GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0736:  Incorrect Reverse Ratio

Diagnostic Fault Information

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit/System Description

The clutch pressure control (PC) solenoid 2 flows fluid to the 3-5-R clutch when commanded OFF and exhausts fluid when commanded ON. The clutch PC solenoid 2 regulates the transmission fluid pressure to the 3-5-R clutch. The transmission fluid pressure (TFP) switch 1 Opens (high) under fluid pressure and closes (low) when no pressure is present. The transmission control module (TCM) calculates gear ratio based on data from the automatic transmission input speed sensor (ISS) and the output speed sensor (OSS). The TCM compares the known transmission gear ratio to a calculated gear ratio for each commanded gear.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • 3-5-R clutch is the primary on-coming clutch.
    • The commanded gear is Reverse.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

TFP Switch 1 = Low (No fluid pressure)

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

DTC P0736 is a Type A DTC.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTC P0736 is a Type A DTC.

Diagnostic Aids

When attempting to set transmission performance DTCs, observe the Freeze Frame and Failure Records to assist in duplicating the failure conditions. Ensure the transmission fluid level is correct and there are no leaks. If there are any other transmission DTCs set, diagnose those first.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Automatic Transmission Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Automatic Transmission Inline 16-Way Connector End View
    •  Automatic Transmission Internal Connector End Views
    •  Automatic Transmission Related Connector End Views

DTC Type Reference

    •  Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions
    •  Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List/Type

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Operate the vehicle to induce a shift from second to third gear while observing TFP Switch 1. Perform this action 2 times. The TFP Switch 1 should change states from Low to High.
  2. If the TFP Switch does not change states and no other DTCs set, replace the control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly.
    If any other DTCs set, diagnose that DTC first.
  3. Operate the vehicle to obtain sixth gear 2 times and then check for DTCs other than DTC P0736.
  4. If any other DTCs set, diagnose that DTC first.
    If no other DTC sets, continue on with diagnostics.
  5. Operate the vehicle by shifting from Park to Reverse, then while in reverse, operate the vehicle with the calculated throttle position greater than 8% for 5 seconds, perform this maneuver a minimum of 3 times.
  6. If the DTC P0736 resets, go to Component Testing.

Component Testing

  1. Perform the Line Pressure Check .
  2. Inspect the check ball 5 for possible sticking or damage.
  3. If you found a concern with this check ball, repair the concern.
  4. Inspect the shift select valve 3 for sticking or damage.
  5. If you found a concern with the shift select valve 3, repair or replace the valve or valve body.
  6. Inspect the low and reverse clutch assembly for wear or damage.
  7. If you found a low and reverse clutch assembly concern, repair or replace the low and reverse clutch assembly as necessary.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    • Control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly. Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, or programming.
    • Low and reverse clutch assembly replacement. Refer to Low and Reverse Clutch Overhaul in Unit Repair.
    • Lower valve body assembly. Refer to Control Valve Lower Body and Upper Body Replacement .
       ⇒Perform the valve body inspection procedure, refer to Control Valve Upper Body Assembly Cleaning and Inspection in Unit Repair.
       ⇒ If the inspection procedure indicates to replace the valve body, refer to Control Valve Lower Body and Upper Body Replacement .
    • Perform the Service Fast Learn Adapts .