P0731 on Chrysler: How to Diagnose & Fix
Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
2 Chrysler models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $300-$4,500 repair
P0731 on Chrysler by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Fifth Avenue uses the Chrysler A604 (41TE) fully electronic 4-speed transaxle, which was notorious for reliability issues in its early years. The solenoid pack and valve body suffer from design limitations that cause erratic shifting and limp mode. The transmission goes into "limp home" mode (locked in 2nd gear) as a protective measure when it detects solenoid or pressure errors. The Fifth Avenue's heavier curb weight compared to other A604-equipped vehicles accelerates wear.
Common Symptoms
- Limp mode — stuck in 2nd gear with check engine light
- Harsh engagement from Park to Drive or Reverse
- Delayed shifts with engine revving between gears
- No 4th gear overdrive
- Transmission temperature warning
How to Fix
Replace the solenoid pack and valve body separator plate with updated parts. Change the ATF+4 fluid every 30,000 miles — the A604 is extremely sensitive to fluid condition. If the transmission has been running in limp mode repeatedly, internal clutch damage is likely and a rebuild is needed. A TransGo TFOD-3 reprogramming kit can be installed during a rebuild to improve shift quality.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 41TE (A604 Ultradrive) four-speed automatic used behind the 3.3L and 3.8L V6 in 1996-2007 Town & Country vans is the single most-reported failure on the nameplate. Clutch material and worn friction debris circulate in the fluid, plug the small feed passages in the valve body and pump, and starve the planetary gearsets of lubrication. The result is a burned front/rear clutch pack or a shattered planetary carrier. Owners commonly report the failure preceded by a stuttering or repeated 1-2 shift, delayed forward/reverse engagement with a double bump, and limp-in (second gear only). Aggravating factors documented on the owner forums include use of generic ATF instead of Chrysler ATF+4, a missed 30k-mile fluid service, and a weak/AC-ripple-producing alternator or a bad output shaft speed sensor signal confusing the TCM. This is the 4-speed unit and is a separate story from the later 62TE 6-speed used from 2007 on.
Common Symptoms
- Repeated stutter or flare on the 1-2 shift
- Delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse with a hard bump
- Stuck in second gear (limp-in mode)
- Whine or growl that changes with road speed
- Burnt-smelling, dark ATF with clutch material in the pan
- Speedometer drops out along with the shift fault
How to Fix
There is no recall. Confirmed hard-part failure requires a rebuilt or remanufactured 41TE with an updated valve body and upgraded clutch/planetary components; a fluid-and-filter service alone will not save a unit that is already slipping. Preventively, forum consensus is a drain-and-fill with genuine ATF+4 every 30,000 miles (a pressure flush on a neglected high-mileage unit is often what pushes it over the edge), plus verifying charging-system ripple and the OSS/ISS speed sensor signals before condemning the transmission - electrical faults mimic mechanical failure on this unit.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0731 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0731 mean on a Chrysler?
P0731 stands for "Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio." This code means the Transmission/Powertrain Control Module detected an incorrect gear ratio in 1st gear. The module compares input (engine/turbine) speed to output shaft speed; when the car is commanded into 1st but the calculated ratio doesn't match the expected value, P0731 sets. This points to slipping, an incorrect shift, or a hydraulic/mechanical problem rather than just an electrical fault. You may feel slipping, harsh or delayed engagement, or the transmission may go into a limited 'limp' mode. On Chrysler it is documented across 2 models: Fifth Avenue, Town & Country.
What are the most common causes of P0731?
The most common causes of P0731 are: Low or degraded/burnt transmission fluid, Slipping clutch packs or worn friction components, Stuck or faulty shift solenoid affecting 1st gear, Internal hydraulic leak / valve body fault, Worn or failing torque converter, Faulty input or output speed sensor, Mechanical wear (planetary gears, bands) inside the transmission. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0731 on a Chrysler?
Published repair estimates on Chrysler range from $300 to $4,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0731 on a different make?
View P0731 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.