P0733: Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
The transmission is not producing the expected gear ratio in third gear, which usually means slipping.
What P0733 means
P0733 means the transmission computer measured the wrong ratio while in third gear. It compares input and output shaft speeds, and RepairPal explains that a larger than specified difference in a given gear often implies the transmission is slipping. In third gear this usually shows up as a flare on the 2-3 shift or a slip while cruising at city and suburban speeds. Low or burnt fluid is the first suspect. After that, shops look at the clutch pack that applies third, the shift and pressure control solenoids, valve body wear and pump output. A faulty input or output speed sensor can also create false ratio errors, which is why shops confirm sensor signals before condemning internal parts. KBB advises avoiding driving with gear ratio codes because transmission problems can get worse quickly. Diagnosis usually includes a scan of transmission data, line pressure testing and a road test to see exactly when the slip happens. The repair ranges from solenoids to a rebuild.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Slipping or flare when in or shifting into third gear
- Delayed or harsh shifts
- Engine revs rise without the car speeding up
- Transmission in limp mode, stuck in one gear
Most common causes
- Low or burnt transmission fluid
- Worn third gear clutch pack
- Faulty shift or pressure control solenoid
- Valve body problem
- Faulty speed sensor
- Torque converter or pump issue
What to check yourself first
Check fluid level and condition. Note whether the slip happens on the 2-3 shift or while cruising at moderate speeds. Avoid heavy loads and towing until it is fixed.
Typical fixes and what they cost
| Fix | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission fluid change | $294-$356 | Low or burnt fluid causes many transmission codes. Check the correct fluid type for your transmission. |
| Transmission diagnosis with a full scan | $125-$183 | A transmission scan reads the codes stored in the transmission computer, which a basic reader may miss. |
| Transmission filter and fluid service | $621-$785 | Useful if fluid is overdue or the filter is restricted. |
| Replace transmission (if internally damaged) | $6,238-$6,764 | If the third gear clutches are worn out. |
Typical US price ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. Your shop should confirm the cause with a diagnostic before replacing parts.
Related repair guides
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- Tacoma Transmission Hunting Gears or Shifting Hard? The Toyota Fixes by Year (2016-2025)
- GMC Sierra 1500 8-Speed Shudder or Harsh Shifts? The Fluid Flush Fix GM Recommends (and What It Costs)
- Ford Ranger Shifting Hard or Clunking? The 10-Speed Fix Ford Gives Dealers (2019-2023)
Related codes
- P0730 Incorrect Gear Ratio
- P0731 Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
- P0732 Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
- P0700 Transmission Control System (MIL Request)