P0740 Diagnostic and Repair Advice for 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan - Intermittent TCC Solenoid Circuit Issue
The check engine light activated while driving up a bridge. A friend scanned the vehicle and confirmed fault code P0740: Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid Circuit Open. I had scheduled an appointment with the dealership, but became ill before attending. A trusted mechanic advised that if the van is driving normally—no performance issues, no flashing lights—and the engine temperature and RPMs are stable, it may be safe to continue operating the vehicle temporarily. I recently drove to the airport, where a section of the route includes a 65mph zone. During this trip, the check engine light turned off. On my return journey, the light reappeared. Later that day, after aggressively pressing the accelerator, it disappeared again. The issue appears intermittent—sometimes resolving within hours, other times taking several days. There are no noticeable changes in fuel economy, RPMs, or engine temperature. The vehicle drives smoothly and reliably. I operate this van as a taxi and lease it to a taxi company; I am the only driver. The transmission was serviced approximately 3–4 months prior to the check engine light appearing. Given that the warranty expires in 18,000 miles (roughly 4–6 months), I’m concerned about costly dealership repairs if this is not actually a transmission failure. I'm seeking advice on whether this could be an intermittent wiring issue or solenoid fault rather than a major transmission problem. Can I avoid dealer service and instead pursue a more cost-effective solution? Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, it's recommended to visit the dealership first—verify your coverage details. The P0740 code may indicate an intermittent wiring issue in the TCC solenoid circuit, which could be resolved with a diagnostic check or electrical repair rather than full transmission replacement.