pack.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Automatic Transmission Control Solenoid (OEM #46313-2F000) — This is the component that fails most often, causing the P0773 code, as confirmed by a Kia TSB.
  Trusted brands: Kia (OEM), Rostra, TC Remanufacturing
  OEM price range: $70-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $60-$100

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0741 — Relates to the Torque Converter Clutch solenoid, which is part of the same valve body assembly.
• P0753, P0758, P0763, P0768 — These are codes for other shift solenoids (A, B, C, D). It is common for multiple solenoids to fail around the same time, and they are often replaced as a set.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSBTRA051R1: Addresses the replacement of various shift solenoids for code P0773 (and others) on 6-speed automatic transaxles, advising against replacing the entire transmission.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Kia issued Technical Service Bulletin #TSBTRA051R1 for multiple vehicles using this 6-speed automatic transmission, including the Sportage. It acknowledges that codes like P0773 are likely due to solenoid failure and advises replacing the solenoid(s), not the entire transaxle.