What Is the P0773 Code?
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The P0773 OBD-II trouble code comes on when the transmission control module (TCM) detects an electric malfunction in the vehicle’s transmission system. The Shift Solenoid E circuit is responsible for regulating the flow of transmission fluid and, by extension, controlling gear ratios. As such, electrical issues within the circuit, be it a faulty solenoid, a malfunctioning TCM, or a wiring issue, can trigger the P0773 error code.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0773 Code?
The P0773 diagnostic trouble code can manifest itself through a variety of symptoms. The first and most conspicuous symptom is the check engine light, which indicates that the malfunction in the shift solenoid may indirectly affect the engine performance.
The main effect of a faulty shift solenoid E on the engine is a decrease in fuel economy. If the problem is very severe, the vehicle may enter limp mode, which significantly limits engine power and gear changes to prevent further damage to the transmission.
Since the P0773 code is a transmission code, a majority of the symptoms associated with it manifest in and around the transmission system. These include:
- The onset of a transmission warning lamp
- Harsh shifting
- Transmission slipping
- Erratic shifts, where the transmission takes longer than usual to shift gears or struggle to engage certain gears like reverse or park
In some cases, the transmission also overheats, potentially leading to complete transmission failure if not addressed.
Notably, not all vehicles with a P0773 code will exhibit all or even most of the above symptoms. As such, it is best to consult a reliable mechanic for deeper checks as soon as you suspect there’s a problem with your transmission.
What Are Some Causes of a P0773 Code?
The P0773 generic transmission code implies an electrical problem within the “E” shift solenoid circuit. The “E” solenoid is a vital transmission solenoid whose functions involve receiving electric signals from the TCM and controlling the flow of transmission fluid. It also controls the hydraulic pressure and works with other solenoids to facilitate smooth gear changes.
Since the “E” shift solenoid circuit consists of several electrical parts, it is susceptible to developing electrical malfunctions that may result in error code P0773. The most common culprits in this regard include:
- Faulty wiring problems, such as loose connectors in the solenoid
- Damage to the wires connecting the “E” shift circuit to the powertrain control unit
- A fault in the transmission control unit
- Dirty transmission fluid which often results from a dirty transmission filter.
- Low transmission fluid levels can also hinder the “E” solenoid’s operation
- A defective transmission valve body and corrosion from connectors.
It is worth noting that dirty transmission fluid and low fluid levels often cause a considerable strain on the transmission pump, which can cause it to break down.
Moreover, the error code P0773 may occur on its own, but sometimes, it does appear alongside other OBD-II codes if the solenoid malfunction is considerable enough. These include “P0772 Shift Solenoid E Stuck On,” “P0773 Shift Solenoid E,” and “P0770 Shift Solenoid E Malfunction.”
How Serious Is the P0773 Code?
The severity of a P0773 code can vary depending on the cause of the problem, your car’s transmission model, and how long the issue has occurred.
As with many car problems, a P0773 code may initially have a moderate severity, where the car remains drivable. With time, however, the underlying issue can worsen and escalate to a more severe level, affecting other components in the transmission system.
As a rule of thumb, the more symptoms you observe, the more serious the problem is. If you’re having plenty of engine stalls, binding issues, or intermittent limp mode, it is better to stop driving the vehicle altogether.
Can I Still Drive with a P0773 Code?
While the P0773 Code is typically an urgent matter, it will likely not make your car undrivable — at least not in the first few days. However, driving with the code still active is not a good idea as it can lead to further damage to the Solenoid circuit and its electrical connections. More damage means higher inspection costs.
Apart from the cost concerns, there’s also the safety aspect. The transmission problems triggered by the code, such as slipping and erratic shifting, can considerably impact your car’s responsiveness and control and increase the chances of a collision on the road. Moreover, it won’t be a pleasant experience if the vehicle happens to enter limp mode in the middle of your 500-mile road trip.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0773 Code?
It is not advisable to perform a P0773 diagnosis if you’re not a certified mechanic or don’t possess the requisite diagnostic tools. What makes the trouble code so easy to misdiagnose is the fact that it not only has multiple potential causes but also exhibits symptoms similar to other transmission problems.
To get to the root cause, extensive troubleshooting, ideally using a combination of an OBD-II scan tool and an up-to-date troubleshooting guide, is necessary. An experienced mechanic will also have a digital multimeter in hand just in case they need to do a more in-depth examination of the solenoid’s circuitry.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0773 Code?
If the diagnosis is accurate, fixing a P0773 error becomes a straightforward process. For instance, if the transmission fluid level is too low, you only need to top it up. Conversely, if the culprit is dirty fluid and/or a clogged transmission filter, a transmission flush followed by replacement of transmission fluid and filter will do.
In more severe levels, extensive repairs and component replacements are necessary. This may be the case where the solenoid itself is faulty and needs to be removed. Electrical problems like frayed wiring and faulty transmission pumps also require more than the basic tools and troubleshooting charts to solve.
Further, replacing the TCM is usually a labor-intensive process, often involving programming and calibration steps specific to the vehicle.
Need Additional Help with Your P0773 Code?
If you need any assistance with diagnosing or inspecting a P0773 code or any other diagnostic trouble code, use KBB.com to locate a service center near you and get the problem fixed in a timely and professional way.
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