Error code P0746 on <em>Nissan Teana J32</em>: diagnosis and repair

Fault code P0746 on Nissan Teana J32 (2008–2013) - one of the most common problems associated with automatic transmission operation RE0F10A. This error indicates a problem with torque converter or the lock-up control system, which can result in jerking, loss of power and even complete transmission failure. Owners Teana They often encounter P0746 after 150–200 thousand km, but the reason is not always wear and tear - electronics, contaminated oil or mechanical damage may be to blame.

In this article we will look at what exactly it means P0746, how to properly diagnose it (including checking sensors and solenoids), and what steps to take for repair - from changing the automatic transmission oil to restoring the torque converter. We will pay special attention specifics of the RE0F10A box on Teana J32, where the error is often disguised as other codes (for example, P0730 or P0740). If you notice slippage during acceleration or the check light comes on, read on to avoid costly repairs.

What does code P0746 mean? Nissan Teana J32?

Error P0746 stands for «Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance/Stuck Off». In context Teana J32 this indicates a problem with torque converter lockup control solenoid (Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid) or mechanical components of the clutch itself. Box RE0F10Ainstalled on these vehicles is sensitive to oil quality and hydraulic condition, so P0746 is often accompanied by:

• 🔴 Jerks when changing gears (especially from 1st to 2nd).
• 🔴 Slipping during acceleration (the speed increases, but the car does not accelerate).
• 🔴 The Check Engine light comes on and the automatic transmission goes into emergency mode.
• 🔴 Deterioration in fuel efficiency (consumption increases by 10–15%).

It is important to understand that P0746 is not always the fault of the solenoid. On Teana J32 this code may appear due to:

• 🛢️ Contaminated or old oil in the automatic transmission (critical mileage without replacement - 80-100 thousand km).
• 🔧 Mechanical wear of torque converter clutches or bearings.
• 📶 Malfunction of the turbine wheel speed sensor (Input Speed Sensor).
• ⚡ Problems with wiring or automatic transmission control unit (TCM).

In practice, 60% of owners Teana J32 with P0746, the problem is solved by changing the automatic transmission oil and filter, but in 30% of cases the torque converter needs to be repaired. The remaining 10% comes from electronics. To accurately determine the cause, a comprehensive diagnosis is needed.

Reasons for error P0746

On Nissan Teana J32 code P0746 rarely occurs on its own - it is usually a consequence of prolonged use without maintenance or mechanical failures. Let's look at the main reasons in more detail.

1. Contaminated oil in the automatic transmission

Box RE0F10A extremely sensitive to the quality of transmission fluid. With a mileage of over 80 thousand km, the oil loses its properties, accumulates metal shavings and clogs:

• 🔧 Solenoids (including torque converter lock-up solenoid).
• 🔧 Hydraulic channels of the hydraulic unit.
• 🔧 Automatic transmission filter (if it has not been replaced).

The result is a drop in pressure in the lock control system, which causes P0746. The first step in diagnosis — checking the condition of the oil: if it is black or smells like burning, a complete replacement with flushing is required.

2. Lockup Solenoid (TCC Solenoid) malfunction

Solenoid TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) on Teana J32 located in the valve body and is responsible for the smooth activation of the torque converter lock. When it wears out or jams, the ECU records:

• 📉 No blocking signal (solenoid “stuck” in the open position).
• 📈 Pressure too high (solenoid stuck in closed position).

You can diagnose the problem using a scanner: force the solenoid to turn on through TCM should change the engine speed at idle. If there is no reaction, the solenoid needs to be replaced.

3. Mechanical wear of the torque converter

Torque converter on Teana J32 designed for 200–250 thousand km, but with aggressive driving or overheating it wears out earlier. Typical faults:

• 🔄 Wear of friction linings of the locking clutch.
• 🛠️ Destruction of turbine or pump wheel bearings.
• 💥 Cracks in the torque converter housing (lead to oil leakage).

With mechanical damage, P0746 is often accompanied by P0730 (incorrect gear ratio) or P0740 (general locking fault). Diagnostics requires removing the torque converter and disassembling it.

4. Problems with electrical and sensors

Less commonly, the cause of P0746 lies in:

• 📡 Sensor malfunctions Input Speed Sensor (code P0720).
• 🔌 Broken wiring between TCM and solenoid.
• 🖥️ Automatic transmission control unit firmware failure (relevant after incorrect chip tuning).

Check the circuits with a multimeter: the resistance of the TCC solenoid should be within 10–20 Ohm. Deviations indicate an open or short circuit.

How to check the TCC solenoid without removing the automatic transmission?

1. Connect a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431 or ELM327).

2. Go to menu Transmission → Solenoid Test.

3.Activate the solenoid TCC (usually designated as Solenoid E).

4. With the engine running, the speed should drop by 50–100 rpm when the lock is engaged. If there is no change, the solenoid is faulty.

Diagnosing error P0746: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P0746 on Nissan Teana J32, follow this algorithm. Let's start with simple checks and gradually move on to complex ones.

Step 1: Reading Error Codes

Use a scanner that supports the protocol OBD-II with advanced transmission diagnostics (e.g. Launch CReader or Autel MaxiCOM). Important:

• 🔍 Write down all codes, even if they seem unrelated to P0746 (for example, P0720 or P0841).
• 📊 Check parameters in real time: turbine wheel speed (Input RPM) and blocking state (TCC Status).

Step 2: Checking the automatic transmission oil

The condition of the oil is a key factor. On Teana J32:

1. Warm up the box to operating temperature (drive 10–15 km).
2. Place the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
3. Remove the automatic transmission dipstick (located next to the engine, marked with a yellow handle).
4. Evaluate the color and smell of the oil:
   • ✅ Normal: red or light brown, without burnt smell.
   • ❌ Critical: black, with metal shavings or burning smell.

If the oil is in poor condition, a complete replacement with flushing is required (volume for RE0F10A - 9–10 liters).

Check the oil level on the hot box|Purchase original oil Nissan Matic-S (or equivalent Idemitsu Type-M)|Buy a new automatic transmission filter (part number 31726-31X00)|Prepare a container for draining (at least 10 l)|Have a torque wrench on hand (torque for tightening the pan is 10 Nm)

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Step 3: TCC Solenoid Test

To test the lockout solenoid:

1. Connect the scanner and find the menu Actuator Test or Solenoid Test.
2. Select Solenoid TCC (Solenoid E).
3. Activate it with the engine running. If the solenoid is working:
   • The engine speed should drop by 50–100 rpm (the lock is engaged).
   • When the solenoid is turned off, the speed will return to its original value.

If there is no response, the solenoid is faulty. On Teana J32 replacing it requires removing the automatic transmission pan (the solenoid part number is 31397-31X00).

Step 4: Checking the Torque Converter

If the oil and solenoid are ok but P0746 remains, check the torque converter:

• 🔧 Visual inspection: remove the torque converter and check the turbine wheel play (allow up to 1 mm play).
• 🔧 Checking the lock: When rotating the turbine wheel manually, resistance should be felt (if the locking is working properly).
• 🔧 Diagnostics on the stand: during service, the torque converter is checked using special equipment under pressure.

On Teana J32 A common problem is wear of the friction linings of the locking clutch. Repairs cost 15–20 thousand rubles (depending on the region).

Step 5: Electrical Diagnostics

Check Solenoid Circuits TCC:

1. Remove the connector from the box (located on the automatic transmission housing next to the solenoids).
2. Measure the resistance between the solenoid contacts TCC (must be 10–20 Ohm).
3. Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (there should be 12 V on one of the contacts).

If the resistance approaches zero or infinity, the solenoid is faulty. No voltage indicates a broken wiring or a problem with TCM.

Cause P0746	Symptoms	Remedy	Repair cost (approx.)
Contaminated oil	Jerking, burning smell, black oil	Complete oil change + filter	5 000–8 000 ₽
Faulty TCC solenoid	No response to scanner test, error returns after reset	Replacing the solenoid (or valve body assembly)	3 000–10 000 ₽
Worn torque converter	Vibrations, slipping, metal shavings in oil	Torque converter repair or replacement	15 000–30 000 ₽
Problems with the Input Speed sensor	Floating speed code P0720	Replacing the sensor	2 000–4 000 ₽
TCM malfunction	Multiple automatic transmission errors, inappropriate transmission behavior	Reflashing or replacing the block	8 000–20 000 ₽

How to Troubleshoot P0746: Step-by-Step Solutions

Depending on the cause, repair methods vary from a simple oil change to a complete overhaul of the automatic transmission. Below are proven solutions for Teana J32.

1. Changing the automatic transmission oil and filter

If the oil is black or has a burnt smell:

1. Drain the old oil through the plug in the pan (drain volume - ~4 liters).
2. Remove the tray, clean it and the magnets from chips.
3. Replace the automatic transmission filter (part number 31726-31X00).
4. Install the pan onto the new O-ring (31397-31X02).
5. Fill with new oil Nissan Matic-S (or equivalent Idemitsu Type-M) through the dipstick.
6. Warm up the box and add oil to the level (between the marks HOT on the dipstick).

After replacement, reset the errors using the scanner and test the car. If P0746 disappears, the problem is solved. If not, move on to the next step.

2. Replacing the TCC solenoid

If the lock solenoid is faulty:

1. Remove the automatic transmission pan (as when changing the oil).
2. Unscrew the valve body (10 wrench bolts T30).
3. Remove the faulty solenoid (located under the mark E or TCC).
4. Install a new solenoid (part number 31397-31X00) and reassemble everything in reverse order.

After replacement, adapt the solenoids through the scanner (menu Transmission → Solenoid Learning).

3. Repair or replacement of the torque converter

If diagnostics show wear on the torque converter:

• 🔧 Repair: replacement of friction linings and bearings (cost ~15,000 ₽).
• 🔧 Replacement with a new one: original torque converter (article no. 31400-31X00) will cost 25–30 thousand rubles.
• 🔧 Replacement with contract: used torque converter from disassembly (5-10 thousand ₽, but there is a risk of repeated breakdown).

When replacing the torque converter, be sure to:

• 🔹 Change the oil in the automatic transmission.
• 🔹 Adapt the box through a scanner.

4. Checking and replacing the Input Speed sensor

If present along with P0746 P0720:

1. Locate the sensor on the automatic transmission housing (next to the solenoid connector).
2. Check the sensor resistance (should be 200–1000 Ohm).
3. In case of deviations, replace the sensor (part no. 32535-31X00).

5. TCM diagnostics and repair

If all mechanical components are OK, but the error remains:

• 📡 Check the control unit TCM for corrosion or damage.
• 📡 Reflash TCM (relevant after unsuccessful chip tuning).
• 📡 Replace the block (article 31300-31X00, cost ~20,000 ₽).

Prevention of error P0746 on Nissan Teana J32

To avoid reappearance P0746, follow these guidelines:

• 🔧 Regular oil changes: every 60–80 thousand km (even if the manufacturer indicates 100 thousand km).
• 🔧 Using original oil: only Nissan Matic-S or certified analogues (Idemitsu Type-M, Ravenol ATF JWS 3309).
• 🔧 Checking the oil level: once a month (especially when driving aggressively).
• 🔧 Avoid overheating the automatic transmission: Do not tow heavy trailers or keep your foot on the brake when stopping.
• 🔧 Diagnosis at the first symptoms: jerking, slipping or a burning smell is a reason to check the box.

On Teana J32 also recommended:

• 🔹 Once every 2 years, flush the automatic transmission cooling radiator (a clogged radiator leads to overheating of the oil).
• 🔹 When changing the oil, install a new filter (even if the old one “seems to be normal”).
• 🔹 Avoid sudden starts from a standstill (this accelerates the wear of the torque converter clutches).

Common mistakes when repairing P0746

Many owners Nissan Teana J32 make mistakes that lead to reoccurrence P0746 or worsening the problem. That's what can't do:

⚠️ Attention: Never reset P0746 without correcting the cause. This can lead to the box blocking in emergency mode and the need for a tow truck.

• 🚫 Ignore related codes: if together with P0746 there is P0720 or P0730, eliminate them first.
• 🚫 Save on oil: using cheap analogues or universal ATF fluids will accelerate the wear of the solenoids.
• 🚫 Do not adapt after repair: Without adjusting the solenoids, the box will not work correctly.
• 🚫 Delay in diagnostics: If you ignore P0746, the wear on the torque converter will increase and repairs will cost more.

Another common mistake is replacing only the TCC solenoid without checking the valve body. On Teana J32 Often all solenoids wear out at the same time, so it is better to replace them as a set.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the torque converter, be sure to check the condition of the flywheel and clutch basket (on models with RE0F10A they can become deformed when slipping).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about P0746 on Nissan Teana J32

Is it possible to drive with P0746?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with P0746 will result in:

• 🔥 Overheating of the automatic transmission (due to torque converter slippage).
• 💥 Accelerated wear of friction clutches and solenoids.
• 🚗 The transmission goes into emergency mode (limited to 3rd gear).

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to the service center, but no more than 200–300 km.

How much does it cost to repair P0746 on Teana J32?

The cost depends on the reason:

• 💰 Oil change + filter: 5,000–8,000 ₽.
• 💰 Replacement of the TCC solenoid: 3,000–10,000 ₽ (depending on the complexity of access).
• 💰 Repair of torque converter: 15,000–25,000 ₽.
• 💰 Replacement of torque converter: 25,000–40,000 ₽ (including labor).
• 💰 Diagnostics + TCM flashing: 5,000–15,000 ₽.

On average, owners Teana J32 spend from 5 to 20 thousand rubles to eliminate P0746.

Can P0746 be reset without repair?

Technically yes, but it makes no sense. The error will return after 10–50 km, since its cause has not been eliminated. Resetting the code only makes sense after a repair to check the result.

The exception is a false alarm due to a temporary sensor failure. In this case, the error will not appear again after 2-3 ignition on/off cycles.

What oil to pour into the Teana J32 automatic transmission with error P0746?

Only original Nissan Matic-S (article KE908-99932) or certified analogues:

• 🛢️ Idemitsu Type-M (article 30450-5ATF0).
• 🛢️ Ravenol ATF JWS 3309 (article 4014835755107).
• 🛢️ Motul Multi ATF (article 105777).

The volume for a complete replacement is 9–10 liters. Partial replacement (4–5 liters) is allowed only as a temporary measure.

What happens if P0746 is not repaired?

Consequences of ignoring the error:

1. 🔥 Automatic transmission overheating → destruction of clutches and bearings.
2. 💥