Error code P0746 on Nissan Juke: causes, diagnosis and repair

Fault code P0746 on Nissan Juke - one of those mistakes that can cause panic even among experienced car owners. It is associated with the operation of the automatic transmission and can manifest itself either as jerks when shifting, or as a complete failure of the transmission to shift into higher gears. Unlike many other codes, P0746 does not always indicate a critical breakdown, but it cannot be ignored: prolonged ignoring can lead to expensive automatic transmission repairs.

In this article we will look at what exactly it means P0746 for Nissan Juke (including models with motors HR16DE And MR16DDT), which transmission components might be at fault, and how to diagnose it yourself, from checking the oil level to testing the solenoids. You will also find step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting, tips for choosing spare parts and answers to frequently asked questions from owners.

What does code P0746 mean on Nissan Juke?

Error P0746 stands for "Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off". Translated into Russian, this means that the transmission control unit (TCM) detected incorrect operation pressure solenoid "A" - one of the key elements of the automatic transmission hydraulic system. This solenoid is responsible for regulating oil pressure, which in turn controls the clutch of the friction discs and the operation of the torque converter.

On Nissan Juke (especially with box RE0F10A or RE0F10D) P0746 often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• 🔴 Sharp jerks when changing gears (especially from 1st to 2nd).
• 🔴The indicator lights up Check Engine or AT on the dashboard.
• 🔴 The transmission “freezes” in one gear (most often in 3rd or 4th).
• 🔴 Loss of acceleration dynamics, feeling of clutch “slipping.”

It is important to understand that P0746 - this is not a condemnation of the automatic transmission, but a signal of a possible malfunction in the hydraulic or electrical part. In 60% of cases, the problem is solved by replacing the solenoid or cleaning the valve body, but sometimes the torque converter itself or mechanical wear of the clutches is to blame.

The main causes of error code P0746

On Nissan Juke code P0746 may be caused by several factors. Below we have listed the most common causes, ranked by frequency of occurrence (from most likely to rare):

Reason	Probability (%)	Symptoms
Pressure solenoid "A" malfunction	45%	Jerks, error appears on cold start
Contaminated or old ATF oil	30%	Slipping, noise in the box
Problems with the valve body (clogged channels)	15%	The error appears after warming up
Torque converter malfunction	8%	Vibrations at idle, loss of power
Electrical problems (open circuit, contact oxidation)	2%	The error appears randomly

Pressure Solenoid "A" - the most vulnerable element. It can either get stuck in the open/closed position or start leaking oil due to worn seals. On Juke with a mileage of more than 100,000 km, solenoids often fail due to natural wear or the use of low-quality oil ATF.

The second most common reason is contaminated oil. In automatic transmission Nissan special liquid is used NS-2 or NS-3, which loses its properties over time. If the oil has not been changed for more than 60,000 km, it turns into a thick suspension that clogs the valve body channels and solenoids.

Diagnosing error P0746: step-by-step instructions

Before starting repairs, it is necessary to accurately determine the cause P0746. Below is a diagnostic algorithm that can be performed independently (if you have basic tools) or in a service.

1. Checking the level and condition of ATF oil

The first thing to do is check automatic transmission oil level. On Nissan Juke this is done through the inspection hole (on the box RE0F10A it is located on the right when looking in the direction of travel). The oil should be:

• 🔹 Clean (no metal shavings or black flakes).
• 🔹 Light red or pink color (dark oil indicates overheating).
• 🔹 No burning smell (a burnt smell indicates clutch slippage).

If the oil is dirty or its level is below normal, it is necessary to replace it (partially or completely) and reset the error. In 30% of cases this is enough to eliminate P0746.

2. Read additional errors

Code P0746 rarely appears alone. Using a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327) check for related errors:

• 🔧 P0730 - incorrect gear ratio (indicates problems with clutches).
• 🔧 P0740 — faulty torque converter locking.
• 🔧 P0776 — problem with pressure solenoid "B".

If together with P0746 There is P0740Most likely the torque converter is to blame. If present P0776 — the problem is in the valve body.

3. Check pressure solenoid "A"

To test the solenoid you will need:

1. Remove the automatic transmission pan and drain the oil.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector of the valve body.
3. Measure the resistance of the solenoid with a multimeter (standard for Nissan Juke — 10–15 Ohm).
4. Apply voltage to the solenoid 12 V and check if it works (you should hear a click).

Drain the oil from the automatic transmission|Remove the valve body and clean it of dirt|Check the solenoid resistance (10–15 ohms)|Apply 12 V and make sure it operates-->

If the solenoid does not click or its resistance is outside the normal range, it must be replaced. Original solenoid for Juke has an article number 31726-31X00 (for boxes RE0F10A/10D).

How to check the valve body without removing it?

If it is not possible to remove the hydraulic unit, you can try to wash it without disassembling it. To do this:

1. Drain the oil from the automatic transmission.

2. Fill in a special flushing fluid (for example, Liqui Moly ATF Reiniger).

3. Start the engine and let it idle for 5–10 minutes, switching the automatic transmission selector to all positions.

4. Drain the flush and fill with new oil.

This method helps in 20% of cases, but does not guarantee the removal of P0746 in case of serious blockages.

How to fix error code P0746: repair or replace?

Remedy P0746 depends on the cause of the malfunction. Below we will look at the most effective solutions for Nissan Juke.

1. Replacement of pressure solenoid "A"

If diagnostics show that the solenoid is at fault, it must be replaced. The process includes the following steps:

1. Drain the oil from the automatic transmission.
2. Remove the pan and hydraulic unit (Torx will be required T30 and hexagon 5 mm).
3. Remove the faulty solenoid (it is located in the valve body, usually marked with the letter “A”).
4. Install a new solenoid (part number 31726-31X00) and put everything back together in reverse order.
5. Add new oil NS-3 and reset the error using the scanner.

The cost of the original solenoid is approx. 3 500–5 000 ₽. Analogues (for example, from Aisin or Meyle) will cost less (2 000–3 000 ₽), but their resource may be lower.

2. Cleaning or replacing the valve body

If the solenoid is OK, but the error P0746 remains, the problem may be clogged valve body channels. In this case:

• 🛠️ The valve body is removed and washed in an ultrasonic bath (or manually using a carburetor cleaner).
• 🛠️ All channels are blown with compressed air.
• 🛠️ New sealing rings and automatic transmission filter are being installed.

If the valve body is severely worn (for example, there are scuffs on the spools), it will have to be replaced. The price of a new valve body for Juke - from 20 000 ₽, but at salvage yards you can find used options for 8 000–12 000 ₽.

3. Repair or replacement of the torque converter

If together with P0746 there is an error P0740, the torque converter is at fault. It can be:

• 🔄 Repair (replacement of friction lining and bearings).
• 🔄 Buy a restored (contract) torque converter.
• 🔄 Install a new one (the original costs 30 000–40 000 ₽).

On Nissan Juke with motor MR16DDT (1.6 turbo) torque converter fails more often due to increased loads. When replacing it, it is also recommended to update the oil in the automatic transmission and check the condition of the clutches.

Preventing error P0746 on Nissan Juke

To avoid reappearance P0746, follow these guidelines:

• 🔧 Change the automatic transmission oil every 60,000 km (or once every 4 years).
• 🔧 Use only original oil Nissan NS-2 or NS-3.
• 🔧 Avoid aggressive driving style (sharp starts and braking increase the load on the solenoids).
• 🔧 Check the oil level regularly (especially after long trips).

It is also useful to carry out once a year automatic transmission adaptation (reset adaptive settings). This can be done using diagnostic equipment or manually:

1. Disconnect the battery terminal for 10 minutes.
2. Plug it back in and start the engine.
3. Let the car idle for 5 minutes, alternately switching the automatic transmission selector to all positions.

This procedure helps clear “memorized” errors and improves smooth shifting.

Common mistakes when repairing P0746

Many owners Nissan Juke make mistakes that only make the problem worse. That's what can't do:

⚠️ Attention: Never use automatic transmission flushing fluids based on kerosene or diesel fuel. They destroy the rubber seals of the solenoids and can lead to complete failure of the valve body.

Another common mistake is replacing only the solenoid without cleaning the valve body. If the valve body channels are clogged, the new solenoid will quickly fail. Always clean the valve body when replacing solenoids!

Also don't ignore electrical errors. If the scanner indicates an open solenoid circuit, check:

• 🔌 Condition of the connector on the hydraulic unit (oxidation, broken contacts).
• 🔌 Wiring from the control unit TCM to the solenoids (often rubs against the box body).
• 🔌 Fuse F10 (10 A) in the fuse box (responsible for powering the solenoids).

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the solenoid the error P0746 disappeared, but there were jerks when switching, perhaps the new solenoid is incompatible with the firmware TCM. In this case, adaptation or replacement of the control unit is required.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive with P0746?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with this error leads to:

• 🔴 Accelerated wear of friction clutches.
• 🔴 I will overheat the oil and cause trouble in the hydraulic unit.
• 🔴 Complete failure of the automatic transmission (up to the need for major repairs).

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to the service center, but avoid sudden acceleration and towing.

How much does it cost to repair a P0746 at a service center?

The cost depends on the reason:

• 💰 Solenoid replacement: 5 000–8 000 ₽ (with work).
• 💰 Cleaning the hydraulic unit: 10 000–15 000 ₽.
• 💰 Replacing the torque converter: 25 000–40 000 ₽.
• 💰 Automatic transmission overhaul: from 50 000 ₽.

Do-it-yourself repairs (for example, replacing a solenoid) will cost 2–3 times less.

What kind of oil should I fill into the Nissan Juke automatic transmission after eliminating P0746?

For boxes RE0F10A/10D only suitable:

• 🛢️ Nissan NS-2 (article KE908-99932) - for models up to 2014.
• 🛢️ Nissan NS-3 (article KE909-99945) - for models after 2014.

Refill volume: 7.5–8.5 l (depending on the replacement method). Don't mix NS-2 And NS-3!

Could P0746 be caused by bad gas?

No, P0746 - this is a transmission error and is not related to fuel quality. However, bad gasoline can cause:

• 🔥 Detonation, which indirectly affects the load on the automatic transmission.
• 🔥 Throttle position sensor is dirty, resulting in incorrect signals TCM.

If the error appears after refueling, check the throttle sensor and reset the adaptations.

Where can I buy parts to repair P0746?

Recommended sources:

• 🛒 Official dealers Nissan (warranty for spare parts, but high price).
• 🛒 Online stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc, Emex (wide range of analogues).
• 🛒 Showdowns (for example, Bamper.by or Avito) - for used hydraulic units and torque converters.

When purchasing solenoids, check the compatibility according to VIN-car code!