P2764 on 2017-2020 Dodge Journey 3.6L: Torque Converter Solenoid & Failure Guide

What's Unique About the 2017-2020 Dodge JOURNEY

For the Dodge Journey equipped with the 6-speed 62TE transmission, this code has a specific diagnostic warning from the manufacturer. TSB #9004206 advises technicians that if the TCC solenoid itself tests okay, code P2764 is a strong indicator of an internal torque converter failure. This is a critical distinction, as many owners might replace the more accessible solenoid pack only to find the root cause was the more complex and costly torque converter all along. Furthermore, related technical bulletins like ATRA #1648 describe a classic symptom of this failure: the engine stalls immediately when put into Drive, but runs fine in Reverse, indicating the torque converter clutch is stuck in the 'on' position.

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
• Vehicle jerking or shuddering, especially during light acceleration.
• Transmission slipping, shifting erratically, or failing to shift at all.
• Engine stalling when coming to a stop or when shifting into Drive.
• Decreased fuel economy.
• Transmission overheating.
• Engine RPMs are high at cruising speed.

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Torque Converter 🔴 High Probability → Shop Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Manufacturer TSB #9004206 directly identifies torque converter failure as a primary cause for this code on 62TE-equipped vehicles when the solenoid is functional. The failure mode is often the clutch sticking 'on', which stalls the engine. The Mopar OEM part has been superseded multiple times, suggesting revisions to address a known weakness.
   How to confirm: After confirming the TCC solenoid and its wiring are good, a professional diagnosis focusing on torque converter clutch operation via a scan tool or by transmission removal and inspection is required. A key indicator is if the engine stalls in Drive but not Reverse.
   Typical fix: Replace the torque converter. This requires removing the transmission from the vehicle.
   Est. part cost: $200-$500
2. Faulty Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Automatic Transmission Torque Converter The solenoid pack is a common failure point in the 62TE transmission. It is an electro-hydraulic component that can fail electrically or become clogged with debris over time. Technical bulletin #1648 identifies a defective solenoid as a direct cause of P2764.
   How to confirm: A technician can perform a resistance test on the solenoid pins at the transmission connector. For the 62TE, the TCC (or EMCC) solenoid is tested between pin 10 (power) and pin 3 (control). The expected resistance is approximately 4.8-5.3 Ohms at room temperature. A reading significantly outside this range indicates a failed solenoid.
   Typical fix: Replace the individual TCC solenoid (Part #5169313AA) or the entire solenoid pack. This is located inside the transmission oil pan and may require removing the valve body for access.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300
3. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The 62TE is sensitive to fluid type and condition. Use of anything other than Mopar ATF+4 is known to cause shifting problems and potential damage. Additionally, a cracked shift shaft bushing is a known issue on these transmissions that can allow water and dirt to enter, contaminating the fluid.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. The fluid should be at the correct level, bright red, and not smell burnt or contain visible debris/water.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid and filter change using only ATF+4 fluid. If the fluid is heavily contaminated, a professional may need to investigate the source of contamination.
   Est. part cost: $50-$150
4. Damaged Wiring or Connectors ⚪ Low Probability Forum users have noted that the factory wiring on the Dodge Journey, particularly the gauge of the main power and ground cables, can be undersized, potentially leading to electrical issues over time.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the transmission main connector for any signs of fraying, corrosion, or damage. Test for continuity and proper voltage at the TCC solenoid control circuit pin (Pin 3 on the 62TE connector).
   Typical fix: Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness or the connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly While rare, the TCM itself can fail, causing incorrect voltage signals. This should only be considered after all other possibilities, including the torque converter, have been ruled out.
• Internal Valve Body Issues: → Shop Transmission Valve Body Wear or blockages within the valve body can cause hydraulic pressure issues that may trigger solenoid codes. This usually requires a transmission specialist to diagnose.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Ensure it is clean, red, and at the proper level. Use ONLY Mopar ATF+4 fluid if a top-off is needed.
2. Scan the TCM for any other related trouble codes, paying special attention to P0740.
3. Visually inspect the transmission wiring harness and main connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
4. Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the TCC solenoid circuit. Disconnect the main transmission harness connector. Measure the resistance between Pin 10 and Pin 3. The reading should be between 4.8 and 5.3 Ohms at ~70°F.
5. If the resistance is out of specification (open or shorted), the TCC solenoid is faulty and needs replacement.
6. If the solenoid circuit resistance tests good, the problem is likely intermittent, a wiring issue between the TCM and connector, or, most probable for this platform, an internal torque converter failure as per TSB #9004206.
7. Perform a stall test if you are a qualified technician. A common symptom is the engine stalling when shifted into Drive but not into Reverse, which strongly points to a mechanically stuck TCC inside the torque converter.
8. If all other components test good, the final step would be to diagnose the Transmission Control Module (TCM).

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Torque Converter (OEM #R8090720AI) — Per TSB #9004206, this is a highly probable cause of the P2764 code on this vehicle if the solenoid is functioning correctly. This part number supersedes numerous previous versions (R8090720AH, AG, AF, etc.), indicating a revised design.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $225-$450
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$350
• Transmission Solenoid Pack (OEM #68376696AA) — This is the second most likely cause, responsible for the electrical control of the TCC. It is a common failure item on the 62TE transmission. This part number is an updated version.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman, Sonnax
  OEM price range: $200-$300
  Aftermarket price range: $120-$200
• TCC Solenoid (Individual) (OEM #5169313AA) — If diagnosis isolates the failure to only the TCC solenoid, it can sometimes be replaced individually instead of the entire pack. ATRA bulletin #1648 lists this part for a P2764 fix.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $50-$90
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$60

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0740 — P0740 is a code for 'Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction.' It is often logged alongside P2764 as both relate to the operation of the TCC. The manufacturer TSB #9004206 explicitly groups these two codes together for the same diagnostic procedure.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 9004206: Advises that if the TCC Solenoid is operating correctly, codes P0740 or P2764 point to a torque converter failure on 62TE transmissions.
• ATRA Technical Bulletin #1648: Describes a P2764 scenario where the TCC is stuck 'ON', causing the engine to die in Drive but not Reverse, and suggests replacing the individual TCC solenoid (P/N 5169313AA) if it is defective.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2017-2020 Dodge Journey with the 3.6L engine uses the 62TE transmission, which is subject to Technical Service Bulletin #9004206. This bulletin specifically advises that codes P2764 or P0740, if not caused by a faulty solenoid, are indicative of a torque converter failure.
• The 62TE transmission has known wear issues in the 'compounder' (planetary gearset) section, where worn sealing rings can cause pressure leaks and shifting problems.
• It is critical to use only Mopar ATF+4 transmission fluid. Using other fluid types like Dexron or Mercon can lead to erratic shifting and premature transmission failure.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TCC (EMCC) Solenoid Resistance — expected: 4.8 - 5.3 Ohms at 70°F (21°C). Failure: A reading significantly higher (open) or lower (short) than the specified range.
• TCC Solenoid Circuit Voltage — expected: Variable voltage commanded by the TCM, typically a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal.. Failure: A constant low voltage (near 0V) or short to ground when not commanded, or no voltage when commanded on.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep Dealer Tool) or equivalent high-end bidirectional scanner: TCC Solenoid Actuation Test / EMCC VFS Solenoid Test — This command allows a technician to manually activate the TCC solenoid while monitoring circuit voltage and system pressure. It is used to verify if the solenoid is mechanically and electrically responding to commands from the TCM, helping to isolate the fault between the solenoid, wiring, and TCM.
• wiTECH or equivalent: Quick Learn Procedure — After replacing the solenoid pack, valve body, or entire transmission, this procedure is required to reset and relearn adaptive values for clutch volumes and shift timing. Failure to perform a Quick Learn can result in harsh or erratic shifting.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Transmission Main Connector — On top of the transmission, accessible after removing the engine airbox assembly.. This is the primary test point for the TCC solenoid circuit. Resistance is measured between Pin 10 (Power from Trans Control Relay) and Pin 3 (TCC VFS control) to test the solenoid's integrity without dropping the pan.
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) — Located inside the vehicle, under the driver's side dashboard, above the steering column.. This is the module that controls the TCC solenoid and logs the P2764 code. All wiring for the solenoid circuit terminates here, making it the final point for electrical diagnosis if the wiring and solenoid test good.
• G903 (Engine/Transmission Ground) — On the 3.6L engine, this ground point is located on the top of the transmission.. A poor ground connection at this point can cause a variety of electrical issues for the transmission and its sensors, potentially leading to incorrect voltage readings and fault codes like P2764.
• Engine Ground Stud — Located on the driver's side strut tower in the engine bay. The main battery negative cable and an engine block ground cable connect here.. Forum members have noted the factory ground cables on the Journey can be undersized. A poor ground path between the engine/transmission and the chassis can cause erratic behavior in electronic components, including transmission solenoids. Upgrading this ground is a suggested preventative measure.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user on r/subaru (vehicle with similar code logic) (2014 Subaru Forester 2.5L) — Check engine light with P2764, transmission wouldn't cruise at high speeds, jerky acceleration.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced the lock-up solenoid with an aftermarket part. The code returned after 3 weeks, even though the new solenoid's resistance tested within spec.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The final resolution was not posted in the thread, but another user strongly advised replacing the aftermarket solenoid with a genuine OEM part, noting high failure rates and incompatibility with aftermarket electrical components like solenoids.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Multiple previous versions (e.g., 68029389AA) → 68376696AA — This is an updated version of the solenoid pack for all 62TE applications from 2006 and up, designed to address a high failure rate in earlier parts.
  Heads up: While listed as a direct replacement, always verify fitment with the vehicle's VIN. Using a remanufactured part of an older design may lead to repeat failures.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2017-2020: While the core 62TE transmission is used across these years with the 3.6L V6, there can be minor calibration differences in the TCM software. It's always recommended to check for any available software updates, especially when addressing shift quality complaints. Trim levels (SE, SXT, Crossroad, GT) mainly differ in features and suspension tuning, but all use the same 62TE transmission when equipped with the 3.6L V6.